In June 2017, I had the opportunity to contribute my design skills to a project that blended creativity with community service — designing the official shirts for the K9 USPCA Region 12 Police Patrol Trials, held June 11–13, 2017.
Project Overview
Event: K9 USPCA Region 12 Police Patrol Trials
Date: June 11–13, 2017
Role: Graphic Designer (Front & Back Shirt Designs)
Collaboration: Officer Sam Bollman
Compensation: Pro bono
A Design for a Purpose
The K9 USPCA Region 12 Police Patrol Trials bring together skilled police dog teams from across the region to test their abilities, train together, and build camaraderie. For an event so meaningful to the law enforcement community, the apparel needed to reflect both the pride and professionalism of the participants.
I worked closely with Officer Sam Bollman to develop the shirt graphics, designing both the front and back artwork to honor the event and its participants. We aimed for a design that would be instantly recognizable, event-specific, and memorable for everyone who wore it — from officers to supporters.
Design Highlights
- Front Design: Featured clean, bold imagery and event branding for easy recognition.
- Back Design: Expanded with detailed event graphics, incorporating police and K9 symbolism to capture the spirit of the trials.
- Color & Style: Balanced a professional look with dynamic, eye-catching visuals suitable for both casual wear and keepsakes.
Giving Back to the Community
This project was done free of charge as a way to give back and support the incredible work of the law enforcement officers and their K9 partners. It was important to me that the design not only met the event’s practical needs but also served as a point of pride for participants.
Impact
The shirts became a wearable piece of the event, providing both a functional uniform element and a lasting memento. They helped promote unity during the trials and served as a conversation piece long after the event concluded.
Conclusion
Designing for the K9 USPCA Region 12 Police Patrol Trials was an honor — not just as a creative project, but as a contribution to an event that celebrates skill, dedication, and the bond between officers and their K9 partners.