New mobile app lets Badger fans put themselves in the game

As the University of Wisconsin–Madison football players continue their Rose Bowl preparations, fans around the world are finding new ways to get into the action.

A free application for iPhone, iPod touch or iPad (iOS 3.1.3 or later) called “UW Badgers Personalized Photos” allows users to personalize a photo with names or a unique message. For 99 cents, users can purchase the resulting image and download it to their photo libraries for use as wallpaper — or anything else. Through ReplayPhotos.com, users can also order a high-quality print for display in larger sizes. A portion of every sale comes back to the university through royalties for scholarships.

Developer Replay Photos, already a well-known partner with UW Athletics, boasts a strong Rose Bowl connection through former Badger Kevin Stemke, now the company’s vice president. An All-American and recipient of the inaugural Ray Guy Award as the nation’s top punter, Stemke was a member of two Rose Bowl teams (in 1998 and 1999).

“Having a top-ranked football team is great, but there’s something special about the Rose Bowl,” says Stemke, who now lives in Nebraska with his wife, former Badger volleyball player Lizzy Fitzgerald Stemke. “I’m lucky to have a job that lets me share the passion and excitement of being a Badger with thousands of fans around the world. This app is another way to have some fun and celebrate a great season.”

The app is available for free in the iTunes App store; it is compatible with the iPhone, iPod touch or iPad (iOS 3.1.3 or later).