The First Jersey Sponsor in the World

Believe it or not, it was an American soap company in 1887. This week, we look at research that shows kit sponsorships might've first originated in 19th-century America. Plus, we scour through new World Cup job opportunities, remember a pivotal night at the Azteca, and much more.

This week’s stories:

• 🤫 Silencing the Azteca

• 💼 World Cup Job Openings

• 🧼 The First Jersey Sponsor in the World

• 🎉 Super League Inauguration

• 🗳️ Poll + Last Week’s Answers

• ➡️ And More

OUR HISTORY
Silencing the Azteca

Twelve years ago this week, the USMNT earned its only-ever victory against Mexico at the Estadio Azteca. It’s a brutal stat, but not an unexpected one.

For almost 50 years, this famed stadium was an impenetrable fortress, but on August 15, 2012, America finally made history.

That day, Michael Orozco was the hero in the 80th minute, handing Mexico only its 9th defeat in 120 matches at the Azteca. His lone goal helped improve the United States' all-time record in Mexico to 1–1–23.

Still, it’s important to note this victory only came in a friendly match, which means we’re still in search of our first competitive win on that fabled ground.

2026 WC
World Cup Job Openings

Is it your dream to work at the World Cup? Well, now you can make it a reality.

A few months ago, we shared volunteering opportunities that had just opened up for the 2026 World Cup. Now, FIFA has posted full-time job opportunities across a wide variety of fields.

From creative content roles to legal executive positions, there’s something for everyone. Check it out here (scroll to the bottom of their page for the latest listings).

COVER STORY
The First Jersey Sponsor in the World

It’s a shocking discovery. Most people attribute Germany’s Eintracht Braunschweig as being the first team in history to put a sponsor on their kits in 1973, but new research suggests that the honor actually belongs to the Fall River Rovers from Massachussets. And they did so almost 100 years before the pioneering Germans.

A small blurb in the February 23, 1887, edition of the Newark Evening News gives us the proof:

“The Rovers appeared in yellow shirts, across the front of which were the words Hargreave Manufacturing Company Rovers, navy blue trunks, red stockings, shoes and shin guards” [pg. 5].

This description is particularly notable because the Rovers were not owned by the Hargreave Manufacturing Company, which means this organization most likely paid for the privilege of being featured on these jerseys. It was unheard of at the time, and it might be the first recorded instance of an independent party slapping their brand name on a kit.

And what was the Hargreave Manufacturing Company? Well, the Fall River Directory from 1887 indicates that they made soap. And it makes sense if you think about it. What better place to advertise your soap than directly on players who spend 90 minutes kicking a ball through the mud.

Nevertheless, the trend didn’t catch on, and it seems like this may have just been an isolated event. Still, it’s evidence that we were the first to do kit sponsorships — 100 years in advance mind you.

EXPANSION
Super League Inauguration

The newest women’s professional soccer league in America kicks off this weekend.

There’s been a lot of talk about this league after the USSF granted it Division 1 status a few months back, and now we’re finally ready to see the product on the field.

Can it live up to expectations? We’ll get the answer soon. For now, here’s all you need to know about this new competition.

CLUBELEVEN
The Supporters Section

Drop your opinions and hot takes. We’ll highlight your best answers next week.

CLUBELEVEN
Aggregates

FIFA Backs Homeless World Cup: It’s a huge step for this wonderful tournament happening in September. Watch out for Mexico and the US, who currently hold the D1 and D2 titles in the women’s bracket.

CBA Approved: A great victory for women’s soccer in this country. The NWSL and the NWSLPA reportedly agreed on a new long-term collective bargaining agreement set to run through 2030. Expect an official announcement soon.

Midnight in Paris: After winning gold at the Olympics, the USWNT squad posed for an iconic photo that’s doing the rounds. It got quite a reaction from fans. We all want to party with them.

The Return of Miggy: Latest news says Miguel Almiron could be on his way back to MLS. What a signing that would be.

See You at the Coliseum: The Oakland Roots made a shocking announcement on Monday. They’re moving to a new home.

EVENTS
NSC Weekend

The Cali soccer events roll on, and it’s another great one coming up.

This weekend, our friends over at Neighborhood Sports Club will be hosting a kit release celebration and film premier across August 16-18. It’ll be the perfect way to unveil their jersey collab with MEYBA and showcase their latest short film.

Oh, and they’ll also have watch parties, wine tastings, and pick-up throughout the weekend. Just beautiful.

You can check out all the details here, and make sure to stop by if you’re in Oakland.

GRASSROOTS
No Lights, No Problem

Talk about an electric match-up. Nearly 200 people descended upon Manchester, NH, to watch and play in the second installment of this grassroots Concord vs Manchester derby. Amateur ballers and devoted footy fans leaving it all on the pitch and in the stands. Surreal.

It all took place in a little high school field, but you could’ve sworn it was the most prestigious stadium in America that night. It didn’t even matter that the light ran out by the end of the game and most had to squint a little to get through the penalties. The record books will say Manchester won the shootout, but the score didn’t really matter.

Truth is, the whole affair was a testament to how much soccer is growing in every little pocket of our country. More than that, it perfectly highlighted the dedicated soccer community Beech Street FC has been able to cultivate in New Hampshire. We can’t wait to see what they’ve got up their sleeve up next.

CLUBELEVEN
Your Takes 🗯️ 

Last week, we asked you if you’d ever won a title in your playing career. Here are some of your answers:

• “Yes, the 1985 US Open Cup with the San Francisco Greek Americans. I'm American and was lucky to play with this team.” - Toby

• “Yes, Icarus Cup champions in 2023. Unforgettable.” - D

In the poll, “Yes” won with 67% of the vote, and it’s an incredible honor to know we have a US Open Cup winner in our community. As much as the Icarus Cup means to us, Toby takes the cake for having the most impressive medal.

UP NEXT
Back Home

From Copa America to international club friendlies, the spotlight slightly shifted to our overseas visitors this summer. But we’re poised to jump back into the thick of things for North American competitions.

Plus, we have a few surprises in the works that we can’t wait to share with you. This fall is shaping up to be a big one.

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Have a great Tuesday!

Pablo