Kodiaks launch new Indigenous jerseys

Sept. 27, 2023 – The Lethbridge College Kodiaks will be unveiling brand new, Indigenous jerseys as part of Truth and Reconciliation Week activities.

Just over a year ago, the Kodiaks revealed a new Indigenous logo, gym floor, and name ‘Aikowania,’ which refers to body awareness and movement – the strength, stamina and sharp mind needed to be able to spring into action at a moment’s notice. The college recently won the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) Innovation award for its “We are Aikowania” video and facility reconciliation initiative.

“The honor to be blessed by the elders with an Indigenous name and symbol is incredible and something everyone associated with Kodiaks Athletics and the college is very proud of,” says Todd Caughlin, Athletics and Recreation Services Director. “We are able to incorporate these gifts onto our jerseys as another small step in helping educate our community to the history of the Indigenous peoples and the land we live on.”

Lethbridge College Indigenous Services manager, Lowell Yellowhorn, will explain the meaning and significance of the symbols. There will be information cards handed out to spectators of the event. This will be followed by a brief explanation of how the Kodiaks jerseys came to be. Student-athletes will be modeling the new Indigenous jerseys for everyone to see.

The Indigenous jerseys will only be worn on special occasions. The first time the Kodiaks will be wearing the new set of jerseys is Saturday Sept. 30 on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Cross-country and soccer teams will be wearing them in Lethbridge during their events.

Media are welcome to attend the Indigenous jersey launch for video/photos and interviews.

When: 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 29.

Where: Lethbridge College campus, front lawn area by the tipi (weather permitting).

RSVP: Please RSVP to Lexi Barclay if you are planning to attend.