Atlanta United's 2017 Away Jersey: A Deep Dive

What's up, soccer fanatics! Today, we're taking a trip down memory lane to revisit a classic piece of Atlanta United history: the 2017 away jersey. Man, that first season for Atlanta United was something else, wasn't it? The energy, the excitement, the newness of it all. And what's a team's identity without its threads? The 2017 away kit played a massive role in defining that inaugural year for the Five Stripes. It wasn't just a shirt; it was a statement, a symbol of a club bursting onto the scene with confidence and style. We're going to break down everything about this iconic jersey, from its design inspiration to its legacy among the fans. So grab your favorite beverage, kick back, and let's get into it!

The Design Philosophy Behind the 2017 Away Jersey

Alright guys, let's talk design. When a brand new club like Atlanta United hits the MLS, they have a golden opportunity to make a splash with their initial kits. For the Atlanta United 2017 away jersey, the designers really went for it, aiming to capture the spirit of the city and the club's burgeoning identity. The primary color scheme was a stark, yet elegant, departure from the home kit's bold red and black. Instead, we saw a sophisticated blend of dark grey and charcoal, accented with vibrant Victory Red. This wasn't just a random color choice; it was meant to evoke a sense of strength, resilience, and a touch of urban grit, reflecting Atlanta's dynamic landscape. The dark grey served as a canvas, allowing the Victory Red to pop and symbolize the passion and energy the team brought to the pitch. It was a mature look, showing that Atlanta United wasn't playing around. The subtle pinstripes subtly woven into the fabric added a layer of class and reminded some of classic athletic wear, but with a modern twist. It felt professional, polished, and ready for primetime. The Adidas branding, always a sign of quality, was subtly incorporated, ensuring the focus remained on the club's crest and the overall aesthetic. This jersey was a carefully crafted piece of art, designed to be both visually striking on the field and a comfortable, stylish option for the growing legion of Atlanta United supporters off it. The attention to detail was evident, from the placement of the sponsor logo to the texture of the fabric, all contributing to a cohesive and impressive debut away kit. It was a bold statement of intent, signaling that Atlanta United was here to stay and make its mark in the league, not just with its play, but with its presentation as well. The choice of a darker palette also meant it was versatile, looking good in various lighting conditions and against different stadium backdrops, ensuring visibility and impact throughout the season. It was a smart move, balancing aesthetic appeal with practical considerations for a professional sports team's apparel. The overall design was a testament to the thoughtful approach taken by the club and its partners in establishing a strong visual identity from day one. The players themselves often spoke about how good they felt in the kit, and that confidence often translates to performance, so it was a win-win situation. It set a high bar for future kits, a tough act to follow for the seasons to come, but a memorable starting point for sure.

Key Features and Symbolism

Let's zoom in on the specifics, shall we? The Atlanta United 2017 away jersey was packed with details that resonated with the club's identity. The most striking element, aside from the color palette, was the use of Victory Red as an accent color. This wasn't just any red; it was the red of Atlanta United, symbolizing passion, energy, and the unwavering spirit of the club and its fans. It appeared in the Adidas stripes on the shoulders and sleeves, and often in the trim, providing a vibrant contrast to the dark grey base. Another subtle but significant feature was the inclusion of thin, dark pinstripes. These weren't overpowering but added a refined texture to the fabric, giving the jersey a sharp, sophisticated look. It was a nod to classic athletic apparel, but with a modern, sleek execution. The club crest, prominently displayed on the chest, served as the focal point, proudly showcasing the Five Stripes identity. The sponsor logo, American Family Insurance, was also integrated cleanly, maintaining the jersey's overall aesthetic flow without being too intrusive. For those who looked closely, you might have noticed a small detail on the inside of the collar: a depiction of the Atlanta skyline. This was a brilliant touch, grounding the jersey firmly in its city, representing the urban landscape that the club calls home. It was a hidden gem, a detail that only the most dedicated fans would discover, adding a layer of exclusivity and pride. The material itself was also noteworthy. As with most Adidas kits of that era, it was designed for performance, featuring breathable fabrics to keep players cool and comfortable under pressure. But beyond the technical aspects, the symbolism was key. The dark, confident colors represented the club's ambition, while the red accents injected the fiery passion of the supporters. The skyline detail was a direct connection to the city, fostering a sense of belonging and shared identity. It was more than just sportswear; it was a wearable piece of Atlanta's story. This jersey was designed to be a conversation starter, a symbol of unity, and a source of pride for everyone who donned it. It encapsulated the excitement of a new beginning, the grit of a burgeoning metropolis, and the unyielding spirit of a football club ready to conquer. The subtle yet meaningful design choices ensured that the 2017 away kit would be remembered not just for its appearance, but for the deeper narrative it carried, connecting the team, the city, and the supporters in a unique and powerful way.

