VERMONT LAKE MONSTERS UNVEIL NEW LOGO FOR 2014 SEASON

Speaking as someone who has been around this team since they were the Vermont Expos, I can't tell you how many times a fan would ask why the Champ on the logo was a grey serpent shaped sea monster and the mascot was a big and green.  Even after the name was changed to the Lake Monsters and adding a new green and blue logo, the difference was still apparent.

Don't misunderstand, I am a big fan of both of the previous logo concepts.  However, the logo that was unveiled Saturday bridged the gap between the logo and mascot.

"The logos and team identities of the past did not truly reflect the connection between team and mascot," explained Nate Cloutier, the team's General Manager. "We set out to adjust to match what our fans have come to know and love -- the Lake Monsters and the big, lime green mascot, CHAMP! We want people to think of CHAMP and the Lake Monsters when they see lime green, just like the connection with Crimson and Alabama, or Burnt Orange and Texas."

The new Lake Monsters logo features Champ swimming along with his head and tail breaking the service of the water.  Here it is!

The new game cap will feature Champ without the name underneath.

The batting practice caps will feature just Champ's face emerging.

While the primary logo features Champ showing his game-face, the team chose a friendlier look to appeal to the younger fans.  It is a cartoon version of the beloved mascot carrying his bat and a ball, ready for the game to start.

The Lake Monsters also launched a new series of merchandise today featuring the new logos.  Here are a few examples.

Check out these and more at the team website vermontlakemonsters.com

Between ballpark renovations and new logos, there have been a lot of changes for the Vermont Lake Monsters over the past few years.  Can't wait to see what else the future has to hold for the organization.

See you at the ballpark!