The American Athletic Conference is no more. In a rebranding move, the league officially announced it will now be known simply as the American Conference — or, more casually, the American. It also introduced the first official collegiate conference mascot: Soar the Eagle.
“A brand is more than a name,” commissioner Tim Pernetti said in a release. “Over the past year, we stepped back, listened, and involved our community.” Pernetti said. “That’s how real, lasting identity is built. We’re not slick, we’re strong. This brand defines who we are, service and mission-driven institutions of higher learning with highly competitive athletics and deeply committed leaders. The student-athletes and their experience will always be our north star.”
The name change also aims to reduce confusion with the ACC, a common issue for the league since its formation in 2013.
Soar, the American’s new eagle mascot, is designed to boost fan engagement and open up new business opportunities. Expect to see Soar featured in merchandise, sponsorships, social media content and at events across the conference. The mascot adds a new layer to how the league builds spirit and connects with its audience.
The new rallying cry, “Built to Rise,” reflects the league’s core values and ties directly to American RISE Ventures — its newly formed commercial and innovation arm focused on revenue, innovation, sports and entertainment.
“The American has built a brand that differentiates us in a crowded collegiate landscape by establishing and elevating what makes us distinctive,” Pernetti said. “This modernization is rooted in who we are and where we’re headed. It prioritizes clarity, momentum, and the competitive advantage driving every part of our conference forward.”
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Source link : https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/aac-changes-name-to-american-conference-introduces-mascot-soar-as-part-of-rebranding-intiative/
Author : Cody Nagel
Publish date : 2025-07-21 14:34:00
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