Roos Primary Logo

Since its founding in 1933, the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) has had a long and storied history. From its inception as the Kansas City Junior College to today's UMKC Roos, the school's primary logo is one constant throughout this journey. Let’s take a look back at how it all began and how it evolved.

The first iteration of what is now known as the “Roo” logo was created in 1948 by then Athletic Director John Burcham. This version featured an anthropomorphic kangaroo wearing boxing gloves with text reading “Kangaroos – UMKC Athletics” beneath it. The design was meant to represent strength and agility while also conveying that athletics were important at UMKC even before they became members of NCAA Division I in 1973 when they joined Conference USA (now American Athletic).

Over time, various changes were made to update or refine this iconic symbol for modern times, including adding stars around the head or changing colors from red & white to blue & gold but always keeping true to its original spirit - strength through athleticism! In 2007, another major redesign occurred, which saw more realistic features added, like fur texture on body parts and subtle details like claws on hands/feet, but perhaps most importantly - replacing boxing gloves with basketballs! This change helped solidify their identity within the college sports world since basketball is arguably their most significant sports program, currently followed closely by soccer. Both have very successful teams year after year making them perennial contenders for conference championships every season!

Today, we can see iterations of this Roo logo everywhere, from jerseys worn during games down to small items given away at promotional events, showing just how much pride people have taken ownership over this beloved mascot whose roots go back nearly 70 years ago now...making sure everyone knows who represents Kansas City: The Mighty Roos Of University Missouri-Kansas City!