Tacoma Student Designs Winning Jersey

The Rainiers decision to adopt new logo and uniform designs in 2015 was intended to stand as more than just a rebrand - it was a recommitment. The new look was a fresh opportunity to recalibrate the team's pledge to provide the Tacoma community with the assets it needs for a bright future.

A central part of that refocus is providing area students with the necessary resources to continue their education beyond high school. This past offseason, the Rainiers hosted the club's first-ever Jersey Design Competition aimed at ensuring those assets are available.

Middle-schoolers attending Tacoma Public Schools were asked to create an entirely original jersey that incorporated elements from the Rainiers new logo set. The winning design would be made into an actual jersey worn by the team during Tacoma Public Schools Night on Saturday, May 30th.

Each of the game-worn jerseys will be available for purchase during an in-game silent auction held on the concourse. Proceeds from the auction will benefit Palmer Scholars - a non-profit based out of Pierce County that provides financial support to young men and women of color so they may receive a post-high school education.

After a comprehensive review of the many talented submissions, the Rainiers selected a design created by Gray Middle School student Tony Nguyen. To create a layout that combines mountain ranges, Tacoma's area code, and the Rainiers new "R" logo, Nguyen looked outside of baseball to find the inspiration for his design.

"I like football uniforms a lot, so I transformed that into a baseball uniform," explained Tony. "I want to continue my football career when I graduate, and if that doesn't work out, then I will design clothes for other sports teams."

Tony's winning design will give other Tacoma students the chance to pursue their dreams after graduation by receiving a secondary education that otherwise might not be available.

"The Rainiers commitment to our city's youth is truly inspiring," stated Josh Garcia, Deputy Superintendent for Tacoma Public Schools. "By aligning public, private and non-profit support, the Rainiers, Tacoma Public Schools and Palmer Scholars are removing barriers for college attainment for our youth. We are extremely fortunate to have such tremendous civic leadership in our community."

Tickets to the see Tony's winning jersey design for Tacoma Public Schools Night are available now. To purchase, please visit the Tacoma Rainiers online, stop by the Cheney Stadium Box Office, or call 1-800-645-3000.