ABSTRACT
This chapter explores how institutional public identities are impacted by intercollegiate athletics and, specifically how institutional culture as a component of public identity is communicated through college football’s traveling trophy. This type of college tradition at Division III institutions symbolizes rivalry and competition in college football. The actual game illustrates a ritual that is woven into the fabric of the institution, and into the institutional culture, as are the traditions that accompany the competition. After reading the stories of the trophies that played for in more than 50 Division III rivalry football games, it becomes clear that traveling trophies represent more than a gridiron victory. They honor people who are important to the institutions, highlight the heritage of the institutions, and celebrate surrounding communities.
