What began as a simple conversation about honoring a small part of Texas has grown into a statewide show of solidarity — thanks in large part to Rice Athletics.
In July, devastating flooding in the Hill Country region claimed more than 130 lives, most of them in Kerr County. When Rice’s football coaches first discussed wearing helmet stickers reading “Kerrville Strong,” Eric George, assistant vice president and deputy athletic director, suggested something bigger.
“I like the idea, but there’s so much more that was impacted,” George said. “I thought, what if we just did a Texas one and got everybody in the state to wear it?”
That suggestion sparked a movement. Rice designed the first draft of the logo. Texas Tech added a green ribbon to symbolize remembrance, and that version became the one worn by universities across the state in Week 1 of the college football season.
George helped rally support to get other programs involved.
“I reached out to friends at different schools, and everyone was on board,” he said. “We sent a note to every single Division I school in Texas — from Houston Christian to (Texas) A&M — and everyone said, ‘Yep, we’re in.’ The company that made the stickers even donated them for a lot of schools, which was really cool.”
Beyond the field, Rice coordinated a video project in which each school filmed players placing the sticker on their helmets and “passing” it from left to right. Edited together by Rice’s assistant athletic director of creative services, the final video looked like the entire state was handing the green ribbon from one team to another — a powerful gesture of unity.
“The state of Texas is unlike any other, and to witness everyone rally together to honor those impacted and to show that they’re not alone was a really cool and powerful gesture to be a part of,” George said.
The Owls wore the stickers in their season opener and will continue the tribute alongside the University of Houston in Week 2.
“Our thoughts and prayers remain with all of those who were affected by the devastating floods this summer,” said Tommy McClelland, vice president and director of athletics. “These stickers are simply a reminder to our team, our community and those watching that we are all better when we support one another in times of tragedy.”
Prior to the 6 p.m. kickoff against Houston Sept. 6, to decide possession of the venerable Bayou Bucket trophy, the "R" Association will hold a pregame tailgate beginning at 3 p.m. Single-game tickets for all seven of Rice's 2025 home football games are available here or by calling (713) 348-OWLS (6957).