Why is Utah football called Utes?

By Jason Bolton May 20, 2023 11:49

Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images

The history of Utah football runs deep and intriguingly, especially when it comes to the team nickname that they value so fiercely: the Utes. Most people might think this is just a fancy abbreviation for Utah—and that's partially correct—but dark origins lurk around the history of its name.

The Utes are Utah's namesake, representing the Native American people who have called Colorado and regions of nearby states their homeland for centuries. The Ute tribe is rooted in Utah's history quite literally, with its name found everywhere, from town names and cities to even on our state flag.

That stirring stew of schadenfreude and misplaced sensitivity corroded the common sense that was easy to apply in this case: The University of Utah merely honored its tradition by choosing as its moniker one after a nearby native Ute tribe. The university made this decision in collaboration with the Ute tribe and has continued to work alongside them until now.

The Ute tribe has been present on many levels of Utah football. They have even performed traditional tribal dances prior to games and once appeared on the field during halftime shows. The Ute tribe was critical in the design of these uniforms, motifs, and symbols representing their heritage.

The Utes used the "Ute Proud" logo, one of Utah football's most distinguishing features. The two contain a drum with a Ute tribal design, each acting to reaffirm the team's commitment to recognizing them as well as their traditions.

According to wider circles in the conversations around this issue, Native American imagery and names have been used within sports, an area that has caught some flack over recent decades. The Ute tribe, however, supports the university using their name and logo—a recognition that Utah officials note they have negotiated with the group to ensure it gets proper credit for its traditions and culture.

Along with its willingness to respect the Ute tribe, Utah football has a history of victories on the field. The team is home to a ton of NFL talent who have made their way through Utah—names like Alex Smith, Eric Weddle, and Star Lotulelei.

Brant Kuithe (87), out of the Utah football stable, has had some noise surrounding his name in past years. Kuithe is arguably the most athletic and versatile weapon on Utah's roster while also being one of its best leaders both in the locker room and off of it.

A native of California, Kuithe starred in both football and track growing up. A three-sport athlete in high school, he was recruited by top schools but went to Utah instead.

Kuithe began his career with the Utes in 2018 as a special teams player and reserve tight end. Yet he soon showed his worth to the team, making the Pac-12 All-Freshman squad.

Since then, Kuithe has done nothing but impress his coaches and teammates. That has made him an integral part of the Utah offense and one of the most versatile players in the Pac-12.

Off the field, Kuithe has been a quiet leader and very dedicated to his study habits. He is a National Honor Society member and plans to study mechanical engineering.

The success of Kuithe, an all-conference performer on the field and in the classroom, is symbolic of Utah football. A message that is at the core of everything else we'll eventually wind up mentioning about the Utes subsequently, going all around from their relationship with the nearby tribe to scholarly confidence in accomplishing magnificence.

In the end, Utah football is a reflection of the state itself—or perhaps vice versa—before leaving you to wonder if that's true. The Utes are more than a football team; they're the state's identity and values, so it stands to reason that their good character starts at home.