Lake Superior State Lakers Logo PNG
The Lake Superior State Lakers logo resonates with the geographical features of the team’s formation area. The emblem emphasizes patriotism and a commitment to the traditional values of its region of origin. The logo reflects the reliability and dedication of the athletes.
The athletic history of Lake Superior State University began in 1946 when the institution opened in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. After becoming independent in 1966, the university began developing its sports teams, naming them the Lakers due to their proximity to Lake Superior.
The hockey team quickly became the university’s main pride. Transitioning to NCAA competition and joining the CCHA league in 1972 allowed the team to compete with the country’s strongest universities. Between 1988 and 1996, the Lakers won four NCAA titles, becoming one of the most successful teams in collegiate hockey. A notable event was the opening of Taffy Abel Arena in 1989, named after Olympic champion Clarence “Taffy” Abel.
After the CCHA’s breakup in 2013, the team moved to the WCHA but returned to the newly formed CCHA in 2021. Throughout history, the Lakers have produced over 40 players who went on to the NHL.
In addition to hockey, the university successfully develops basketball, track and field, and tennis within the GLIAC conference. The women’s basketball team became GLIAC champions in 1987, and the women’s tennis team regularly achieves high rankings in the conference.
Meaning and History
What is Lake Superior State Lakers?
It is a blue-and-gold NCAA II sports team, with a Division I hockey team. It is known for its participation in the Central Collegiate Hockey Association and its achievements in basketball, volleyball, and tennis. Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the team takes advantage of the cold climate for winter sports. The Taffy Abel Arena provides a home-ice advantage in college hockey.
2000 – today
The anchor has been chosen as the team’s primary symbol, emphasizing the university’s strong connection to water-related themes. This decision is tied to the university’s geographic location on a peninsula and the abundance of bodies of water in the region. The university is named after Lake Superior and the city of Sault Ste. Marie is situated on the St. Marys River, a natural border between the United States and Canada. The river flows into Lake Superior, and the university is built near these bodies of water.
The inscription on the anchor is designed to resemble a seal, signifying approval or the achievement of an important goal. The team name, “Lakers,” is positioned diagonally with an upward dynamic rise, visually conveying a drive for victories, progress, and growth.
The blue logo aligns with the water theme, reinforcing associations with the lakes and rivers that have become integral to the university’s and sports teams’ identities.

