The SU Athletics department auctioned off a redesigned Syracuse football helmet Thursday for more than $2,000.

The auction concluded on Thursday after four days, with a winning bid of $2,020. The new helmets were designed specifically for the 2013 season and were debuted by the SU players during their 700^th win against Tulane on Sept. 21.

The top bid on the helmet was more than twice that of any other item listed on the Syracuse Athletics Online Auctions page. The website auctions off balls, jerseys and posters — some of which are autographed by Jim Boeheim and Scott Shafer.

Associate Athletic Director Joe Giansante could not confirm whether the helmet being auctioned off had been worn during the game. The profit from the auction will go to support the athletic department, he said.

Auctions are an important way for the athletic department to connect with its audience and give fans access to one-of-a kind memorabilia, Giansante said.

“We hope to be able to provide things for fans that they won’t be able to get anywhere else,” Giansante said.

He said Syracuse athletics would like to grow their online auction site by expanding their offerings.  He also said that future auctions may give fans a chance to bid on opportunities like going on a road trip with the team, or being on the field before a game.

The new helmets feature the color orange less prominently than the old design, which attracted controversy online when pictures of the helmets first surfaced on the web.

The new design features a navy blue-to-orange gradient with the classic Syracuse ‘S’ on the sides.

Giansante said the helmet redesign is intended to appeal to a younger audience.

“It’s important for college athletic programs to be of interest to young people and create an environment of innovation and forward thinking,” he said.

In a press conference after last Saturday’s win over Tulane, head coach Scott Shafer said the process of developing new uniforms and helmets in collaboration with Nike was an exciting opportunity for student athletes.

“They’re excited about being a team that’s supported by Nike and getting to be creative with the design and use the best products in the world,” Shafer said.

Giansante said the players were happy with the new helmets, which he said he believes is ultimately the most important thing.

“The student athletes absolutely love them,” he said. “If they’re excited about it, we’re excited about it.”

Published on September 29, 2013 at 11:25 pm

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