The Troy Trojans football program represents Troy University in Troy, Alabama. The program started in 1909 and has been going full steam ever since. Currently Troy plays at the NCAA Division I FBS level of the college gridiron in the Sunbelt Conference but it wasn't until 2001 that they left Division I-AA football. Even with that, they were only two-decades removed from playing NCAA Division II, so their climb has be steady and abrupt seeing success at whatever level they played at. Troy has won 21 conference championships, with 6 in the Sun Belt Conference. The program won the 1968 NAIA National Championship against Texas A&I (now Texas A&M-Kingsville). Troy beat North Dakota State in 1984 to win their first Division II national title. They won their second Division II national title in 1987 after defeating Portland State. Home games of the Trojans are played in Veterans Memorial Stadium. The stars that came out of this program were DeMarcus Ware, Osi Umenyiora, Lawrence Tynes, Thomas Olmsted, Leodis McKelvin, Bryan Willis, Jordan Chunn,Marcus Jones, Phil Steele,Carlton Martial,Dell Pettus, Cameron Kaye, and Javon Solomon.
Troy Trojans
COLLEGE FOOTBALL PROGRAMS: The History of the Troy Trojans Football Program
The 1922 Rose Bowl
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Dive into the Depths of College Football
Take a deep dive into the history and origins of the top gridiron teams and programs at the collegiate level. We celebrate the game of American football right from its roots. The concept started with youngsters of different schools competing against each other and the game at that level still thrives.
College football – a tapestry woven from roaring stadiums, electrifying plays, and passionate rivalries. But beyond the spectacle, lies the beating heart of the sport: the college football programs themselves. Each one, a unique ecosystem of tradition, strategy, and vibrant personalities, shaping the future of the game and inspiring generations of fans. In this series, we'll delve deep into these programs, exploring their storied histories, iconic figures, and the intricate dance of coaching philosophies and player development that shapes their triumphs and challenges. So, grab your jersey, settle in, and prepare to be swept away by the captivating world of college football programs, where legends are forged, dynasties built, and every Saturday becomes a battleground for gridiron glory!
Troy Trojans Gridiron Traditions and History
Forget the sprawling landscapes and crimson hues of traditional college football powerhouses. In the heart of Alabama, amidst rolling hills and vibrant sunsets, rises a different kind of Trojan kingdom: Troy University. Here, nestled amongst oak trees and echoes of marching bands, a football program with relentless spirit and explosive talent is writing its own epic saga.
The Troy Trojans, once underdogs fighting for recognition, have stormed onto the national stage, leaving a trail of upsets and triumphs in their wake. From Sun Belt dominance to thrilling victories against established giants, their story is one of resilience, talent, and a never-say-die attitude that embodies the Trojan spirit.
So, pull up a seat, grab some gumbo, and prepare to be swept away by the tale of the Trojan Trojans. We'll delve into their gridiron battles, celebrate their iconic players, and explore the unique culture that fuels their drive for glory. Get ready for a journey beyond the plains, where every roar of the crowd echoes the promise of another thrilling chapter in the ever-evolving saga of Troy football.
The Troy Trojans, once underdogs fighting for recognition, have stormed onto the national stage, leaving a trail of upsets and triumphs in their wake. From Sun Belt dominance to thrilling victories against established giants, their story is one of resilience, talent, and a never-say-die attitude that embodies the Trojan spirit.
So, pull up a seat, grab some gumbo, and prepare to be swept away by the tale of the Trojan Trojans. We'll delve into their gridiron battles, celebrate their iconic players, and explore the unique culture that fuels their drive for glory. Get ready for a journey beyond the plains, where every roar of the crowd echoes the promise of another thrilling chapter in the ever-evolving saga of Troy football.
Troy Trojans Football as Told By Troy University Athletics
Want to know more about Troy football? Then I might suggest you go to the source, the official Troy Trojans Football Page from the Troy University Athletics.
The site is filled with the latest news scores and upcoming events including games. This is one Trojan horse you will want to bring on in and stay up to date with all of the Troy Football information.
