 After McGilvrey's controversial firing in 1926, the new administration held a contest to choose a different team name and "Golden Flashes" was chosen, though no significance was included in the name.The first use of "Golden Flashes" occurred in 1927 after it was approved by the student body and faculty athletic committee.The school colors are officially defined as "Kent State blue" and "Kent State gold", which are shades of Navy blue and gold.