New jerseys make ‘bold statement’

Fans inside of the state of North Carolina know when fans refer to “State” they are of course referring to N.C . State University.

Now the football jerseys refer to the Wolfpack as State, as well.

On Tuesday afternoon, N.C . State athletics revealed the new football jersey that will  be worn in the fall. While the colors have remained the same, several new additions set this year’s model apart from the jerseys worn from 2008 to 2010.

One of the most distinct changes is the word State written in boldface across the top just above the numbers.  Athletics Director Deborah Yow said this is just the first step towards the athletics programs being identified as State on all uniforms.

“It’s a basic, bold statement:  State.  That’s who we are,” Yow said.

Redshirt senior defensive tackle J.R . Sweezy said the new lettering across the front gives the jersey a different feel that he enjoys.

“I really like that it says ‘State’ across the front,” Sweezy said. “It gives it a much more clean look. The jerseys also seem much brighter than last years. I just really like the look of it.”

Senior wide receiver T.J . Graham said that the State lettering meant that he would be able to set this year apart from any other when he looks back on his days with the Pack.

“I take a lot of pride in the State things,” Graham said. “It’s what we wear. After the game you look at pictures people have taken of you and you appreciate it. One day we’ll look back and [the uniform] will be your memory.

“Most games I don’t even remember half of it. I go back and look at the pictures and that refreshes my memory.”

The jersey, produced by Adidas, features the new TechFit style. The TechFit jerseys are 30 percent lighter and have ventilation areas which means players will have increased mobility and speed inside of the jerseys.

Graham said he noticed a clear difference when he put the jersey and pads on when he tried to reach over top of his head.

“In the old uniform, you couldn’t stick your hands above your head, this one right here, you can move anyway you want to,” Graham said as he stretched out in a receiving stance with his hands over his head. “This is nice. I like this. I enjoy this. I’m going to have a lot of fun this year wearing this uniform.”

Sweezy said the new jerseys are perfect for his position as well.

“As a defensive lineman, I’m moving all the time and need something that’s lightweight and has flexible material,” Sweezy said. “These are definitely the best jerseys we’ve had so far since I’ve been here.”

The jerseys have been hyped up for the last week with snippets of the State lettering and block s emblem being released on Twitter by N.C . State Athletics.

While the two players interviewed seemed to enjoy the jerseys, Sweezy said they had no input on what would appear on the jerseys.

“We didn’t really have a choice when it came to the jerseys,” Sweezy said. “But I really like the way the finished product now that I’m able to wear it. It’s almost like an Under Armour type feel to it.”

Sweezy said that putting on the jersey means a lot more than just wearing a new jersey, it means that football season is coming up soon.

“When I put this jersey on to take pictures I got goosebumps ,” Sweezy said. “It’s not just a jersey, it means that football is starting back up. It’s football man, I just really miss it.”