The American Athletic Conference has made a bold move by rebranding itself as the “American Conference.” Along with the new name, they’ve introduced their first mascot, “Soar,” an eagle that will be a community figure and ambassador.
The change aims to reduce confusion with similarly named organizations, such as the ACC. Tim Pernetti, the conference commissioner, expressed that the rebrand reflects the values of their colleges—spaces dedicated to serious academics and competitive athletics. According to Pernetti, “A brand is more than a name. It’s about who we are.”
The new name gained popularity among fans and the media. The aim was to create a clearer and more modern identity. They engaged with their community to develop this direction. This focus came from a desire to foster a strong sense of identity.
The slogan “Built to Rise” connects to their new initiative, RISE (Revenue, Innovation, Sports, and Entertainment), which aims to enhance the conference’s commercial and innovative capabilities. Soar, the eagle mascot, will participate in reading programs, volunteer efforts, and charity work under the “Soar to Serve” initiative. One unique feature about Soar is that it will be the first live and animated mascot for a collegiate conference, possibly appearing in video games, merchandise, and promotional campaigns.
In terms of performance, the American Conference is making strides too. Last season, eight of its teams went to bowl games, finishing with a 6-2 postseason record. They were among five leagues that had at least three teams finish with 10 or more wins, showcasing their competitiveness.
The rebranding is a strategic move to set the American Conference apart in a saturated collegiate landscape. Researchers suggest that organizations that adapt their branding to resonate with their community often see improved engagement and loyalty. As Pernetti noted, this modernization aims for clarity and momentum, driving the conference into the future.
As college sports evolve, how leagues present themselves becomes increasingly vital. Now, with a clearer identity and community focus, the American Conference is ready to soar to new heights.
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