Latest news with #Soar
Miami Herald
22-07-2025
- Sport
- Miami Herald
AAC introduces new name: American Conference
The American Athletic Conference is losing part of its name, announcing Monday it is rebranding as the American Conference. As part of the change, the American also introduced what it believed to be the first conference-wide live and animated mascot -- an eagle named Soar -- and a new motto: 'Built to Rise.' In a statement posted to its website, the conference said the new name 'reinforces a sharper, more modern identity' while also 'eliminating confusion' with other similarly named groups. One of those likely was the ACC -- the better-known Atlantic Coast Conference. The league said it will be referred to as American Conference on first reference and simply The American on following references. As for 'Soar,' the tough but friendly looking bird will be used as a community ambassador throughout the conference and was 'designed to fuel both school spirit and conference business growth,' according to the American. 'The American has built a brand that differentiates us in a crowded collegiate landscape by establishing and elevating what makes us distinctive,' commissioner Tim Pernetti said, per ESPN. 'This modernization is rooted in who we are and where we're headed. It prioritizes clarity, momentum, and the competitive advantage driving every part of our conference forward.' The American Conference has 15 member schools, starting with UAB, Charlotte, East Carolina, FAU, Memphis, North Texas, Rice, South Florida, Temple University, UTSA, Tulane and Tulsa. Army and Navy are football-only members, and Wichita State participates in only basketball and Olympic sports. Field Level Media 2025 - All Rights Reserved
UPI
21-07-2025
- Business
- UPI
AAC rebrands as American Conference; first one with live mascot
July 21 (UPI) -- The American Athletic Conference has rebranded as the American Conference and will have a lives mascot, an eagle named "Soar," officials announced Monday. "The American has built a brand that differentiates us in a crowded collegiate landscape by establishing and elevating what makes us distinctive," American Conference commissioner Tim Pernetti said in a news release. "This modernization is rooted in who we are and where we're headed. It prioritizes clarity, momentum, and the competitive advantage driving every part of our conference forward." The 15-member conference made the announcement days before media days Thursday and Friday in Charlotte, N.C. The conference's full all-sports members are Charlotte, East Carolina, Florida Atlantic, Memphis, North Texas, Rice, Temple, Tulane, Tulsa, UAB, USF, UTSA and SMU, with Wichita State a member for all sports except football. Army and Navy are football-only members, but the Army-Navy game is a non-conference matchup. You already know the name. Now see it with the power it deserves.#BuiltToRise The American (@American_Conf) July 21, 2025 Officials said the names American Athletic Conference and AAC will be retired, giving way to the new name -- American Conference on first reference and American in later references. The American said that Soar the Eagle will be the first live and animated mascot for a collegiate conference. "Soar's very identity reflects our DNA of innovation, grit, and service," the American said. "His name, 'Soar,' evokes upward flight and aspiration, aligning perfectly with the rally call, 'Built to Rise.'" The American Conference will unveil a new website Thursday. "A brand is more than a name," Pernetti said. "Over the past year, we stepped back, listened, and involved our community. That's how real, lasting identity is built. "We're not slick, we're strong. This brand defines who we are, service and mission-driven institutions of higher learning with highly competitive athletics and deeply committed leaders. "The student-athletes and their experience will always be our north star."
Tom's Guide
16-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Tom's Guide
Altra x Soar collab aims to elevate trail-running with innovative gear for race day
Long days spent racing in challenging conditions on the trails call for the best kit possible, and the new Soar x Altra range contains a range of gear sure to be of interest to dedicated trail runners. London-based Soar is best-known for making premium running apparel and the collaboration with Altra features a high-end trail-racing top as well as innovative half tights and a running cap. For their part, Altra makes some of the best trail-running shoes available, and the Altra Mont Blanc carbon plate shoe is included in the range. The top, cap and shoes in the range all come in the same Prism color, which is mostly white with rainbow splashes, while the half tights are black. Altra's Mont Blanc trail-running shoe has a carbon plate in the midsole, which uses two different foams to deliver a springy but stable ride. A Vibram outsole creates reliable grip across a wide range of terrains, and costs $260. The cap ($65) and top are both designed to be lightweight and breathable for long days in the sun, and the Trail Race top ($200) offers UPF 50 protection on panels on the shoulders, back and upper arms. It also has reinforced sections to resist abrasion in the areas where you typically wear a backpack on long trail runs. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. For me, however, the most exciting bit of gear in the range is the Trail Race shorts, which I've had a chance to test out myself. At $285 the Trail Race shorts are actually the most expensive product in the range, and they offer the most innovative features including RHEON strips on the legs. These strips stiffen when you land to absorb some of the impact of running, then relax to allow you to run freely. RHEON has been used by other brands, most notably in marathon racing half tights from Adidas and Soar themselves. The Soar x Altra half tight also offer a lot of storage for long runs, with four pockets and a loop system that can hold a jacket or trail-running poles. I used the shorts for a long run on the trails, carrying two 250ml soft flasks, some gels and my phone, as well as a 20-mile training session that included a 10K road race. Needless to say I found they are exceptionally comfortable and supportive. As someone who carries a lot of nutrition during road marathons, they'll work well for that, as well as for the long runs on the trails they're primarily designed for. You don't need to spend $285 to get a great pair of running shorts of course — the Rabbit Shredsters are great high-storage tights I've tested that cost $70, though don't have the RHEON tech. You can shop the whole range now on both the Soar and Altra websites, and also through select specialty retailers. Follow Tom's Guide on Google News to get our up-to-date news, how-tos, and reviews in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button.
