Stripers Transform Into "Xolos de Gwinnett" for Four Games in 2019
LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. - As one of 72 teams participating in Minor League Baseball's "Copa de la Diversión" initiative, the Gwinnett Stripers announced today that they will transform into the "Xolos de Gwinnett" for four games in 2019.With Gwinnett County home to a thriving Hispanic community of nearly 200,000, the majority
LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. - As one of 72 teams participating in Minor League Baseball's "Copa de la Diversión" initiative, the Gwinnett Stripers announced today that they will transform into the "Xolos de Gwinnett" for four games in 2019.
With Gwinnett County home to a thriving Hispanic community of nearly 200,000, the majority of which are of Mexican descent, the team wanted to create an identity synonymous with an icon of Mexican culture. With input from Minor League Baseball and the Georgia Hispanic Chamber, the name "Xolos" was chosen, a tribute to the National Dog of Mexico.
Xolos (pronounced "SHO-lows"), short for Xoloitzcuintli, are also known as the Mexican hairless dog. The breed has existed for over 3,000 years, dating back to the Aztec empire when the dogs were revered as guardians and protectors. Modern-day Xolos are known for intelligence, loyalty, and athleticism, all important traits for a successful baseball team.
"We are proud to partner with Minor League Baseball and the Georgia Hispanic Chamber to launch the Xolos de Gwinnett," said Stripers Vice President and General Manager Adam English. "As the Xolos, we will not only embrace Mexican culture and traditions at Coolray Field, we will also strengthen existing partnerships within Gwinnett County's Hispanic community, and develop new and exciting ways to engage people of all Hispanic backgrounds."
The Stripers will take the field as the Xolos, complete with new logos, colors, and uniforms, for four Thursday night games in 2019: May 23 (7:05 p.m. vs. Charlotte), June 6 (7:05 p.m. vs. Durham), August 1 (7:05 p.m. vs. Norfolk), and August 15 (7:05 p.m. vs. Columbus).
The primary logo, designed by Brandiose, features a grey Xolo sinking its teeth into two crossed maracas styled in the identity's three main colors: neon red, sky blue, and gold. The colors were chosen to be a bright interpretation of the red, blue, and gold colors present in the logo of Gwinnett's parent club, the Atlanta Braves.
All three colors adorn the jerseys and caps that players will wear during the four games, as well as all materials connected to the Xolos. The team has also launched a web page (XolosDeGwinnett.com) and social channels (@XolosDeGwinnett) that will provide bilingual information on the Xolos.
Xolos de Gwinnett merchandise, including hats and apparel will be available at Bobby's Tackle Team Store at Coolray Field and online at GoStripers.com.