How Did Hawaii Rainbow Warriors Get Their Name?
The name "Rainbow Warriors" for the University of Hawaii's athletic teams has a rich history that dates back to 1923. The name is deeply rooted in Native Hawaiian culture and has undergone several changes over the years.
The Birth of the Rainbow Warriors
Originally, the UH football team was known as the "Deans." However, during a football game in 1923 against Oregon State, a rainbow appeared in the sky. The team, led by UH head coach Otto Klum, won the game 7-0. Observers began calling the team the "Rainbows," believing that they would win as long as a rainbow was overhead.
Deep Roots in Native Hawaiian Culture
The Significance of the Rainbow
The rainbow has deep roots in Native Hawaiian culture. It was officially adopted as the logo of the UH Athletics Department in 1982 and remained until 2000. In 1974, the football team officially adopted the name "Rainbow Warrior," partly in honor of a UH scholarship fund-raising organization, 'Ahahui Koa Anuenue - the Order of the Rainbow Warrior.
The Colors of UH
The general colors of UH were green and white, which were found to be significant in Ancient Hawaiian history and culture. Green was the color of Lono, one of the four major gods in Hawaiian culture, representing agriculture, rain, and peace.