The site is filled with the latest news scores and upcoming events including games. This is one Trojan horse you will want to bring on in and stay up to date with all of the Troy Football information.
Major Events in Troy Trojans Football History
1909 - Troy begins playing football with Vergil Parks McKinley serving as the first head coach. The team faced a variety of opponents in the early years, from community teams and high schools to universities. 1910 - The Association constructed an athletic field on the north side of the old college campus. Prior to this field, most “home” games were played at the old Orion Street playing field. Dan Herren served as head coach. 1911 - George Penton takes over as head coach and leads Troy to an — issuu.com
Football in the South is important to a vast majority. In Georgia besides the Bulldogs and Yellow Jackets there is a different kind of Trojan warrior that stands proud. In Troy, Alabama, amidst rolling fields and Southern charm, resides a football program with a history as gritty and determined as the Trojans themselves. From humble beginnings on a dusty campus field to their recent ascension as Sun Belt champions, the Troy Trojans have defied expectations, weathered storms, and carved their own path through the gridiron landscape. This is their story, a saga of underdog victories, larger-than-life characters, and a never-say-die spirit that embodies the heart of a Troy Trojan. So, pull up a rocking chair on the porch, sip sweet tea, and prepare to hear the echoes of cheers and rattle of pads as we delve into the captivating tale of the Trojans, a team that proves size isn't everything when heart and grit pave the way to glory.
Early Years (1909-1945):
-Intermittent play due to various factors like low participation and the World War.
-Coach George Penton led an undefeated season in 1911-12.
-Coach Albert Elmore changed the team name to "Red Wave" and enjoyed moderate success.
-Coach Fred McCollum achieved back-to-back winning seasons.
-Coach William Clipson's tenure included a single strong season.
Modern Era (1946-Present):
-Continuous play since 1946.
-Transitioned to Division I-A in 2001 and joined the Sun Belt Conference in 2004.
-Played in their first bowl game in 2004 but lost.
Top Games in Troy Trojans Football History
Forget what that American-born English playwright said about April being the cruelest month. For college sports fans, August is pretty cruel, too. — today.troy.edu
Despite not boasting national championships, the Troy Trojans football program has carved its unique path in college football history. Their journey is punctuated by stunning upsets, dramatic victories, and games that etched themselves into the hearts of loyal Trojans fans. Let's delve into some of the most significant games that shaped the identity of the Troy Trojans:
1. 1999 Division II National Championship Game: After years of dominance in the FCS (formerly I-AA) level, Troy finally reached the pinnacle, defeating Montana 23-16 to claim their first national championship. This historic victory solidified their place as FCS giants and fueled even greater aspirations.
2. 2000 Sun Belt Conference Championship Game: In their inaugural season in the Sun Belt Conference, the Trojans faced off against Arkansas State for the title. A last-minute field goal by Jarret Lee secured a 24-21 victory, marking the program's first conference championship at the FBS level and proving their immediate competitiveness.
3. 2004 Victory over LSU: On the road at Death Valley, the Trojans shocked the college football world by upending the mighty LSU Tigers 27-24. This upset victory, led by a dazzling performance from quarterback Troy Smith, signaled Troy's arrival on the national stage and sent shockwaves through the SEC.
4. 2006 New Orleans Bowl: After another dominant Sun Belt season, Troy earned its first bowl bid, facing Rice in the New Orleans Bowl. A 41-17 thrashing marked their first bowl victory, a significant milestone in their ascent to higher levels of college football.
5. 2017 New Orleans Bowl: A decade after their first bowl win, the Trojans returned to the New Orleans Bowl, this time facing Ohio. In a thrilling back-and-forth battle, Troy emerged victorious 48-41, showcasing their offensive prowess and resilient spirit on a national stage.
6. 2023 Sun Belt Championship Game: After a season of thrilling performances and conference dominance, the Trojans faced Louisiana for the Sun Belt title. A gritty defensive effort propelled them to a 10-7 victory, reaffirming their status as a force to be reckoned with in the conference.
