11 years ago today in front of thousands of passionate soccer fans, the world and Major League Soccer was introduced to Philadelphia Union and its logo and iconic colors. Below is the original announcement made by the club back on May 11, 2009.
PHILADELPHIA, PA -- Philadelphia Union was officially unveiled today as the name of Major League Soccer's 16th franchise by Mayor Michael Nutter, with City Hall serving as an appropriately historic backdrop for the momentous announcement. The region's newest professional sports team simultaneously revealed its logo and colors as the countdown to First Kick continues.
"This is a special day for our devoted fan base and the people of the Greater Philadelphia Region," said Philadelphia Union Chairman Jay Sugarman. "Were incredibly fortunate to have fans who understand the power of loyalty and unity, and our team identity draws its inspiration from them and from the importance these qualities have played in the history of Philadelphia."
Union references the original Thirteen Colonies, which established the foundation of the United States of America. The clubs colors are navy blue and gold, symbolizing the uniforms of the American Continental Army, accented by the lighter shade of blue found in the Philadelphia Flag. The primary symbol of a rattlesnake is derived from Ben Franklin's political cartoons and was featured in multiple editions of the Pennsylvania Gazetteduring the 1750s. The rattlesnake was utilized to emphasize the necessity of colonial unity and serve as a reminder of the danger of disunity. Franklin's rattlesnake gained enormous popularity and evolved into a primary symbol of the American Revolution.
"We were determined to create an identity that portrays Philadelphias vital role in the evolution of our nation - the Union," said Philadelphia Union CEO & Operating Partner Nick Sakiewicz. "Every element in our crest represents a product of unity. Our fans have proven they possess the type of passion that soccer is known for worldwide, and the culture of our organization will always be to embrace it. There isn't a single better example of the collective strength we are striving to achieve than the inception of the United States of America."
Complementing the rattlesnake, thirteen stars are displayed along the base of the crest as another nod to the Thirteen Colonies of the Union. The crests interior shield represents Philadelphia's Coat of Arms, which is found in both the Flag of Philadelphia and the Seal of the City of Philadelphia. Jungite aut Perite, a Latin translation of Join or Die, is featured in the club's secondary logo. Join or Die was displayed by Ben Franklin in unison with the rattlesnake to stress the importance of colonial unity.
"The key to any branding process is collaborating with the right creative partner," said Club President Tom Veit. "Silverman Group did an excellent job of helping us distill the true essence of our supporters and the Philadelphia region. Our crest embodies Philadelphia's influential role in the formation of this country and we're confident that it'll stand the test of time."
Philadelphia Union will play in a state-of-the-art 18,500 seat waterfront stadium in Chester, PA beginning in 2010. The stadium features 30 luxury suites, premium seating, an 11,000 square foot Stadium Club and a 2,000 seat supporters club section. Additionally, there is a built-in music stage for world-class music shows, interactive entitlement zones and large promenades surrounding the stadium for festivals and tailgates.
"Were pleased to see Major League Soccer add a progressive yet authentic soccer brand with today's unveiling of Philadelphia Union," said MLS Commissioner Don Garber. "We look forward to the club's debut next March and the rivalry with the New York Red Bulls and D.C. United."
Season tickets officially went on sale today, with seat selection determined by the order in which tickets are reserved. Ticket prices and seating configuration for the under-construction stadium were revealed today along with team name, logo and colors. Additional information can be found on the club's new website, philadelphiaunion.com.
The club also released an inaugural gear package of adidas t-shirts, hats and hoodies available for purchase at philadelphiaunion.com, mlsgear.com, eurosport.com, Angelo's Soccer Corner, Modell's, Dick's Sporting Goods and The Sports Authority.
"The addition of Philadelphia Union to the local professional sports scene is a shining example of the regionalism that I have spoken about since my time on City Council," said Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter. "With a world-class stadium set to stand strong in Chester, PA, and Philadelphia proudly emblazoned on the club's jerseys, the world will see the strength and unity of our Greater Philadelphia Region."
