When you come across the name Pittsburgh anywhere, at least two things come to mind – steel and American Football. Steel because of the legacy of the steel industry that has earned it the nickname ‘Steel City’. American football because they have one of the most popular and successful teams in the National Football League (NFL) – Pittsburgh Steelers. Did you know the name ‘Steelers’ originates from a local high school’s nickname, inspired by the City’s rich steel-making history? Now you know.
Chris Carter
The phenomenal team was founded in 1933 by Art Rooney and was formerly known as the Pittsburgh Pirates. Seven years later, they adopted a new name, the Steelers, a decision fueled by the team’s aspiration to connect with the local community more – and it worked. The Steelers fanbase has grown to be one of the most passionate to ever exist in sports. Have you ever heard of the Steeler Nation? Read on to learn more about them.
Some Background
For 40 years since their foundation, the Pittsburgh Steelers struggled, not winning any championships. It was not until 1972 when they won the AFC Central divisions under head coach Chuck Noll. Since then, they earned eight consecutive playoff berths, seven AFC Central titles and four AFC championships in six years. This was the beginning of their spectacular success streak in sports history, becoming the first team to win four Super Bowls and the only team to bag back-to-back Super Bowls twice.
Throughout this journey that started not-so-well, the fans’ loyalty and enthusiasm for the team have been unwavering. Though the team repeatedly lost, the following still grew and strongly supported them. In the 1978 team’s highlight film, the term ‘Steeler Nation’ was coined and became the official name for the legendary fanbase.
Their love for the team and the sport transcends boundaries, influencing more people worldwide to enjoy American football. It’s no wonder sites like Kongebetting have devoted themselves to offering safe and secure betting sites for fans who love such games to bet on their favorite sport and many others. They do this by giving reviews on the most popular betting sites, betting odds and betting tips, which adds a little thrill as they watch the games.
A Movement
The Steeler Nation undoubtedly fans the passion for football in Pittsburgh in many ways. Firstly, by their heavy online presence, where they hype the Steelers and share any information relevant to their games. In fact, they have websites for precisely that – What a passion. Additionally, their dedication to showing up for their games is clearly displayed by their sellout streak of every home game since 1972.
They also attend pre-season training to see their favorite players and organize football community events like Hall of Honor trivia contests. All these to show their commitment to the Steeler team. Their energy in stadiums is also very contagious, charging up the atmosphere with some of their game traditions that influence their team’s performance.
Cool Steeler Nation Traditions
Steelers' not-so-secret weapons, the famous yellow Terrible Towels, are part of the franchise’s DNA and are usually associated with good luck. A report from the manufacturers, Little Earth Productions in Pittsburgh, shows that they manufacture at least 250,000 towels every season. In every game, thousands of Steelers fans, regardless of age, wave their Terrible Towels in the air, charging up the energy in the stadium. This tradition began with broadcaster Myron Cope during the championships run in 1975 and has continued to this day. Interviews with several players have revealed that the tradition boosts the team’s juices, getting them up and ready to play.
Sean Brady/NFLPhotoLibrary
Steelers Myron Cope gave Pittsburgh the Terrible Towel and he is remembered whenever they wave in the air
As if that’s not enough, there is the ultimate tailgate experience, the pre-game ritual. Before every game, the Steeler Nation meets outside in the vast parking lots around Heinz Field in their signature colors: black and gold. They bring food and drinks and bond over a few games. Their rule – ‘Eat well, drink well, cheer loud,’ has helped develop more than a fanbase. It has built a family by providing a platform for people, old and young, to connect.
More than a Fanbase
Beyond the yellow towel-waving crew is a community that has grown to love and care for one another. They participate in charity activities together and show up for each other. For them, it's not all about football. They even carry football traditions to their social gatherings, like waving the Terrible Towels during wedding toasts, receiving newborns with them and even putting them in the graves of their deceased.
The players are also not left out. For the support the community has given them over the years, they are committed to reciprocating the kindness through the Steelers Social Justice Committee formed in 2020. Through the committee, they have managed to help ensure that the people of Pittsburgh have access to food, education, health facilities, legal means and many other resources to improve their lives. They have also funded 35 non-profit community organizations, such as the Urban Impact Foundation (UIF) to make their community stronger. If this doesn’t express the power of sports to unite a city, then what does?
