Northwest Missouri State will have a new look for the Family Weekend matchup against Missouri Southern.
For the first time in program history, the Bearcats will don black helmets.
Head coach John McMenamin said a new helmet wasn't in the team's budget. Instead, the special Family Weekend lids were made possible by donations from the Bearcat Former Player Association — a group of Northwest football alumni that support the team through fundraising efforts.
"It's awesome because they've been in our shoes," McMenamin said. "The BFPA, that's family. Those are all former players. They want to honor the past and elevate the future. They've done a great job of that, so we're really fortunate to have them in our corner."
Click here to see the video unveiling the new helmets on the BFPA's Instagram
The black helmets will have a black facemask. There is a silver paw with a red "N" on one side of the helmet and the player's number in silver on the opposite side.
The BFPA is in its second year of existence. The organization brings together different eras of Northwest football with events and tailgates for each home game. It also offers a way to give back. The BFPA has raised money for equipment, supplements and nutrition for the team. It has provided an alternative to NIL that benefits every player.
"I think what makes this level fun is the team aspect of it," McMenamin said. "These guys are best friends for life. We're all in the same boat. Nobody's getting rich off of this."
"I just think Division II is really special. Northwest is even more special, and the BFPA has really helped enhance what we have to offer here in Maryville."
