Pennant (sports)

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For other uses of the term, see pennant

A pennant is a commemorative flag typically used to show support for a particular athletic team. Pennants have been historically used in all types of athletic levels: high school, collegate, professional etc. Traditionally, pennants were made of felt and fashioned in the official colors of a particular team. Often graphics, usually the mascot symbol, as well as the team name were displayed on pennants. The images displayed on pennants were either stiched on with contrasting colored felt or had screen-printing.Today, vintage pennants with rare images or honoring special victories have become prized collectibles for sporting enthusiasts. While pennants are typically associated with athletic teams, pennants have also been made to honor institutions and vacation spots, often acting as a souvenir.

[edit] Pennants as trophies

In Major League Baseball, a pennant may also be a flag displayed or flown specifically by a league-winning team. The last few weeks of the regular American professional baseball season are known as a pennant race. This is a holdover from the time (pre-1969) when the league championships were determined by the team with the best record at the end of the season.

See: National League pennant winners 1876-1900, National League pennant winners 1901-68, National League Championship Series, American League pennant winners 1901-68, and American League Championship Series.