The UTEP Miners are donning more than just their game-day best with the launch of their "Sun City Collection," an apparel line that not only outfits fans in team pride but also serves as a tribute to the cultural tapestry of El Paso. Introducing this range, UTEP Athletics pairs up with the Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC) to roll out items that are immediately available for purchase at the UTEP Bookstore, both onsite and online, marking a new chapter in fan gear as they gear up for the 2025-26 athletic year, according to UTEP Miners.
Emphasizing local flavor, the "Sun City Collection" weaves the city's heritage into its designs; UTEP Vice President and Director of Athletics Jim Senter hailed CLC for their creative efforts and is "excited to unveil the 'Sun City' line, showcasing our amazing community," according to UTEP Miners. The line includes a variety of merchandise options, among them polos, hoodies, and even home decor like mugs and pennants that are set to capture the essence of El Paso, some fans are already eyeing the trendy t-shirts and caps which fly off the shelves, featuring aesthetically pleasing graphics that combine a "modernized Chicano-inspired script" with emblems that echo the mountainous skyline prevalent in the area.
Phil Kruzan, CLC Senior Graphic Designer, elaborated on the design process, highlighting an approach that taps deeply into local sentiment: "The designs feature two iconic elements: a modernized Chicano-inspired script and a sunset cresting over mountains formed from UTEP's pickaxe, with sun rays drawn from the El Paso city flag," as per UTEP Miners. The apparel uniquely captures the spirit of El Paso, transcending the boundaries of mere collegiate attire to something the city can embrace as its own. Xochitl Meyer, UTEP Bookstore Manager, echoed the excitement by mentioning how "The Sun City line, developed in partnership with CLC and UTEP Athletics, celebrates not only UTEP, but the heritage and history of El Paso as well."
