I used to work in the sports world focused on graphic design, and, let me tell you, it's a whole different…ball game.
Sports design is entirely different from the rest of the design world. It comes with specific colors, fonts, styles, and a demographic that won't hold back when they don't like it. Not to mention, you can only use specific colors, fonts, and styles that don't compete with other teams, brands, or entities. So it only makes sense that with the competitive nature of sports comes graphic design that's representative of just that.
Today we're sharing five sports designers that have cracked the code.
Britt Davis | @brittdavis704
Britt Davis has an impressive resume. Having led various creative projects in product design, print, illustration, branding, even customizing sneakers, she's done it all. Currently, she's a Senior Graphic Designer at AMP Sports + Entertainment which includes working for Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United FC, and Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Follow her Instagram account to view behind-the-scenes work, upcoming designs for the Atlanta Falcons, and a peek into a senior designer's life. If you're looking for inspiration, Britt's account will surely give you just that.
Todd Radom | @toddradom
Talk about a sports design legend. Todd Radom's work includes creating the official logos for Super Bowl XXXVIII, the 2009 NBA All-Star Game, 2014, 2016, and 2018 MLB All-Star Games, the graphic identities of multiple Major League Baseball teams, as well as countless other projects. Not only is he a big-time designer, but he also has contributed commentary about sports logos and branding for ESPN, National Public Radio, and The New York Times. His Instagram feed features images of sports games that he attends, his design work including original hand lettering for the Milwaukee Brewers jerseys and logo outtakes. Todd's account is a must-follow.
Michael Irwin | @michaelirwinco
With a bio that states, "Clean lines and mean minds," you can guarantee that Michael Irwin's account comes filled to the brim with robust yet minimalistic designs. With over thirteen years of experience under his belt, it's clear that Michael is a Creative Director, Brand Strategist, and Visual Storyteller with a passion for design. His clients include the Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions, ESPN, Indianapolis Colts, Los Angeles Chargers, Pepsi, Dos Equis, and countless more. This Instagram feed features conceptual logo explorations, football field paintings, sports rebrands, amongst other endeavors.
Addison Foote | @addison.foote
A designer for the NBA and other clients, including professional athletes like DeMarcus Cousins and Brandon Knight, Puma, Rio Olympics, and more, Addison Foote is a designer with evident passion and skill. His Instagram feed is vibrant, full of energy, and engaging typography. With his talent and artful eye, he deserves more followers than he currently has.
Sergii Manakov | @sergiimanakov
Ukraine-based designer Sergii Manakov has an Instagram feed that's strikingly minimal. His designs range from logos for laser tag clubs and student basketball teams to conceptual professional sports logo designs. His compositions often take the shape of your typical sports designs, but they often have more sleek and modern design characteristics.