How the Jersey Was Received by Fans

Okay, let's talk about the real MVPs: the fans! How did everyone react when the Atlanta United 2017 away jersey dropped? Generally speaking, the reception was overwhelmingly positive. Considering it was the club's inaugural season, there was immense anticipation for the kits. Fans were eager to represent their new team, and this away jersey delivered. The departure from the typical bright colors often seen in MLS away kits was a refreshing change for many. The sophisticated dark grey and charcoal base, paired with the sharp Victory Red accents, struck a chord with supporters looking for a more understated yet stylish option. It felt mature, professional, and distinctly Atlanta. Many fans appreciated the subtle pinstripes and the city skyline detail inside the collar, seeing them as thoughtful touches that demonstrated a real connection to the club's roots and its home city. It wasn't just a generic design; it had character and story. Social media was buzzing with positive comments, and photos of fans proudly wearing the jersey at Bobby Dodd Stadium (and later Mercedes-Benz Stadium) quickly became commonplace. The hashtag #FiveStripes or #ATLU was often accompanied by pictures of this very kit. It quickly became a symbol of the #SoccerWars era, representing the groundbreaking launch of a club that took the league by storm. For many, owning this jersey was a badge of honor, a way to say, "I was here from the beginning." It represented not just support for the team, but also a belief in the vision and potential of Atlanta United. The jersey sold exceptionally well, a clear indicator of its popularity. It wasn't just a purchase; it was an investment in the club's identity. Kids and adults alike were seen sporting it, proving its broad appeal across different age groups. It fostered a sense of unity among the supporters, creating a sea of dark grey and red in the away sections and even among the home crowd. The fact that it was the away jersey also added a certain coolness factor; it was the jersey worn during crucial road victories and memorable away trips, solidifying its place in the team's early lore. It became a collector's item for some, especially those who managed to get player-issued versions or signed memorabilia featuring the kit. The feedback often highlighted its versatility – looking good on the pitch, in the stands, or just out and about. It truly captured the spirit of the inaugural season: bold, stylish, and deeply connected to its city. This positive reception set a high standard for future jersey releases, proving that fans appreciate thoughtful design and meaningful symbolism. It cemented the Atlanta United 2017 away jersey as a beloved piece of club history, worn with pride by a passionate fanbase.

The Legacy of the 2017 Away Kit

So, what's the deal with the Atlanta United 2017 away jersey now? Even though it's been retired for a while, its legacy is still very much alive. This jersey isn't just a piece of fabric; it's a symbol of the club's groundbreaking inaugural season. Think about it, guys: 2017 was the year Atlanta United exploded onto the MLS scene, breaking attendance records and making a serious playoff run. This away kit was there for all of it. It represents that initial wave of excitement, the raw energy, and the feeling that something truly special was being built. For many fans, it's the jersey that got them hooked, the one they bought first to show their allegiance. It's a nostalgic piece, evoking memories of those early days at Bobby Dodd Stadium, the electric atmosphere, and the sheer joy of watching this new team compete. You'll still see fans rocking this jersey at games, especially during throwback nights or when the team plays away. It’s a nod to the OGs, the supporters who were there from the very beginning. It holds a special place in the hearts of many collectors and long-time fans, often sought after on resale markets as a piece of Atlanta United history. Its design, with the dark grey, charcoal, and Victory Red, has influenced subsequent away kits, showing how impactful that initial visual identity was. While Atlanta United has since released many other stylish jerseys, the 2017 away kit holds a unique prestige. It’s the OG away jersey, the one that set the tone for a club that prides itself on bold design and strong connections to its city. It’s more than just a retired jersey; it’s a reminder of where it all started, the foundations laid, and the passionate fanbase that has only grown stronger since. It stands as a testament to the club's successful branding efforts from day one, proving that a well-designed kit can become a powerful emblem of identity and belonging. The Atlanta United 2017 away jersey will forever be remembered as the kit that represented the bold arrival of a new era in Major League Soccer, worn by a team and a city united by passion and ambition. It's a classic, plain and simple, and its story continues to be told every time someone pulls it out of their closet to wear to a match or simply to reminisce about those unforgettable first few seasons. It’s a piece of history that fans will cherish for years to come, a tangible link to the club's exciting origins.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! The Atlanta United 2017 away jersey was more than just a uniform; it was a statement. From its sophisticated design and meaningful symbolism to its overwhelmingly positive reception by the fans, this kit played a crucial role in defining the early identity of the Five Stripes. It captured the spirit of Atlanta, the ambition of a new club, and the passion of its growing fanbase. As a piece of club history, its legacy is undeniable, representing the groundbreaking inaugural season that set the stage for everything that followed. It’s a classic that will always be remembered fondly by the Atlanta United faithful. Keep repping!