EXCLUSIVE: Oregon Ducks Uniform Designers Reveal ‘Stomp Out Cancer’ Creation
In an exclusive interview, Todd and Quinn Van Horne, the creative minds behind Oregon Ducks’ iconic “Generation O” uniforms, revealed the deeply personal story behind this year’s ‘Stomp Out Cancer’ design. Speaking with Ally Osborne of Oregon Ducks on Sports Illustrated and KOIN 6 Game On, the father-son duo offered a behind-the-scenes look at a project that transcends football, touching on themes of survival, family, and hope.
The Oregon Ducks have long been synonymous with cutting-edge uniform designs, thanks to their enduring partnership with Nike. However, this year’s creation for the Michigan State game carries a weight far beyond aesthetic appeal.
At the heart of this year’s design is Sauphia Lanning, wife of Oregon coach Dan Lanning and a seven-year cancer survivor. The idea for the “Stomp Out Cancer” uniforms was born when the Lannings moved to Oregon in 2022, following Dan’s appointment as head coach.
“Rob Mullens approached us with the Lannings’ story,” Todd Van Horne explained. “What started as a welcome gesture evolved into a powerful narrative about survival and gratitude.”
Sauphia, who battled osteosarcoma until 2017, became the cornerstone of the project. Her initial sketch, combining the Oregon “O” with a cancer ribbon, set the tone for the entire design process. She also coined the phrase “Flight + Fight,” which features prominently on the uniform and related apparel.
The Lanning children were integral to the design process, each contributing elements that speak to their family’s cancer journey. An ice cream cone symbol, representing post-treatment treats, is woven throughout the uniform. It ties into a poignant phrase: “A world without cancer is like ice cream on a summer day.”
Other details include the yellow color symbolizing Sauphia’s specific cancer type, the Oregon “O” victory bell on the shoulders, and rainbow stripes representing various cancer awareness colors.
Quinn Van Horne emphasized the unprecedented level of detail in this uniform. “This project was unique in how deeply the details were tied to the story,” he said. “It truly started with a sketch and grew into something much more meaningful.”
The 18-month design process involved extensive collaboration between the Van Hornes, the Lanning family, Nike, players, and coaches. The final product is manufactured locally in Portland by A&K Designs.
“When we see fans and players discussing how much the jersey means to them, it’s incredibly rewarding,” Quinn added. “It’s a testament to the university and everyone involved.”
The “Stomp Out Cancer” uniforms will make their debut at Autzen Stadium on October 1st at 6 p.m. as Oregon faces Michigan State. More than just a uniform, it stands as a symbol of resilience, family unity, and the ongoing fight against cancer – a powerful reminder that some battles extend far beyond the football field.
The “Stomp Out Cancer” initiative extends far beyond the football field, embodying the University of Oregon’s commitment to community engagement and social responsibility. This program, while visually represented by the specially designed uniforms, is part of a broader campaign to raise awareness and funds for cancer research and patient support.
In partnership with local hospitals and cancer research centers, the University of Oregon has organized a series of events leading up to the Michigan State game. These include cancer awareness workshops, fundraising runs, and meet-and-greet sessions with cancer survivors, including Sauphia Lanning herself. The goal is not only to raise funds but also to educate the community about various types of cancer, early detection methods, and available support systems.
The program has also sparked a wave of volunteer activities among Oregon students. Many have signed up to visit cancer wards in local hospitals, offering companionship and support to patients undergoing treatment. This hands-on approach has fostered a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by cancer patients and their families, creating a more empathetic and engaged student body.
Moreover, the “Stomp Out Cancer” campaign has attracted attention from alumni and corporate sponsors. Several Oregon alumni working in the medical and pharmaceutical industries have pledged support, offering internships and research opportunities to students interested in oncology and related fields. Corporate sponsors have stepped up as well, with promises to match donations made during the game, potentially doubling the impact of the fundraising efforts.
The University’s athletics department has gone a step further by dedicating a portion of the ticket sales from the Michigan State game to cancer research. Additionally, limited-edition “Stomp Out Cancer” merchandise, including replicas of the special uniforms, will be available for purchase, with proceeds going directly to selected cancer charities.
In the week leading up to the game, the Oregon Ducks have organized campus-wide events to engage the entire university community. These include a candlelight vigil honoring those lost to cancer, a science fair showcasing the latest in cancer research from the university’s own laboratories, and a series of public lectures by renowned oncologists and researchers.
The impact of the “Stomp Out Cancer” program has reverberated beyond Eugene, inspiring other colleges and universities to consider similar initiatives. It has become a model for how athletic programs can leverage their visibility and resources for significant social causes.
Perhaps most poignantly, the program has created a platform for sharing stories of hope and resilience. Cancer survivors from the local community, including students and staff, have been invited to share their journeys, creating a tapestry of narratives that underscore the human aspect of the fight against cancer.
As game day approaches, the excitement is palpable not just for the athletic contest, but for the collective statement the Oregon community is making. The “Stomp Out Cancer” uniforms, with their thoughtful design elements, will serve as a visual reminder of this commitment. When the Ducks take the field against Michigan State, they’ll be carrying with them the hopes and support of countless individuals touched by cancer, transforming a football game into a powerful moment of unity and purpose in the ongoing battle against this devastating disease.
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