Korea Herald
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Doyoung soars with wider musical spectrum
With NCT and as solo vocalist, Doyoung promises broader future Many say that a person should think of what they love and do best and turn it into a career. In that sense, NCT's Doyoung was born to be a singer. Singing brings him the most joy and confidence, and now he returns not just as a member of an idol group that electrifies tens of thousands of fans, but as a solo vocalist carving out his own musical path with a second full-length album. 'I'm incredibly grateful to be releasing a second album. It captures the stories I wanted to tell, and I had the chance to work with people I've long hoped to collaborate with. Just like the main theme of the album — 'the power to dream,' it gave me the strength to keep dreaming,' Doyoung said during a group interview held Thursday in Seongdong-gu, Seoul. Following his first LP "Youth" in 2024, which explored a range of emotions and experiences of young people, Doyoung shared that he aimed to embrace an even broader theme with his new release. 'At first, I was inspired by the image of wings. After settling on the title 'Soar,' I envisioned creating an album that inspires people to dream through imagery of transcending and rising above,' he explained. The album's notable lineup of contributors — icons in the history of Korean bands — underscores just how meaningful "Soar" is to Doyoung. 'Kim Yuna of Jaurim, Kim Jong-wan of Nell and Yoon Do-hyun of YB — all of them have been central figures in Korea's band music scene. I had long hoped to work with them and have been knocking on doors, sending proposals and this time it finally came together. Each of them has such a distinct musical identity, recognized by the Korean public, and they taught me so much throughout the production of this album.' From Kim Yuna, he learned the importance of how a vocalist interprets a song. Kim Jong-wan of Nell gave him detailed guidance on vocal technique. And Yoon Do-hyun, who gifted him the deeply meaningful track 'Still' — written during Yoon's own battle with cancer — left Doyoung with a strong impression of human warmth. The album's lead track, 'Memory,' tells a story Doyoung had long wanted to express. 'If memories had a life of their own, I think becoming a cherished 'recollection' would be their most beautiful conclusion. That's the kind of story the song tells.' Doyoung emphasized how vital his fans and the public are to his musical journey. 'Even as a child, I didn't want to be a singer just because I liked singing alone. I loved singing in front of people. This doesn't mean that I only want to sing songs that are bound to be commercial hits, but I do sing with the hope of being loved by many listeners. I need people who love my music.' Now 29 years old, Doyoung is aware that a hiatus due to his compulsory military service is inevitable, though the timing has yet to be decided. He expressed hope that fans will think of him during that time through his album. 'I wanted this album to be like showing someone my diary — something personal that you only share with those dearest to you. I hope it becomes an album that lets people remember me.' As for the upcoming hiatus, the singer confidently said he has no worries. 'Even if I take a break for a while, I'm confident I'll be singing for a very, very long time. I want to tell my fans — please don't be sad.'
Pink Villa
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
K-pop takes over June 2025: From BTS' J-Hope to ENHYPEN and ILLIT, check out unmissable summer releases
As summer heats up, so does the K-pop scene! June 2025 is shaping up to be a month packed with star-studded comebacks, exciting solo projects, and albums that fans have been eagerly waiting for. From powerhouse groups to rising rookies and soloists showcasing a new side of their artistry, the month is filled with fresh sounds and bold visuals. Whether you're ready to vibe to ENHYPEN 's mini-album, or check out new music from ITZY and ATEEZ, June has something for you. Solo projects from idols like Moonbyul and Yugyeom also promise to add variety, making this month's calendar stacked with diverse releases across genres and generations. Adding to the excitement, BTS' J-Hope is set to return with a high-profile collaboration just as the group celebrates their 12th debut anniversary. Meanwhile, rookie group USPEER is ready to officially step into the spotlight with their debut album. June 4 SPEED ZONE – USPEER (1st single album) June 5 June 9 Soar – NCT's Doyoung (2nd album) Girls Will Be Girls – ITZY (10th mini album) BEEP – Izna (1st single album) 224 – KISS OF LIFE (4th mini album) In a million noises, I'll be your harmony – QWER (3rd mini album) June 11 Floating Free - MAMAMOO's Solar (Single) June 13 GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3 – ATEEZ (12th mini album) Killin' It Girl (feat. GloRilla) – BTS' J-Hope (Single) June 16 bomb – ILLIT (3rd mini album) Glow To Haze – Kang Daniel (6th mini album) June 17 Interlunar – GOT7's Yugyeom (Album) ICY BBY – MAMAMOO's Moonbyul (Pre-release single) June 27 BEAUTIFUL CHAOS – KATSEYE (2nd EP) From emotional ballads to fierce dance anthems, June 2025's releases promise to light up playlists and dominate charts around the world. Whether you're a seasoned stan or a casual listener, there's something to look forward to every week. Stay tuned for more updates, teasers, and MV drops as these artists roll out their comebacks. And get ready to hit replay all month long.
