CT United
Branding CT United FC – Connecticut’s First MLS NEXT Pro Soccer Team
As someone who grew up in Connecticut and has been passionate about soccer for as long as I can remember, this project carried a lot of significance for me. From the first sketch to the final design, I worked closely with the Art Director to ensure that every detail captured the team’s vision: a modern, bold emblem that honors the state’s rich history while looking toward its future. Together, we went through numerous rounds of concepts, constantly refining and improving. This was a true collaboration that I’m proud to have been a part of.
Our goal from the outset was to create a crest that resonated with the diverse, resilient spirit of Connecticut. We wanted something that felt both familiar and forward-thinking—a design that captured the energy of the fans and the identity of the state. Inspired by Connecticut’s history and natural beauty, we incorporated elements like the Charter Oak, symbolizing the state’s defiance and resourcefulness, and the coywolf, representing adaptability and unity. The result is a design that speaks to the past and the future, connecting generations of soccer fans under one banner.
Design Process
Research and Exploration
The design process was both exciting and demanding. I spent countless hours researching, visiting local libraries in Connecticut to dive deep into the state’s history, looking for inspiration that would give the crest a truly local feel. We also studied other successful sports team logos, analyzing what made them iconic, and applied those insights to our own work.
Working with the Art Director, we developed a series of initial concepts, which we then refined through focus group sessions. These groups included local residents, soccer fans, athletes, and business leaders, whose feedback helped us refine the design and ensure it connected with the broader community. Each iteration brought us closer to the final version, which balances tradition with modernity.
The Symbolism
The Coywolves
At the center, two coywolves stand proudly, symbolizing resilience, teamwork, and the blending of urban and rural communities. Their intertwined tails form the shape of a figure 8, representing Connecticut’s eight counties and the unity of its people.
The Colors
The Charter Oak Leaves
Three Charter Oak leaves rest at the heart of the crest, a nod to the state’s bold act of defiance in hiding the Royal Charter during colonial times. These leaves are a symbol of courage and determination—qualities that we hope will define the team as it takes the field.
The Pathways
Finally, the eight pathways within the crest point upward, representing the counties coming together to form a strong, united fanbase. These elements work in harmony to represent both the proud history of Connecticut and the exciting future of CT United FC.
Park City Purple
Purple is associated with ambition and creativity. Park City Purple is a subtle yet profound shade that embodies the team’s aspirations for greatness and innovation both on and off the field.
Pitch Black
Pitch Black commands attention and represents the team’s courage, resilience, and unwavering determination.
Azure Breeze Blue
Azure Breeze Blue echoes the expansive blue backdrop of the Connecticut flag, the original version of which was made from azure silk. Blue, the color of harmony and unity, symbolizes the team’s spirit of community and collaboration with the azure hue evoking the sky and sea.
Mountain Laurel White
Mountain Laurel White is a tribute to Connecticut’s state flower. It balances the team’s color palette and symbolizes perseverance and achievement.
Final Outcome
The response to the CT United FC crest has been overwhelmingly positive. It’s been a great privilege to see something I helped create worn proudly on the jerseys of players and embraced by the community. This crest isn’t just a symbol of the team—it’s a reflection of Connecticut itself, its people, and its passion for the game. I look forward to watching CT United FC grow and succeed, knowing that this crest will continue to inspire for years to come.
Learn more about CT United FC here.