Our Jersey

It’s here. It’s beautiful. It’s ours. The Ottawa Black Bears official jersey was unveiled on July 25 and was an instant hit. With shades of deep red, shining gold, and sleek black, it’s not just the colours of the jersey that make it so eye-catching. The Black Bears’ logo sits proudly upon the front of the jersey, while a unique bear claw logo rests upon either shoulder. Of course, what has many people talking is the motif that wraps around both sleeves and the waist of the jersey. Along a red and gold band, a black chain of figures holding hands not only looks great, but also has a story to tell.

Black Bears forward Larson Sundown played an integral role in designing the jersey. It was his idea to incorporate the design along the arms and waist. When he was invited to collaborate, Sundown was eager to help.

“I was ecstatic,” spoke Sundown. “I thought it was really important, given the area we’re moving into, to highlight the Indigenous communities in the surrounding areas, such as the Akwesasne, the Kanasatake, the Kahnawake, and the Tyendinaga, but also make sure that we highlight the rich lacrosse community and rich history that is in Ottawa and eastern Ontario.”

Sundown himself, from Basom, New York, is a member of the Tonawanda Seneca people. For him, the jersey carries extra meaning.

“As an Indigenous lacrosse player, I have always wanted to see more symbolism from the Indigenous culture present in today’s game,” Sundown said. “I am so thankful to be a part of the jersey design process, it really hits home knowing I am a part of an organization wanting to represent and support Indigenous communities.”

More than just a jersey

For his contributions during the creation process, Sundown was given the opportunity to select a charity that resonated with him as part of the jersey’s charity initiative. Sundown selected the Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre, a charity that offers support and assistance to youth ages 13-21 to overcome substance abuse. The choice was one near to Sundown’s heart, as he just recently celebrated four years of sobriety.

The Black Bears are committed to donating $5 from the sale of every jersey to the Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre.

Fans who would like to purchase their very own Ottawa Black Bears jersey can do so HERE.

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