Where did Akron Zips get their name?
The Akron Zips got their name from a campus-wide contest held in 1925 to choose a nickname for the university's athletic teams. Student Margaret Hamlin suggested "Zippers," which was also the name of a popular rubber overshoe sold by Akron's B.F. Goodrich Co.
The name "Zips" was chosen because it was seen as a symbol of speed and agility, which are important qualities for athletes. The name is also a nod to Akron's history as a rubber manufacturing center.
Akron Zips History.
The Akron Zips football team represents the University of Akron in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) of the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). The team plays its home games at InfoCision Stadium–Summa Field in Akron, Ohio.
The Zips have a long and storied history, dating back to 1891. The team has won four MAC championships, most recently in 2005. The Zips have also appeared in four bowl games, most recently the 2015 Dollar General Bowl.
Some of the most notable players in Akron Zips football history include:
- Jim Otis: Otis was a star running back for the Zips from 1968 to 1970. He is the school's all-time leading rusher with 4,344 yards.
- Don Criqui: Criqui was a quarterback for the Zips from 1968 to 1970. He is the school's all-time leader in passing yards with 5,720 yards.
- Pat Shurmur: Shurmur was a quarterback for the Zips from 1988 to 1991. He is currently the head coach of the Cleveland Browns.
- Josh Cribbs: Cribbs was a wide receiver and return specialist for the Zips from 2002 to 2004. He is the school's all-time leader in receptions with 267 catches.
- Joe Haden: Haden was a cornerback for the Zips from 2007 to 2009. He was a first-round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft and is currently a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Akron Zips football team is a proud tradition of excellence. The team has a rich history of success and has produced some of the best players in the MAC. The Zips are always a contender for the MAC championship and are always a threat to make a bowl game.