I set out today to design a new crest for the USA national soccer, ehm football, team. As I researched our history, something our current crest completely lacks, I became inspired to create a crest that shows who we are, and our attitude as a nation and soccer team.

Perhaps my favorite icon of American history is the Gadsden flag and Benjamin Franklin's original "Join or Die" wood cut. It symbolized the 8 sections of the new colonies and the message was to unite. What could be more symbolic for the United States of America?

Of course, Nike Soccer has had the "Don't Tread on Me" graphic for a number of years now and I think it sums up what I would want to get across. I know, a lazy design quota right? I didn't design the crest, as it would be different if I did. Unfortunately, the research and reading I did, that led to what would be my direction for the solution, took up all the time I have for the design quota today :)

I am slightly embarrassed of our current emblem. It shows no history, and has that cliche soccer ball with speed lines. A little too clip art for my taste. It looks like a young, underdog logo. So much fun could be had. For now, I think the USA should adopt the Nike art direction.

Having said that, I will pursue a deeper exploration and design of what I would have the USA soccer crest be. The snake coiled around a ball shape is a start. Maybe add in the 8 sections like Mr. Franklin's original drawing. I would look into using a different shield, maybe a circle for the crest. Typographically I think a bold USA would be the call, without the "soccer". I would also explore a less cliche way to display the stars and stripes. Could get tough, stay tuned...

On that note, CONGRATS to the USA team for their 1-1 tie with England. Ball possession was almost even and the US looked like the more composed and poise team. Our defense was shaky at best and that needs to be addressed right away. You have to love hype and how it forms stereotypes. Although a tie with England is nice, they are far from a Germany, Brazil, Argentina or Spain. England's goalie mistake was no worse than the USA's defensive slip-up when England scored. That's soccer. Don't Tread on Me...