A Football Helmet History Odyssey
The Troy Trojans football program may be young, established in 1909, but their helmet design journey packs a punch. It's a story of bold choices, subtle evolutions, and a constant reminder of Trojan pride. Buckle up for a tour of the gridiron headgear:
The Interlocking Era (1967-1971):
-TS Takeover: In 1967 the first official helmet logo arrived: a bold, interlocking "TS" representing Troy State University. This design stayed strong for several years, becoming synonymous with the Trojans' early identity.
Stripes and Experimentation (1972-1980s):
-Stripe Parade: The 1970s saw the introduction of the classic white-black-white tri-stripe pattern, adding a dynamic touch to the maroon base. With occasional variations in stripe widths and placement, this design remained a mainstay for several decades.
-Flying T: A short-lived experiment in 1979 featured a stylized "T" in motion on the maroon helmet, resembling a bird in flight. Though not enduring, it showcased the Trojans' willingness to explore new visual territories.
Modern Refinement (1990s-Present):
-Chrome Touch: The 1990s brought a touch of modernity with chrome helmet decals and facemasks. This sleek look added a polished edge while retaining the core maroon and white color scheme.
-Back to Basics: After some experimentation, the early 2000s saw a return to the classic simplicity of the interlocking "TS" on the maroon base. This design, with subtle tweaks like contrasting helmet shades, has remained the primary helmet for the past two decades.
The Interlocking Era (1967-1971):
-TS Takeover: In 1967 the first official helmet logo arrived: a bold, interlocking "TS" representing Troy State University. This design stayed strong for several years, becoming synonymous with the Trojans' early identity.
Stripes and Experimentation (1972-1980s):
-Stripe Parade: The 1970s saw the introduction of the classic white-black-white tri-stripe pattern, adding a dynamic touch to the maroon base. With occasional variations in stripe widths and placement, this design remained a mainstay for several decades.
-Flying T: A short-lived experiment in 1979 featured a stylized "T" in motion on the maroon helmet, resembling a bird in flight. Though not enduring, it showcased the Trojans' willingness to explore new visual territories.
Modern Refinement (1990s-Present):
-Chrome Touch: The 1990s brought a touch of modernity with chrome helmet decals and facemasks. This sleek look added a polished edge while retaining the core maroon and white color scheme.
-Back to Basics: After some experimentation, the early 2000s saw a return to the classic simplicity of the interlocking "TS" on the maroon base. This design, with subtle tweaks like contrasting helmet shades, has remained the primary helmet for the past two decades.
Trojans Logo Evolution
Troy Trojans Logo PNG The athletic logo of Troy University in Troy, Alabama, is unique and recognizable. At the same time, it looks pretty simple. Meaning and history 1992 - 1999 The first logo by Trojans was an image of a knight helmet. It had a black comb and a black-and-white visor. The rest part — 1000logos.net
The Troy Trojans logo, though relatively young compared to some college athletics programs, boasts a fascinating history intertwined with the team's identity and evolution. Here's a condensed journey through its changing faces:
Early Days: The Spartan Connection (1950s-1992):
-Initially, Troy adopted the logo of the Troy State Teachers College Spartans, featuring a fierce Spartan warrior in armor and spear.
-This symbolized the program's early identity and connection to the college.
Transition and Identity Crisis (1993-1998):
-As the university transitioned to Troy State University, the Spartan logo lost its relevance.
-A period of experimentation ensued, with inconsistent logos, including a Trojan helmet and a lettermark design.
Birth of the Modern "Angry T:" (1999-Present):
-In 1999, the iconic "Angry T" logo emerged, depicting a stylized Trojan helmet with piercing eyes and flaring lines.
-This bold design resonated with fans and solidified the program's unique identity as the Trojans.
Variations and Special Editions:
-The "Angry T" remains the primary logo, but variations have emerged over time.
-Alternate helmet designs featuring chrome or matte finishes add visual depth.
-Special edition logos honoring military personnel or commemorating milestones further showcase the program's spirit.
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