Penguins Primary Logo

For sports fans, the history of a team’s logo can be an exciting topic. The Youngstown State Penguins have had several different logos throughout their long and storied history, but one has remained constant since its introduction in 1983: the Primary Logo. This iconic design is now seen on all official merchandise and apparel for YSU athletics teams. It is widely recognized as a symbol of pride for students and alumni.

The original version was created by graphic designer Tom O'Hara in 1983 when he was asked to come up with something that would represent YSU's solid athletic tradition while also reflecting the city's industrial heritage. After much experimentation, O'Hara settled on what we know today as the Penguin Primary Logo – an image featuring two crossed hockey sticks above a stylized penguin wearing skates with wings outstretched behind it (a nod to Youngstown being known as “the Steel City”).

Over time, this simple yet powerful design has become synonymous with YSU athletics, appearing not only on jerseys but also on banners, souvenirs, hats, t-shirts – you name it! It even inspired subsequent iterations such as 'Penguin Pete,' which features our beloved mascot standing atop his hockey stick surrounded by stars representing each varsity sport at Youngstown State University (YSU). No matter how often it appears or where you see it, though - whether online or off - there's no mistaking that classic black & white silhouette of our beloved Penguin Primary Logo!