The name “American International Yellow Jackets” refers to over 20 teams representing American International College located in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Meaning and history
The AIC Yellow Jackets, a sports team representing the American International College, were founded with the establishment of the college itself in 1885. This athletic program has developed over the years, embedding itself in the history and culture of American International College, located in Springfield, Massachusetts. The main achievements of the AIC Yellow Jackets are rooted in their ice hockey and rugby teams, which have gained significant recognition over the years. Particularly noteworthy is the men’s ice hockey team, which has made multiple appearances in the NCAA Tournament, showcasing the team’s competitive spirit and skill. Furthermore, their rugby team has also gained a reputation for its tenacity and skill, contributing to the overall sports legacy of the college.
In recent years, the AIC Yellow Jackets have continued to uphold their reputation as a competitive force in collegiate sports. Their continuous participation in various NCAA Division I and Division II events is a testament to their ongoing commitment to excellence in athletics. The AIC Yellow Jackets remain a symbol of pride and determination, reflecting the values and spirit of American International College.
What is AIC Yellow Jackets?
The AIC Yellow Jackets are the sports teams of American International College, participating in NCAA Division I and II events, known for their competitive ice hockey and rugby teams.
2001 – 2008
The badge, designed for the American International College Yellow Jackets in 2001, hasn’t changed much by today. It was a caricature of the team’s mascot, a funny yet aggressive Rex wasp, which brilliantly reflects the character and commitment of the club. The wasp was drawn in bold smooth lines of a dark yellow and black color palette, with white wings, gloves, and shoes, as well as the bold white sans-serif “AIC” lettering in the black jersey of Rex the Wasp.
2009 – Today
Since at least 2001, the American International Yellow Jackets logo has featured the wasp mascot, Rex. Rex has always been running, and its sting has been pretty visible. However, it hasn’t looked exactly the same. In 2009, the shape of the sting and the stripes was slightly modified.
As the result of a more recent update, the sting has been moved backward, while the wasp put on black shorts.
The choice of colors featured on the AIC Yellow Jackets logo – black, white, and gold – fits the wasp theme perfectly. The Logo Usage & Brand Standards Manual recommends using the shade of gold with the following coordinates: Pantone 1235, Hex FFCC33.
Hockey
A member of Atlantic Hockey, the men’s ice hockey team plays at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, Massachusetts. Its first season was in 1948/49. The team’s head coach is Eric Lang (as of 2019).
The hockey team has a separate logo, where the wasp mascot is depicted holding a hockey stick.
Football
The school began competing in football in the 1933-34 academic season. The team is proud of its NCAA appearances in 2008 and 2013.