Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs Logo PNG
The Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs logo is dedicated to the team’s mascot. Each variation uniquely portrays the animal, revealing new traits and behaviors of the athletic dog. The emblem represents champions who leave their competitors far behind.
Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs: Brand overview
The history of the Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs began in 1905, with the founding of Boiling Springs High School, the future Gardner-Webb University. The athletic program was developed in the 1920s, and 1928, the bulldog became the team’s mascot.
A significant period began in 1969, when the college attained four-year university status and joined the NAIA. The basketball team became famous in the 1970s for its fast-paced style and was named the “Runnin’ Bulldogs.”
The transition to NCAA Division II took place in 2000, and two years later, the university joined the Atlantic Sun Conference, beginning competition in NCAA Division I. In 2008, Gardner-Webb moved to the Big South Conference, providing greater national competition opportunities.
In the 2018–2019 season, the basketball team made its first-ever NCAA tournament appearance, gaining national recognition. By 2023, the university had significantly developed its athletic infrastructure, upgrading Spangler Stadium and Paul Porter Arena.
Meaning and History
What is Gardner-Webb Runnin Bulldogs?
Gardner-Webb University athletic programs compete in the Big South Conference NCAA Division I. Football, basketball, baseball, and wrestling teams actively represent the university in the North Carolina area. The programs use the bulldog symbol, red and black colors, and combine the atmosphere of Division I competition with the coziness of a small town, creating a close-knit athletic environment for student-athletes.
1970 – 1985
The logo features the team’s bulldog mascot, first introduced in 1922. The symbol has a long history, and the bulldog is hand-drawn, giving it a unique character. The bulldog carefully surveys its surroundings, preparing to strike.
The pose and details of the drawing emphasize the intensity of the moment: the dog claws at the ground, expressing a readiness for action and a display of fervor. The dynamic image conveys energy and ferocity, creating an impression of strength and commanding respect. Protruding fangs, sharp claws, and spikes on the collar enhance the sense of resilience.
The bulldog’s ed collar adds a touch of prestige to the image, emphasizing its status as one of the top fighting breeds. This highlights the mascot’s elite nature and role as a likely victor in upcoming competitions.
The collar features the university’s initials, signifying the mascot’s affiliation with the team. It connects the past and present and showcases a legacy of tradition and strength of spirit.
1985 – 1993
The bulldog is depicted in a full-speed sprint, becoming the central element of an emblem filled with energy, athletic intensity, and tension. Its fierce snarl and piercing gaze create an image that leaves no doubt about its strength and determination. The symbol conveys power and serves as a warning — challenging the storm is dangerous. The bulldog’s gaze and dynamic posture amplify its fury, rendering its target vulnerable.
The bulldog’s red jersey connects it to the team’s uniform, forming an association with its members. The jersey features the abbreviation “GWC,” which stands for Gardner-Webb College. This symbolizes the bulldog’s connection to the college and its role as a symbol of team spirit and strength.
The design details emphasize the mascot’s character, combining dynamism, intensity, and ties to university culture. It embodies the team’s drive for victory.
1993 – 2022
With the attainment of university status, the college updated its logo, changing the abbreviation on the bulldog figure. Instead of “GWC,” it now uses “GWU,” reflecting the institution’s new level. The other elements of the emblem remain unchanged, preserving its previous appearance and associations. The bulldog continues to be the central symbol of the team, representing strength and energy.
2022 – today
The modern symbol emphasizes pride and nobility. The bulldog is depicted standing with its head held high. The logo update coincides with the mascot’s 100th anniversary. The lines that outline the dog’s figure have been bolder, giving the image a sense of stability and confidence.
The new design was selected after extensive research on public reaction and perception. Officially named “Bo” in 2021, the mascot appears powerful, composed, and formidable enough to command respect from opponents.
The image conveys the strength and confidence associated with the team’s mascot and its longstanding history.