University of Utah Football Honors Polynesian Culture with Special Helmets

The University of Utah‘s football team will be paying tribute to Polynesian culture in their program this Saturday. Facing off against Iowa State in their final home game of the season, the team is set to wear their latest edition of hand-painted helmets, symbolizing a deep cultural connection and historic significance.

The newly revealed helmets prominently feature traditional Hawaiian tattoo art, a design that underscores strength and unity inherent in Polynesian culture. Painted in shades of red and black, the helmet’s right side displays Utah‘s interlocking ‘U’ logo, while the front bumper reads «MUSS,» referring to the «Mighty Utah Student Section,» known for its enthusiastic support during games.

However, the significant highlight of this year’s helmet is the depiction on the left side, which includes the words «Malama Lahaina» set against an outline of Maui, Hawaii. Below, a representation of Lahaina’s historic Front Street is depicted. This artistic choice serves as a reminder of the devastating fires in 2023 on the Hawaiian island, which resulted in significant loss of life and property.

The term «Malama,» meaning «to take care of and nurture,» reflects a message of support for the ongoing recovery efforts following the disaster in Lahaina. This thematic helmet continues Utah’s tradition of unique hand-painted helmets, a practice they commenced in 2016, highlighting various themes each season barring the COVID-shortened 2020 period.

This year’s helmet is designed by Fred Frost, a renowned Samoan tattoo artist, with the painting executed by Armando Villarreal. The design amalgamates elements from various Polynesian islands including Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, and Hawaii, aiming to represent the cultural diversity within the team’s program.

Utah football’s connection to Polynesian culture is profound, with numerous Polynesian athletes and coaches having passed through the program. The state of Utah hosts a significant Polynesian community, with a notable portion of the Tongan population in the United States residing in the region.

The helmets will debut paired with the team’s block throwback uniform set, adding to the visual impact during Saturday’s game broadcast live on FOX. Utah seeks to honor these cultural roots and provide support to those affected by past tragedies through this symbolic gesture.