The name “Seahawks” has become synonymous with the city of Seattle and its NFL franchise, but the story behind the name is an interesting one. The Seattle

Why is Seattle called the Seahawks? || When did Seahawks move to Seattle?

Seahawks were established as an expansion team in 1976, and the process of selecting a team name involved input from the community and a bit of local symbolism.

1. Community Involvement: The team’s ownership group conducted a public naming contest to involve the community in the decision. They received thousands of suggestions from fans, and this participatory approach allowed the people of Seattle to have a say in the team’s identity.

2. 

   Why is Seattle called the Seahawks? || When did Seahawks move to Seattle?

3. Avian Inspiration: Among the suggested names were several that drew inspiration from the region’s natural beauty and wildlife. Ultimately, “Seahawks” was chosen as the winning name. This choice reflects the Pacific Northwest’s strong connection to the sea and the abundance of seafaring activities in the area.
4. Local Symbolism: The term “Seahawk” is not a specific species of bird but is a more generic term for various species of large birds of prey found in coastal regions. While not an actual bird, it represents the rugged and coastal nature of the Pacific Northwest.
5. The Hawk’s Eye: The Seahawks’ logo features an aggressive-looking bird of prey with a distinctive “12” on its eye, symbolizing the fan base known as the “12th Man,” who are considered a vital part of the team’s success. This unique logo adds another layer of local and community pride to the team’s identity.

In summary, the name “Seahawks” was chosen through a process that engaged the community and drew inspiration from the natural surroundings and coastal heritage of Seattle. It has since become an iconic and beloved symbol for the city and its football team.

When did the Seahawks move to Seattle?

The Seattle Seahawks were not a relocated team; they were established as an expansion franchise in the National Football League (NFL). The team was officially announced as an NFL expansion team on June 4, 1974. Seattle was granted one of two expansion franchises awarded by the NFL, with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers being the other.

The Seahawks’ inaugural season in the NFL was in 1976. They played their home games at the Kingdome, a multipurpose indoor stadium in Seattle. This marked the beginning of the Seahawks’ journey in professional football and their deep-rooted connection with the city of Seattle.

Unlike some other NFL teams that have moved from one city to another, the Seahawks have always been based in Seattle since their inception. Over the years, they have become an integral part of the city’s culture, drawing passionate support from the local community and fans across the Pacific Northwest.