Philadelphia WPS Team Announces Team Name, Colors and Motto

Published on May 18, 2009 under Women's Professional Soccer (WPS) News Release


PHILADELPHIA, PA, (May 18, 2009) Philadelphia Women's Professional Soccer, (Philadelphia Women's Pro Soccer LLC), is proud to announce the official team name, Philadelphia Independence, to the city and its passionate sports fans. Along with this announcement, the team also unveiled its colors and official team motto. "Today's announcement marks the beginning of what will be a permanent and proud presence in Philadelphia professional sports," said David Halstead, Independence CEO/President. "Through its play on the field, support of its communities, and commitment to its fans, the Philadelphia Independence will earn the right to be called a model sports organization. Such an organization is deserving of the name Independence, and all the history, character, and spirit that goes along with that name."

Consistent with Philadelphia's storied history, and with the determination and persistence of the country's forefathers, the name Independence represents many of the admirable characteristics of Philadelphia, including foresight, leadership, bravery, loyalty to cause, and defeating common enemies. As General Manager and Head Coach Matt Driver explains, "the players will proudly wear the name Independence on their jerseys, as together we pledge our commitment to the fans of Philadelphia and to each other as we battle foes and make Philadelphians proud of the talent and toughness of the team. This confidence and attitude is illustrative of the tradition of Independence."

Additionally, the selected colors of yellow, steel grey and light blue each depict a representation of Philadelphia's history, hard-nosed attitude, and accomplishments. Yellow commemorates the Swedish settlers who first came to Philadelphia in 1638. Steel Grey represents the city's rich history in manufacturing and heavy industry. Light Blue is borrowed from Philadelphia's own city flag and symbolizes the proud work ethic of this city's blue collar heritage.

Philadelphia Independence will build its foundation on strong leadership and vision for excellence, as well as team work and empowerment toward creativity, just as our founding fathers did as expressed in the first three words of our country's Constitution. Thus, the parallel to our history brings the Philadelphia Independence official team motto, "We the People."

Philadelphia Independence will begin play in 2010 and has already announced the accomplished Olympic gold medalist, Staci Wilson to the position of Assistant Coach. Fans are encouraged to sign up now for season ticket requests on the official Philadelphia Independence web site, www.wpsphillyindependence.com. The web site will also provide updates and information about Philadelphia Independence team developments and activities. Sponsorship opportunities are also available and early sign on will offer sponsors the opportunity to grow and fully embed their brand in the full slate of opportunities available at the team's professional, minor league, and youth level programs.

With team name, colors, and motto selected, the Philadelphia Independence continues to strengthen its identity. The team is currently in the process of designing and developing the official team logo and crest. Details will be released in the near future about the unveiling of the official logo as well as player signings during an Independence Weekend announcement event this July.



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