On Tuesday, from the Blast Furnace Room at SteelStacks in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, the Union unveiled the official name, logo and colors of their new USL affiliate.
As expected, in dark blue, red and gold, Union-owned Bethlehem Steel FC was born.
“We continue to believe in the deep history of this sport in our region and this is a tremendous way to pay homage to the past, while also reflecting the important role of the club in the Union family,” said Union owner Jay Sugarman, who wasn’t able to make the event. “Bethlehem Steel FC is the final piece of player development that creates a clear path to first team.”
According to the team, the colors of blue and gold are in place to represent the parent club, while red represents the Steel’s original history. In the logo, the Union snake is coiled around a Steel beam, joining the two clubs.
“The history expressed in the crest and colors come as a result of thoughtful deliberation and planning,” Union executive vice president Dave Rowan said. “We believe that the logo, colors and name respectfully pay tribute to the original Bethlehem Steel Soccer Club, while also reflecting the modern influences that the Union provide.”
The Steel will begin their inaugural season in March, 2016, and will play home games at Goodman Stadium at Lehigh University. The original Bethlehem Steel collapsed in 1930 but not before winning five U.S. Open Cup championships and earning the reputation as one of the most formidable and successful U.S. soccer teams of all time.
The introduction of the Steel is the latest step for the Union franchise, which is opening a training facility next to PPL Park in Chester, Pennsylvania and recently introduced Earnie Stewart as the club’s first dedicated sporting director (see story).
Philadelphia Union
"This is the most exciting time in the Union's six-year history," said Union manager Jim Curtin.