Mohawk College Athletics introduces new alternate Indigenous-designed logo

The Mohawk College Department of Athletics and Recreation, in collaboration with the college's Indigenous Education & Relations Office, has proudly introduced a new alternate Indigenous-designed logo for the Mountaineers.

The logo was created by Kyle Joedicke, a Hamilton-based Haudenosaunee artist whose Woodlands-style murals can be found in communities across Ontario. The Mountaineers officially unveiled the design during a ceremony held prior to the 2026 Ontario College Lacrosse Sixes Championship on Nov. 1.

"At Mohawk Athletics, our identity extends beyond the teams we compete for; it is also about the community we represent," said Matthew Ferreira, director of athletics and recreation. "The introduction of this Indigenous-designed logo represents an important step in recognizing and celebrating the Indigenous cultures and communities that are an integral part of our college. We are grateful to Kyle and the college's Indigenous team for their collaboration and contributions in bringing this design to life, and for helping us recognize the meaning and significance it carries within our community."

The design draws on the strength of mountain imagery, reflecting the determination, resilience and passion of student-athletes as they strive to achieve their potential through dedication and tireless training.

"In the creative process of developing this logo it was important for me to navigate the balance between the legacy of the Mountaineers design and the need to imbue relevant pieces of my Haudenosaunee culture," said Joedicke. "For an athlete, it is important to acknowledge the importance of these things and how each individual aspect affects the others in competitive play, training and the down time in between in order to reach their potential in a demanding, physical sport."

The rising sun behind the mountain motif represents the potential within every student and athlete to achieve their goals, whether pursuing future educational or career opportunities, advancing their athletic careers or developing as leaders within their professions and communities.

The colour blocks incorporated throughout the design feature gradients drawn from Mohawk College's school colours and represent the diversity of cultures and experiences found across campus. In Woodlands-style art, these colour blocks also symbolize the body's organs and their interconnectedness, reflecting how each contributes to the strength and success of the whole. Within the colour blocks, finer details known as spirit lines illustrate the movement and flow of energy and spirit throughout the body.

"The initiative to bring together an Indigenous Mountaineers logo was made possible through a collaborative effort, commitment and shared vision," said Amanda White, director of the Indigenous Education and Relations Office. "It took conversations, listening, learning, trust and a willingness to work together to bring this vision to life. In the creation of this logo, we recognize that this is an important step forward – one that we hope will continue to grow and create opportunities for greater understanding as we move forward."

Mohawk Athletics will now begin developing alternate jerseys featuring the Indigenous-designed logo for all 10 high-performance varsity teams. The first jerseys are scheduled to debut with the men's basketball team during the 2027 Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) Men's Basketball National Championship.