Central Michigan is bringing more than its trademark maroon and gold onto the football field this season.
The Chippewas are honoring the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe through a special helmet design featuring bumper decals inspired by the Seven Grandfather Teachings. The thoughtful details recognize the strong relationship between Central Michigan Football and the tribe, whose reservation is located near the university’s Mount Pleasant campus.
Each helmet features one of seven unique icons on the front bumper, with the corresponding teaching displayed on the back bumper. Some helmets feature the teachings in English, while others use Anishinaabemowin, celebrating the language and cultural heritage of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe.
The Seven Grandfather Teachings represented throughout the collection are: Love, Wisdom, Truth, Respect, Humility, Honesty, and Bravery
The design gives each player a specific value to carry onto the field, turning the helmet decals into more than just a visual detail. They serve as a reminder of the cultural teachings and principles connected to the community Central Michigan is representing.
The partnership reflects the ongoing connection between Central Michigan Football and the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe. By incorporating the Seven Grandfather Teachings into the team’s equipment, the Chippewas are using the football field to celebrate tribal heritage while highlighting values that extend well beyond the game.
From the unique front bumper symbols to the bilingual back bumper details, Central Michigan’s helmets offer a meaningful example of how football equipment can tell a larger story. These are not simply special-edition decals, they represent love, wisdom, truth, respect, humility, honesty, and bravery, all while honoring the community surrounding the university.
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