TOLEDO, Ohio –Vice President and Director of Athletics Bryan B. Blair today announced the addition of Blaine Fridrick as the first-ever Associate Athletic Director for Creative Services and Brand Strategy at the University of Toledo.
Fridrick has 19 years of experience in the field of graphic design and art direction, including 15 years in the NBA. He served as the senior graphic designer with the Cleveland Cavaliers from 2009-21 and as the art director for the Houston Rockets since 2021.
"The addition of Blaine to our team represents a major step towards our goal of elevating our Toledo Athletics brand," said Deputy Athletic Director Al Tomlinson "He is an award-winning creative with a unique set of skills and a vision that sets him apart from others in the industry. Toledo Athletics has a compelling brand story and I'm excited to have him lead our strategy to enhance our storytelling efforts and digital presence.
"We're thrilled to be moving back to Ohio," said Fridrick, a native of Cincinnati. "I can't wait to get to work with the talented team at University of Toledo Athletics and push this brand to new heights."
A graduate of Bowling Green State University with a degree in visual communication technology, Fridrick has been working as a freelance graphic designer since 2005. Before joining the Cavaliers in 2009, he spent two years as a full-time freelance graphic designer for Landor Associates in Cincinnati.
Among Fridrick's numerous awards for his graphic design work are a National American Advertising Federation (AAF) Silver Addy Award in 2020, and a Cleveland AAF Judge's Choice Award in 2021. He is an eight-time Gold Addy Award recipient during his tenure in Cleveland and Houston, and has won 22 Addys overall.
Fridrick and his wife Elizabeth have a daughter Eliza.
Blaine Fridrick File
Professional Experience
Art Director, Houston Rockets (2021-04)
Senior Graphic Designer, Cleveland Cavaliers (2009-21)
Full-time Freelance Graphic Designer, Landor Associates (2006-07)
Education
Bachelor's Degree '06, Visual Communication Technology, Bowling Green State University
What they are saying about Blaine Fridrick
"Blaine Fridrick consistently brought his unique eye and boundless creativity to our team. His artistic vision not only elevated every project but also inspired and motivated those around him. I was incredibly fortunate to have such a talented and dedicated leader on our design staff."
-Jose Lopez, Senior Creative Director, Houston Rockets
"Blaine is a rockstar when it comes to creativity! His passion for building brands and visual storytelling amazes me and I'm excited to see what he brings in this new role."
-Kevin Johnson, Creative Director, Denver Broncos
