Sons of Ben (MLS fan club)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Sons of Ben, abbreviated as SoB, is an independent fan club for the long-anticipated Major League Soccer franchise for the city of Philadelphia. The Sons of Ben group was created in January 2007 by Philadelphia soccer fans, using such existing MLS fan clubs as the Screaming Eagles, La Barra Brava, Empire Supporters Club, Raging Bull Nation, and Section 8 Chicago as models. The name of the club alludes to Benjamin Franklin, who was one of the most well-known Founding Fathers of the United States. He was a leading author, politician, printer, scientist, philosopher, publisher, inventor, civic activist, and diplomat who lived much of his life in Philadelphia and is buried at the corner of 5th and Arch Streets.
[edit] History of the Sons of Ben
The Sons of Ben fan club was created on January 12, 2007 by Bryan James, Andrew Dillon, and Dave Flagler. The name was suggested by Philadelphia Pro Soccer Foundation VP Ethan Gomberg. SoB is the first Philly MLS fan club, utilizing the colors of blue and gold, from the city's flag, until it assumes the colors of the team when it comes into existence. The fan club was created during a flurry of rumors regarding Major League Soccer's negotiations with investors regarding a Philly team. According to well sourced rumors, investor groups are interested in building a stadium in the city of Chester, Pennsylvania, on the waterfront and at an undisclosed location. MLS is supposed to make an announcement during the first quarter of 2007 regarding expansion. Other cities vying for teams are St. Louis, Cleveland, and San Jose.
[edit] Logo Design
lozenge - reminiscent of Ben Franklin's famous kite
skull and crossbones - an ominous, intimidating image, reminding us of our mortality (also a homage to pirates)
scythe - harkens back to the region's agricultural heritage
oar - harkens back to the region's nautical heritage
banners - a reward for valiant service
bifocals - Ben invented them, and they are synonymous with the man
key - guardianship and dominion, also works as symbol of Ben Franklin
lightning bolts - refers to ben's experiments with lightning
crack in skull - a direct connection to one of the most recognizable symbols of the United States, the Liberty Bell
