The Philadelphia Union jersey represents a unique American soccer story: a club literally willed into existence by passionate fans who refused to let their city be left behind as Major League Soccer grew. From the revolutionary spirit that inspired the team's identity to the electric "DOOP" goal celebrations that rock Subaru Park, the Philadelphia Union gear available at Soccer Wearhouse connects you to one of MLS's most distinctive and rapidly rising clubs.
The Philadelphia Union's origin story is inseparable from the Sons of Ben, the supporters group that formed in January 2007 with a singular mission: bring professional soccer to Philadelphia. Founded by Bryan James, Andrew Dillon, and David Flagler on Benjamin Franklin's 301st birthday, this grassroots movement started with just 8-10 dedicated individuals who believed their city deserved an MLS franchise.
The Sons of Ben embarked on an unprecedented campaign, spending their own money to create scarves, shirts, and magnets to market the group and their cause. They showed up at soccer events across the region, from New York matches to the MLS draft, chanting for a team that didn't yet exist. Their boldest moment came at the 2007 MLS Cup final in Washington, D.C., where approximately 90 Sons of Ben members convinced security they were supporters of a "Philadelphia team" and marched into the stadium, chanting and waving their flags for their non-existent club.
By 2008, their membership had grown to over 4,500, and they had received 2,800 season ticket requests. On February 28, 2008, their dream became reality when MLS officially announced Philadelphia as the league's 16th franchise. The Sons of Ben had accomplished what no other supporter group had done; they had directly influenced a league's decision to award a franchise to their city.
Ask any Union supporter what happens when their team scores, and they'll immediately break into "DOOP," the unique goal celebration song that has become synonymous with Philadelphia soccer culture. This distinctive chant, sung by the Sons of Ben from their home in the River End of Subaru Park, creates an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in MLS. When a goal hits the back of the net, blue smoke fills the supporters' section, tifos unfurl, and thousands of voices unite in celebration.
The Sons of Ben have developed a reputation for creativity and passion, even mocking opponent traditions with good-natured humor. During a memorable 4-1 victory over Portland in 2015, they brought a toy chainsaw. They cut slices of sandwich bread from a log after each goal, a clever twist on Portland's iconic log-cutting celebration.
The Philadelphia Union soccer jersey features one of the most historically significant crests in American professional sports. The rattlesnake coiled at the center pays homage to Benjamin Franklin's famous "Join, or Die" political cartoon, first published in the Pennsylvania Gazette in 1754. This powerful symbol emphasized the necessity of colonial unity and became a primary emblem of the American Revolution, appearing on the Gadsden flag and other revolutionary iconography.
The circular crest's 13 gold stars represent the original Thirteen Colonies, while the shield's contour derives from Philadelphia's coat of arms. The team's navy blue and gold colors symbolize the Continental Army's uniforms during the Revolutionary War, connecting the club to Philadelphia's pivotal role in American history. The light blue accent stripe pays tribute to the Sons of Ben. It appears in Philadelphia's civic flag, creating a multi-layered identity that celebrates both supporter culture and revolutionary heritage.
The team's motto, "Jungite Aut Perite" (Latin for "Join or Die"), reinforces this revolutionary spirit while emphasizing the unity that defines the club.
The authentic Philadelphia Union soccer jersey is manufactured by Adidas, combining the brand's cutting-edge athletic technology with the Union's distinctive visual identity. Adidas's AEROREADY moisture-wicking fabric keeps you comfortable during intense moments, while the ergonomic fit ensures maximum mobility whether you're playing or supporting.
The navy blue home kit features the striking snake emblem prominently displayed on the crest, with gold accents that catch the light and command attention. The jersey's technical specifications match those worn by Union players during competitive matches, delivering professional-grade quality to every supporter.
Soccer Wearhouse offers the complete collection of Philadelphia Union gear, including authentic match jerseys, training apparel, scarves, and supporter accessories. Whether you're heading to Subaru Park or watching from home, our range ensures you can represent the Union in style.
Explore more MLS excellence in our Adidas collection, browse our full soccer jerseys selection, or discover supporter gear in our soccer scarves collection.
Find your size and show your support; get your authentic Philadelphia Union jersey today at Soccer Wearhouse. Join the Sons of Ben in the River End, embrace the DOOP culture, and be part of an MLS club with a revolutionary spirit. Jungite Aut Perite!
