In the world of college football, few teams are as passionate and exciting as the Washington State Cougars. As the #19-ranked team in the nation, the Cougars continue to capture the hearts of fans across the state and beyond. For Cougar enthusiasts, the thrill of game day isn’t just confined to the field—it’s also celebrated in unique ways off the gridiron. One such tribute to this college powerhouse is embodied in special-edition diecast models of Embraer ERJ-175 commercial aircraft painted with the Cougars’ iconic colors. These models, produced by GeminiJets, not only capture the spirit of WSU sports but also highlight the fusion of aviation and team pride.
The Washington State Cougars: A Force in College Football
Ranked at #19 in the nation, the Washington State Cougars football team is experiencing an exciting era. With a rich history of competing in the Pac-12 Conference, the Cougars have consistently been one of the most competitive teams in the West. Known for their high-octane offenses and strong defensive play, Washington State has a loyal fanbase that fills Martin Stadium in Pullman every season. The Cougars’ tradition is rich with stories of upsets, thrilling victories, and dedicated athletes who play with pride.
The current season has added to this legacy, with Washington State continuing to make waves in national rankings. Fans, alumni, and the greater Cougar community have plenty to celebrate, as the program’s success extends beyond the football field, touching every corner of Washington state.
The Embraer ERJ-175 Aircraft: A Nod to Aviation and College Pride
As Washington State continues to thrive, the connection between the university and aviation has grown stronger. Alaska Airlines and its regional partner Horizon Air have long been associated with the Pacific Northwest, where WSU resides. A unique way to commemorate this partnership is through special-edition diecast models of Embraer ERJ-175 commercial aircraft. These aircraft are painted in team-specific colors, providing a perfect blend of aviation and sports culture. For Cougar fans, one standout is the “Alaska Airlines/Horizon – Washington State Cougars” aircraft (tail number N661QX), which is painted in a striking red and gray color scheme to match Washington State’s team colors.
This model, created by GeminiJets, is a tribute to both the Cougar pride and the strong regional presence of Alaska Airlines. The aircraft’s paint job features a red fuselage with a gray tail—perfectly capturing the school’s bold, energetic aesthetic. The Gemini 200 series diecast model, scaled at 1/200, allows collectors and fans to hold a piece of Washington State history in the palm of their hands. These high-quality, detailed models are perfect for any Cougar fan, serving as a reminder of the team’s soaring success, both on the field and in the skies.
More Aviation Tributes from Washington: The University of Washington Huskies Edition
Another exciting piece of aviation memorabilia for college sports fans is the Embraer ERJ-175 aircraft painted in the colors of the University of Washington Huskies (tail number N662QX). While this model is representative of Washington’s rival school to the south, it shares a similar connection to the world of regional aviation through Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air. The aircraft features a purple and gold tail, resonating with the Huskies’ iconic team colors. Produced in a slightly smaller scale (1/400), this version is equally as impressive as the WSU model, offering aviation fans and college sports enthusiasts a unique way to celebrate both the sport and the planes that serve the Pacific Northwest.
While the Huskies’ aircraft celebrates their own athletic achievements, it also highlights the regional pride shared between the state’s major universities and the airlines that keep communities connected. The success of Washington’s two flagship universities in the world of college football is a shared pride that resonates through not just local fanbases but also through the skies, making these diecast models a special commemorative item for any aviation or sports enthusiast.
Why These Diecast Models Matter
These limited-edition diecast models by GeminiJets do more than simply showcase a beautiful aircraft. They represent a unique intersection of two beloved aspects of Pacific Northwest culture: college sports and aviation. Washington State fans, as well as supporters of the University of Washington, have an enduring connection to their local community, and these models serve as a tangible reminder of that pride.
Moreover, these models act as a bridge between fans and the world of aviation. For many, the Embraer ERJ-175 represents not just a plane but the backbone of regional travel—connecting people from Seattle to Spokane, and Pullman to Portland, and beyond. By associating their school colors with this commercial aircraft, both Washington State and University of Washington fans can celebrate their local identity in a meaningful way.
A Win for Fans, Collectors, and Aviators
Whether you are a dedicated fan of the Washington State Cougars or a collector of unique aviation models, the special-edition GeminiJets Embraer ERJ-175 diecast aircraft are an exciting way to show support. With their high-quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and representation of the region’s beloved college sports teams, these models are sure to be treasured by fans for years to come.
As the Cougars continue to soar in the rankings, so too do the memories of their fans, represented by these one-of-a-kind collectibles. For Washington State, the sky truly is the limit.