When we think of college football, and especially Ohio State, the first thing that comes to mind is Ohio State football players’ helmets adorned with “Buckeye Leaves“– most iconic thing. This is a source of intrigue among fans and sports enthusiasts. Nevertheless, not just decorative, these stickers are more than that, for they are the symbols of hard work, excellence, and the relentless pursuit of victory.

The Buckeye Leaf is a tradition that has been a part of the Buckeye athletic teams for years and is symbolic of the atmosphere of respect and team spirit. Each “Buckeye Leaf” stands for a heroic deed during the game, such as the most spectacular play, a player pushing his limits, or the team succeeding as a whole. Let’s learn what “Buckeye Leaves” on their helmet means.

What is a Buckeye?

A buckeye is generally known as an American tree or shrub, which is related to the horse chestnut—red or white flowers. As per the Ohio State University’s Museum of Biological Diversity, the term “Buckeye” originated with European immigrants who came to America. Native Americans observed that Europeans’ eyes were bigger, like a buck deer’s male eyes. The term “buckeye” was so created. That’s a lot more to the word Buckeye.

The first person to be called a “hetuck,” or “big buckeye,” was Col. Ebenezer Sproat in 1788, according to evidence from Ohio State’s library. Later in 1833, during the War of 1812, William Harrison, a future president and general, used the phrase multiple times to refer to a unique unit of Ohio soldiers who had defeated a greater number of adversaries. So, the word “Buckeye” has historical meaning too, and that’s how it became the proud thing for Ohio State.

What does Buckeye depict on Ohio State’s helmet?

According to a report from the Columbus Dispatch, Buckeye leaves on helmets are generally like awards for accomplishments related to individual and team success. However, the head coach decides how many stickers to distribute to players. Players receive each buckeye sticker for “big plays and consistency on the field,” according to the university’s website. The Buckeye sticker is a proper tradition, and when did it start?

In 1968, the sticker tradition started under Woody Hayes, one of Ohio State’s legendary coaches. He and his trainer, Ernie Biggs, wanted to reward the players for their performance and achievements, and then they came up with this idea. As mentioned earlier, it is related to the Buckeye tree. But is it only this?

Buckeyes are also considered symbols of good luck, and that’s why the team itself is also called Ohio State Buckeyes. “The Buckeye stickers represent the spirit of Ohio State football and are more than just decorations. The Buckeye leaf is a steadfast representation of the principles and customs that elevate Ohio State football above the level of a game, even in the face of ups and downs, victories, and heartaches,” Brad Kern said.