Champion and UC/DAAP spirit wear launch Sept. 24
Bearcats Commons to transform into ‘Made You Look,’ pop-up showcase of student creativity
Event Information (passed)
The University of Cincinnati has partnered with athletic apparel brand Champion and UC’s College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP) to launch the Champion Student Made Collection, a new line of officially licensed Bearcats apparel.
The collection, designed by DAAP students, will make its debut at “Made You Look”, an immersive pop-up retail event that transforms Bearcats Commons into a showcase of student creativity.
DAAP design students gather to unbox the winning design for the Champion/Unrivaled Teamwear competition. Photo credit: Maylea Salmon
The event begins Wednesday, Sept. 24, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Tangeman University Center (third floor), 2766 UC MainStreet.
“Not only did this group of students design a collection that will go to market, but they worked directly with Champion staff — industry leaders in licensed sports apparel,” said Larry Gemmell, vice president/general manager, Champion/Unrivaled Teamwear. “We can’t wait to see this collection launch and celebrate the talented students in the UC DAAP program.”
This is a powerful example of how UC’s brand is more than a logo.
Martin Ludwig Associate vice president, UC trademark licensing and brand engagement
The collaboration began in spring 2025, when nine DAAP students participated through UC’s Experiential Exploration Program, a self-directed option within the university’s renowned cooperative education model.
Among the designers are second-year DAAP fashion students Ella Hoffman and Chris Caterino.
Ella Hoffman with her award winning design. Photo credit: Maylea Salmon
“When the opportunity was presented, I asked myself, ‘What would I want to wear that has the University of Cincinnati on it?’” said Hoffman, who won the Champion/Unrivaled collegiate apparel challenge and a $1,000 scholarship for her vintage-inspired sweatshirt design. “I looked at old UC uniforms for basketball and cheerleading in the ’70s and drew inspiration from letterman and varsity jackets with patches and logos throughout.” Hoffman credits the project with helping her secure a co-op designing cheer wear this fall.
Caterino added: “I didn’t expect to be designing spirit wear, but this project gave me a front-row seat to how the professional industry develops products — down to the very last detail.”
From the students’ nearly 100 design submissions, 20 designs were selected for the Champion Student Made Collection. The pieces will also be available for purchase at the UC Bookstore, operated by collegiate apparel retailer Follett.
Event highlights include a mini pop-up shop, live DJ, photo booth, prize giveaways, and snacks. On-site video crews will capture the day.
The activation also highlights real-world learning opportunities with Champion/Unrivaled Teamwear and UC’s co-op program, underscoring the university’s commitment to hands-on experience in design, marketing and merchandising.
DAAP team of Champion designers. Photo credit: Maylea Salmon
“This is a powerful example of how UC’s brand is more than a logo — it’s a platform for student creativity, industry collaboration and real-world opportunity,” said Marty Ludwig, associate vice president of trademark licensing and brand engagement at the University of Cincinnati.
“We’re proud to help turn classroom talent into marketplace impact.”
Featured photo at top: UC branded hoodie with design by DAAP student Ella Hoffman. Photo credit: Maylea Salmon
About Champion
Since 1919, Champion has offered a full line of innovative athletic apparel for men and women, including activewear, sweats, tees, sports bras, team uniforms, footwear and accessories. Today, as a lifestyle brand born from sport, Champion uses innovative design and state-of-the-art product testing to ensure uncompromised quality and innovative apparel for consumers. Beyond its products, the brand’s mission is to provide every Champion a canvas to live their true purpose; rooted in the belief that Champions are defined not by what they make, but by what they do with it. Champion wants to inspire others to not just win, but to Champion a better tomorrow, and is dedicated to supporting creators by giving them a platform to tell their stories, support their values, and communities.
Learn more at champion.com.
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