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This sign, first used by Oklahoma head coach Bud Wilkinson in the 1950s, is now on display in the Barry Switzer Center.
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Play Like a Champion
Oklahoma players and coaches touch the traditional
'Play Like a Champion Today' sign posted above the
locker room door as they head for Owen Field before
every home game.
As the team enters the field, the Sooners run under
a crimson banner flanked by flags representing each
of Oklahoma's seven national championships. The banner displays
'Play Like a Champion' on the side facing the players
and 'Oklahoma Sooners' on the side facing the field.
Away from Norman, the OU equipment staff faithfully
posts a travel version of the sign for the Sooners
to touch as they depart the locker room for the field.
On the third floor of the Barry Switzer Center, one
of the early 'Play Like A Champion Today' signs that
once hung in Bud Wilkinson's office sits in a glass
display. Wilkinson coached OU from 1947-63.
The item was also used through Barry Switzer's era
(1973-88) as a sign that players touched before walking
to the field.
When did Oklahoma first use the slogan? No one can
provide a definitive answer. The origin of the saying,
which is also associated with Notre Dame's program,
is not known.