How They Got Their Name: New Orleans Saints

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Add the New Orleans Saints to the list of NFL teams whose name directly reflects their hometown.  As football season was in mid-swing in 1966, preparations for a possible NFL/AFL merger were taking place, as well as adding a new franchise.  The latter came to fruition on November 1, 1966, when it was announced that New Orleans would host the NFL’s 16th franchise.  Though that decision had been made about a week before, Dave Dixon (the key figure in bringing a team to New Orleans) persuaded the NFL commissioner to wait until November 1 to make the announcement, since it would be All Saints Day.  That may have been the first hint of the nickname to come.

Like many teams, a “name the team” contest was held, which drew nearly 5,000 entries.  “Saints” was the leading choice, chosen with 425 different submissions.  Though the team owners stated they would have the final say when it came to naming the team, they did want to put a big emphasis on what the fans had to say.  Two other things as well in New Orleans culture led to the fitting name.  The city has a long history of Catholic citizens, and the team even consulted the Archbishop of New Orleans for approval of the name; which he did.  And lastly, but perhaps most importantly, is the rich relationship between the city and jazz music.  Since New Orleans native Louis Armstrong recorded “When the Saints Go Marching In” in 1938, the song has easily been one of the most recognizable tunes in the area.  To incorporate the beloved song, the Saints were chosen as the official nickname on January 9, 1967 and the tune continues to be their fight song.

Garett