how did the detroit lions get their name

How Did the Detroit Lions Get Their Name?

The Detroit Lions’ name has a connection to a previous sports team in the city. When the Portsmouth Spartans relocated to Detroit in 1934, they needed a new identity. The team’s new owner, George A. Richards, chose the name “Lions” as a nod to the Detroit Tigers baseball team.

The Portsmouth Spartans Move to Detroit

In 1930, the Portsmouth Spartans joined the National Football League (NFL). Despite some success on the field, the Spartans struggled financially in Portsmouth, Ohio, a small city. George A. Richards, a wealthy radio executive, purchased the team in 1934 with the intention of moving them to Detroit, a much larger market with greater potential for revenue.

Choosing the “Lions” Name

Upon relocating to Detroit, the team needed a new name to reflect their new home. Richards decided on “Lions,” drawing inspiration from the city’s Major League Baseball team, the Detroit Tigers. He felt the lion symbolized strength, courage, and leadership, qualities he hoped the football team would embody. The Detroit Tigers, established in 1894, were already a well-known and respected brand in the city. Richards believed associating the football team with the Tigers would give them a strong foundation and instant recognition in the local sports scene.

The Lion as a Symbol

The lion is a powerful and iconic animal often associated with royalty, dominance, and bravery. These qualities resonated with Richards and his vision for the Detroit football team. He envisioned a team that would be fierce competitors on the field and a source of pride for the city of Detroit. The name “Lions” was intended to project an image of strength and determination.

Detroit Lions on Wikipedia

For more in-depth information about the Detroit Lions, including their history, notable players, and achievements, you can visit their page on Wikipedia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the Portsmouth Spartans move to Detroit?

The Portsmouth Spartans moved to Detroit primarily due to financial difficulties in their smaller home market of Portsmouth, Ohio. Detroit offered a larger fan base and greater revenue potential.

Who chose the name “Lions” for the Detroit football team?

George A. Richards, the owner of the team after it moved to Detroit, chose the name “Lions.”

What was the inspiration behind the name “Lions”?

Richards was inspired by the Detroit Tigers baseball team and felt the lion symbolized strength and leadership.

When did the Detroit Lions officially become the “Lions”?

The team officially became the Detroit Lions in 1934, when they relocated from Portsmouth, Ohio.

Has the Detroit Lions logo always featured a lion?

Yes, the Detroit Lions logo has consistently featured a lion in various designs since the team adopted the name in 1934.

Summary

The Detroit Lions got their name in 1934 when the Portsmouth Spartans relocated to Detroit and were renamed by their new owner, George A. Richards. He chose “Lions” as a tribute to the Detroit Tigers baseball team, hoping to associate the football team with the established brand and project an image of strength and leadership.