Bronze Boot

Bronze Boot. The Bronze Boot is a traveling trophy awarded to the victor of the annual college football rivalry game between the Colorado State Rams and the Wyoming Cowboys. First contested in 1968, the trophy symbolizes one of the most intense and historic rivalries in the Mountain West Conference and NCAA Division I FBS. The game and its associated traditions are central to the athletic identities of both Colorado State University and the University of Wyoming.

History

The rivalry between the two institutions, often called the "Border War," dates to 1899, but the Bronze Boot trophy was introduced in 1968 to formalize the competition. The idea for the trophy was conceived by the R.O.T.C. units at both universities, seeking a symbol that honored shared military heritage. The trophy itself is crafted from a boot worn by a United States Army soldier from Fort Collins, Colorado during the Vietnam War, linking the competition to national service. Over the decades, the game has been a pivotal contest in the Western Athletic Conference and later the Mountain West Conference, with conference championships and bowl game implications often on the line. Notable figures like coaches Sonny Lubick and Joe Tiller have been central to many memorable contests in the series.

Trophy design

The trophy consists of an actual bronze-plated combat boot mounted on a wooden base. The boot was donated by Colorado State University R.O.T.C. member Dan Romero, who wore it during his service in Vietnam. The base is adorned with plaques listing the scores of each game since the trophy's inception. The design is intentionally rugged and martial, reflecting its origins and the tough, physical nature of the rivalry games played often in harsh late-autumn conditions in the Rocky Mountains. The trophy is maintained and transported by the R.O.T.C. detachments of the winning university, who provide a ceremonial guard for the boot during game week and at the stadium.

Game results

As of the 2023 season, the Wyoming Cowboys hold a narrow lead in the overall series that includes games predating the trophy. The first Bronze Boot game in 1968 was won by Wyoming. The trophy has seen several extended stays at one institution, such as during the dominant eras under Colorado State coach Sonny Lubick in the 1990s and early 2000s. Some of the most dramatic games include a 2009 overtime victory for Wyoming and a 2012 comeback win by the Colorado State Rams. The game is typically scheduled as the final regular-season contest for both teams, adding to its significance within the Mountain West Conference standings.

Traditions

The week of the game, known as "Border War Week," is filled with events at both campuses. A central tradition is the "Boot Run," where R.O.T.C. cadets from the previous year's winning school run the game ball and the trophy to the state border, where it is formally handed off to cadets from the rival school. The trophy is then escorted to the host stadium. Pregame ceremonies often feature performances by the University of Wyoming Cowboy Marching Band and the Colorado State University Marching Band. The winning team's fans frequently storm the field to celebrate with players and the trophy, especially after home victories.

Significance

The Bronze Boot rivalry is considered one of the most passionate in NCAA Division I FBS, consistently drawing large crowds to War Memorial Stadium in Laramie and Canvas Stadium in Fort Collins. It is a highlight of the sports calendar in both states and receives extensive coverage from media like the Denver Post and CBS Sports Network. Beyond football, the game fosters intense school spirit and alumni engagement, impacting fundraising and recruitment for both Colorado State University and the University of Wyoming. The shared history, geographic proximity, and frequent competitive balance ensure the Bronze Boot remains a deeply meaningful symbol of regional pride and collegiate athletic tradition. Category:American football trophies and awards Category:College football rivalry games in the United States Category:Sports in Colorado Category:Sports in Wyoming Category:Mountain West Conference