Toronto Maple Leafs Reveal New Logo to Celebrate Black Excellence
The Toronto Maple Leafs honoured black excellence during Black History Month by unveiling a new logo created by prominent artist Toji Nola.
February is traditionally celebrated as Black History Month due to the birthdays of both Abraham Lincoln as well as Frederick Douglass; two legendary figureheads who helped change the landscape of politics and culture.
Several teams pay homage to the tributes and triumphs during the month with special jerseys, patches, and ceremonies.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are the newest team to join in, and have unveiled a slick new logo to commemorate black excellence.
The logo itself presents as one of the older Maple Leafs logos with roots branching out from below the stem; a symbol of the roots that the black community have always held within the entire community.
The logo was created by graphic designer Toji Nola, who has created several logos for businesses and often uses sports in his designs.
Nola commented on the logo after revealing it on his Instagram:
BLACK EXCELLENCE!
Link in my bio!!!
Excited to finally share a project I've been working on for the past few months in collaboration with the @mapleleafs and MLSE. I had the incredible opportunity to redesign the iconic Leafs logo for their Celebrating Black Excellence game night!
It was an amazing experience working with such a historic organization and being part of an initiative that holds so much meaning. Truly an honor!
The players will be wearing the custom jerseys for their game day skate and practice after which the jerseys will be auctioned off! Hoodies and other merch with the logos will be available online @realsportsapparel and at the arena!
More to come-stay tuned!
#GOLEAFSGO!
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Told youI'll build my own wings to take flight!
The Toronto Maple Leafs have had several black NHL players play for them throughout their history including Grant Fuhr, Andre Deveaux, Wayne Simmonds, Jamal Mayers, and currently has Ryan Reaves playing for them as well.
The team is also announcing a doc-series commemorating Black Excellence during Black History Month.
Black NHL players have often been overlooked throughout history, but their presence is just as important to the fabric of the NHL.
Willie O'Ree is recognized as the first Black NHL player and carved out not only a legendary playing career, but paved the way for future players to make careers of their own.
Shoutout to Toji Nola for creating a gorgeous, yet impactful logo to celebrate the legacy of Black Excellence.
