NEW YORK, N.Y. (April 6, 2021) – In celebration of Major League Soccer’s first season in 1996, the League and FC Dallas launched today a retro-inspired apparel collaboration – Since ’96 - with global fashion licensees Mitchell & Ness, the nation’s leading nostalgia company and New Era. Highlighting 11 clubs, the throwback line of clothing is an ode to MLS’ launch and commemorates the Dallas Burn along with the League’s other original clubs and additional participating clubs.
The Dallas Burn played its first match against the San Jose Clash at the historic Cotton Bowl in Dallas’ Fair Park on April 14, 1996. Learn more about the match at FCDallas.com/BurnDebut.
The Since ’96 collection features a Mitchell & Ness polo, sublimed mesh jersey, ‘90s color-blocked hoodie, a windbreaker jacket and long-sleeve shirt, as well as four types of hats from New Era: the 950 Jersey Hook, 2930 Ripped, 920 Fan Fave and the Winter Knit.
“After an amazing 25 years of Major League Soccer, we’re honored to launch our Since ’96 retro collaboration to celebrate the Clubs that laid the League’s foundation for its explosive growth,” said Carter Ladd, MLS SVP.
Showcasing 11 clubs’ – LA Galaxy, Colorado Rapids, Columbus Crew, New England Revolution, Dallas Burn (FC Dallas), D.C. United, Seattle Sounders, The Wiz (Sporting Kansas City), Vancouver 86ers (Whitecaps), Portland Timbers and San Jose Clash (Earthquakes) – the collection will feature an embossed ‘since ‘96’ hangtag. Clubs established in 1996 will also have a ‘founding club’ embellishment on the garment.
“As the leading sports nostalgic company, Mitchell & Ness is thrilled to be a part of the initial re-launch of the throwback MLS logos,” Kevin Wulff, Mitchell & Ness CEO. “Fans have waited 20+ years to see these marks reintroduced, and we can't wait to deliver this authentic product to market."
The collection is currently available at Soccer90, located next to the National Soccer Hall of Fame at the south end of Toyota Stadium, as well as the FC Dallas Fan Shop at Toyota Stadium. Slap bracelets will be available as a gift with purchase at both stores while supplies last and will feature the retro club marks in a ‘90’s-inspired pattern.
“New Era is excited to partner with MLS and celebrate its legacy by bringing iconic logos to life again through our Since 96 Collection,” said Tom Dickinson of New Era. “Fans will appreciate this product as it embraces the 25-year journey of the league’s rich history.”
The collection is now available in team retail stores, stadiums, Dicks Sporting Goods and online at MLSstore.com, with apparel prices starting at $30.
