UCF sports special uniforms vs. Temple for annual space game
For the sixth year in a row, UCF is honoring the university’s ties to NASA’s space program with space-themed uniforms.
The Knights, who unofficially go by the “Citronauts” for their annual space game, wore special jerseys that feature “SpaceU” across the chest with Canaveral blue numbers presented in a unique font.
UCF’s newest helmet, which takes on the color anodized black, is the darkest shade of black ever worn in program history, according to the school.
This year’s patch on the jerseys features a large telescope pointing toward deep space.
Prior to Thursday’s game against Temple, UCF coach Gus Malzahn shared his thoughts on the special uniforms after getting a sneak peek.
“They look good to me,” he said. “I’m kind of boring, and all that. So if I like it, it’s probably pretty cool.”
UCF first wore space-themed uniforms in 2017, starting a new tradition honoring the university’s past.
When the university opened in 1963, it was known as Florida Technological University with the mission of providing personnel to support the growing U.S. space program at the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
As the school grew in size and academic scope, the name changed in 1978 to what it’s known as today: the University of Central Florida.
Despite the name change, UCF’s ties to space are stronger than ever. Nearly 30% of Kennedy Space Center employees are UCF alumni.
Nationally, UCF is No. 1 in the country for placing graduates in aerospace industry jobs, according to the school.
There are even ties between the space and football programs. The 50-yard line of FBC Mortgage Stadium is on the exact latitude as Launch Complex 39A, NASA’s most historic launch pad, 31 miles to the east.
The Knights were 5-0 all-time in the annual space game entering Thursday.
Email Jason Beede at jbeede@orlandosentinel.com or follow him on Twitter at @therealBeede.
