DAVIS, Calif. — The UC Davis water tower glowed in blue and gold during the Aggies' Homecoming football victory over No. 14 Northern Arizona on Oct. 11. As fans made their way home, for the first time they saw the tower light up the Davis skyline — a clear reminder that game-day energy doesn't end when the scoreboard does.
The UC Davis water tower has stood as an iconic part of campus for nearly a century. Originally constructed in 1957, it has long been nicknamed the "Touchdown Tower" due to its proximity to UC Davis Health Stadium — but now, that name is coming to life in a new and electrifying way.
When the university announced plans to repaint the towers, Athletics Director Rocko DeLuca saw an opportunity to turn a routine project into something symbolic — asking if the original "CA" mark from 1926 could be revived and restored. The request sparked a broader discussion of how the tower itself could become part of the Aggie story on game day.
With the addition of blue and gold lights, that idea became reality. "It's a simple but powerful way to connect what happens inside the stadium with the rest of campus," said DeLuca. "The lights give everyone, whether they're at the game or across town, a chance to feel part of the win."
The result is more than an aesthetic upgrade, it's a symbol of connection. The tower's updates bridge athletics and the broader UC Davis community, transforming a long-standing structure into a living, breathing part of campus spirit.
"Bringing back the 'CA' and lighting the tower took real collaboration," DeLuca added. "I'm thankful to Chancellor [Gary] May and our leadership team for their support, and to facilities management for their commitment to getting all the details right."
"The water towers are iconic landmarks here at Davis," said Danielle Shank, Senior Associate Athletics Director/Chief Marketing Officer. "Given their scale and location, they're one of the first things you see as you enter campus — an initial signal of pride and nostalgia for many of our alumni."
While the tower debuted during football, it will continue to shine for key athletics victories and special occasions throughout the year — including the upcoming basketball season — turning a campus icon into a bright new tradition for generations of Aggies to come. During the Causeway Classic against Sacramento State, UC Davis will also honor the individuals who helped construct the tower, celebrating its legacy and enduring role on campus.
Keep an eye out for the next time it shines, a reminder that the Aggie spirit stretches not only across campus but throughout the community.
