The Manitoba Bisons are the varsity athletic teams of the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg, Canada. In September 2025, the university unveiled a refreshed visual identity for the Bisons, replacing a logo that had served the program for more than two decades. The new identity was introduced under the banner “One Herd” and was adopted by all student-athletes beginning in the 2025-2026 season. [1]
Design and History
The centerpiece of the refreshed identity is a new forward-facing bison logo. The mark retains the school’s traditional brown and gold colour scheme while adding blue elements to align with the University of Manitoba’s primary colour palette and ensure visual cohesion with the broader university brand. [1] [2] The logo depicts a forward-facing bison, outlined in brown and coloured with gold, white, and blue. [3]
The refresh process began in 2024 with consultations across a wide range of stakeholders, including student-athletes, coaches, volunteers, parents, Recreation Services members, members of the Indigenous community, and others. Input was gathered through focus groups, a quantitative survey, and a brand audit. [1] The university’s official project page describes the initiative as an effort to explore the family of brands that include Bison Sports, Mini U Programs, Junior Bisons, and Recreation Services to more closely align them with the current UM brand. The central university brand had undergone a refresh in 2019, while the Bison Sports sub-brand had last been refreshed in 2001. [4]
The university unveiled the refreshed Bison Sports logo on September 2, 2025, at the 2025 student Pep Rally. [4] Junior Bisons teams and competitive recreation club teams also received updated logos that integrate the forward-facing bison head. [1]
Meaning and Symbolism
According to the University of Manitoba, the new forward-facing bison symbolizes strength and determination, while the return to true brown and gold honours the past and unites all eras under the “One Herd” concept. [1] The university describes brown and gold as deeply rooted in the Bisons’ identity, representing decades of achievements and traditions. Brown is said to embrace the spirit of the core symbol, strength, determination and leadership, while gold symbolizes the pursuit of excellence, energy and achievement. [1]
Typography and Design
The refreshed identity includes a custom sports serif typeface inspired by bison hooves and horns. The university describes the overall design as featuring clean lines, vibrant tones, and dynamic design elements intended to position the Bisons as confident and cohesive. [1]
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