LARAMIE — A new era of Wyoming Cowboys football is dawning, and with it comes a refreshed look for the team. Head Coach Jay Sawvel, who took the reins last December, has already made his mark by introducing updated uniforms, just three practices into spring camp. This move signals a subtle shift from the traditional approach of former coach Craig Bohl, who favored a more classic aesthetic during his tenure.
Sawvel addressed the speculation about uniform changes early in his coaching appointment, quipping about avoiding “space invader” designs and affirming the commitment to the university’s brown and gold colors. However, he also hinted at a willingness to make some refinements, and he has now delivered on that promise.
The unveiling occurred in front of the team, with Sawvel presenting a large poster showcasing the new uniform combination. He described it as a “little refinement” to the gold jerseys that Wyoming has sported for home openers in recent seasons, including their appearances at the Arizona Bowl. The key addition is the return of brown pants, a feature not seen since the Dave Christensen era.
The reaction from the players was enthusiastic, filled with “oohs” and “aahs.” Sawvel playfully gauged their approval, asking, “All in favor of this look, say ‘I’,” which was met with a resounding affirmative and raised hands. He followed this with a call to action, “… Do our part, do our job, one day at a time,” linking the visual update to their on-field performance.
Under Craig Bohl, tradition was paramount. He famously disallowed players from wearing the number 1 jersey, emphasizing team unity over individual recognition. For a decade, the Cowboys primarily wore brown jerseys with gold pants at home and white jerseys for away games. While Bohl did introduce gold alternate jerseys before the 2021 season opener against Montana State, he was staunchly against names on the back of jerseys, promoting the concept of playing for the team emblem on the front.
Sawvel, while initially echoing Bohl’s stance on names and jersey numbers zero and one, has indicated a more flexible approach. He mentioned the possibility of a white-on-white uniform combination in the future and has now demonstrated his openness to updating the gold alternates. This willingness to evolve is a clear departure from the Bohl era’s strict adherence to tradition.
Initial reactions to the new Wyoming Football Uniforms have been largely positive. The return of brown pants has been a particularly well-received element, evoking a sense of nostalgia for some fans. The design details, such as the snow-capped mountains with Steamboat imagery on the sleeves and the state flag on the collar, add unique Wyoming touches that resonate with local pride. While some might prefer a bolder “Wyoming” script across the front, the overall aesthetic is considered a strong and modern update.
The player excitement surrounding the uniform reveal is palpable. The video of the unveiling captures genuine enthusiasm, highlighting Sawvel’s player-centric approach. In an era increasingly focused on player branding and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities, this attention to player preferences can be a significant factor in team morale and recruitment. Adding names to the back of jerseys, a topic of frequent fan requests, could be a logical next step, further amplifying player recognition and individual brand building within the program.
These Wyoming football uniforms represent more than just a change in attire; they symbolize a transition into a new chapter for the program under Jay Sawvel. Balancing respect for tradition with a willingness to modernize, these new uniforms aim to energize players and fans alike as the Cowboys embark on the upcoming season. The subtle yet impactful changes reflect a program looking to build on its heritage while embracing a fresh and exciting future.
