Red Hawks
Athletic Strategy
The Catalyst: Despite a rich tradition of competitive sports, the visual identity of Ripon Red Hawk Athletics lacked the raw energy and premium feel of an elite sports program. Prior team imagery relied heavily on standard, static headshots that failed to capture the true grit and competitive drive of the student-athletes. To bridge this gap, a complete athletic image strategy overhaul was initiated. The goal was clear: elevate the visual narrative to match the high caliber of professional athletic sports and evoke a sense of power, focus, and prestige.
The Strategy: Standard, flat headshots were replaced with intense, dynamic poses and serious, laser-focused game faces that capture the raw determination of the athletes. By pairing deep, dark backgrounds with dramatic, high-contrast lighting, this new art direction creates a powerful, sleek aesthetic. This elevated visual identity scales seamlessly across all marketing collateral and commands attention on large-scale environmental graphics throughout the athletic facilities.
Art Direction: Mackenzie Schmitt
Photographer: Robert Colletta