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The New Faces of Concacaf + COPA is Here!
In this edition of The Forty-One Life we chat with the co-founder of Reggae Rovers and learn how the team that took TST by storm was born. We also rate Concacaf’s Copa America jerseys, catch you up on the hottest clothing drops of the past few weeks, and catch a vibe with Armanii
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On Tap This Week
FEATURE
The New Faces of Concacaf: How Reggae Rovers put on for the Caribbean at TST
The second edition of The Soccer Tournament brought all the heavyweights out, including ESPN’s Pat McAfee, and former NFL star (and Burnley FC investor) J.J. Watt along with Chad Ochocinco making his return.
It was primetime viewing when the schedule dropped and we saw that these guys and their respective teams were matched up together in the Group X for the group stage matches. Rounding out that group was a competition newcomer no one had ever heard of, a squad of Caribbean players called the Reggae Rovers.
In true American fashion, a team with no name among teams with big names got all the disrespect, and the trash talk was mutual. However, by the end of the tournament, the Rovers had everyone’s respect.
We caught up with Reggae Rovers founder and player Shane Malcolm to learn about the origins of the team and how their experience at TST
OUTSIDE // UPCOMING EVENTS
Photo Credit: Chicago Fire
Chicago Fire FC announced Thursday that pop/R&B superstar Jason Derulo will perform a post-match show following the Club’s August 31, 2024, match vs. Inter Miami CF at Soldier Field. The inclusion of a post-match show is part of the Club’s goal to amplify Chicago Fire matchdays, by enhancing the experience with lively and engaging performances featuring both world renowned and local talent.
By incorporating new, engaging entertainment elements, and building out the gameday experience, the Fire are striving to create a can’t-miss event – something that will grow the brand and new attract fans from Chicago and beyond. The inclusion of a post-match show featuring a major musical artist is part of the Club’s goal of putting the MLS experience on the same scale as other American sports leagues.
THINGS YOU MIGHT HAVE SLEPT ON
Neighborhood Sports Club repping for the USA in Paris at La PAC
ON THE PITCH
Ranked: Which Concacaf Country has the best kits at Copa America
We love a good kit ranking around here! With Concacaf competing in Copa America this year, we’ve got a new crop of kits to give our biased opinions on. We asked you guys (in the last edition) who had the best kits in Concacaf for Copa and here’s how things shook out:
1. Jamaica
Jamaica's new home jersey is presented in its rich national colors of black, gold, and green, with gold as the primary. The jersey's main panel features a hand-drawn and wax-painted graphic motif inspired by the island's Caribbean heritage. Jamaica's iconic doctor bird and lignum vitae flower are featured in the graphic.
The away jersey features a similar graphic from the home jersey in a tighter, printed design in the Jamaican flag's bright colors, to emphasize the look.
2. Mexico
The Mexico home kit is inspired by Mexican and Mayan mythology, which surrounds the majestic peacock. This motif is intricately woven into the fabric of the jersey. The peacock feathers, which represent beauty, resilience, and cultural richness, evoke a sense of pride and reverence for Mexico's storied past.
The mesmerizing AZTEC pattern that adorns the entire MEXICO 2024 AWAY KIT is central to its design. This intricate motif, inspired by the ancient civilizations of the Aztecs and Mayans, pays homage to Mexico's rich cultural heritage. Each intricately crafted detail serves as a testament to Mexico's ancestors' resilience and creativity, encapsulating their legacy in a modern form.
3. Costa Rica
The Costa Rica 2024/25 adidas home jersey’s design pays homage to the iconic cart, a traditional form of transportation that has become an emblem of Costa Rican identity. The passion red base is adorned with an intricate pattern of curved and linear figures in vibrant colors, drawing inspiration from the oxcart’s ornate decorations. The blue collar, reflecting the nation’s flag, adds an elegant touch to this innovative design that seamlessly blends art, history, and national pride.
The design of the Costa Rica 2024/25 adidas away shirt captures the essence of Costa Rica’s natural treasures and its privileged location between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
4. USA
The American Classic home kit reimagines a timeless classic design with bold details built for game-changing moments, while the jersey stands out with a distinct red, white and blue graphic rib design on a two-piece collar and cuff.
The American Icon away kit takes the colors of the stars and stripes to the future with a distorted design that stands out with style. The uniform features a subtle nod to the sash design first made famous by the USA’s soccer heroes as well as the fan-favorite 2014 away kit.
5. Canada
Canada Soccer unveiled its Nike-made national team home and away kits for the 2024 season on Monday, describing them as "inspired by tomorrow."
The home kit features a two-tone red design, "with a street-style Swoosh bringing back branding made famous on Canadian jerseys of the past," The away kit "reimagines a classic style of the past," with 13 red stripes down the center of the shirt representing the country's ten provinces and three territories coming together as one.
6. Panama
The Reebok Panama 2024 jersey is inspired by Panama's rich cultural heritage and pays subtle homage to the fabric of the painted cap, a UNESCO Intangible Heritage of Humanity and a symbol of national identity. Partnered with a new federation logo, these kits have a simple and clean look.
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STYLE
Legacy History Pride drops HBCU “Redemption” Kits as a part of their new Summer collection
One of soccer history's most recognizable looks inspired and pays homage to the first HBCU to win a National Championship in 1971 and 1974. In 1974, Howard University achieved perfection. The Bison, playing under the slogan, Truth crushed to earth shall rise again, completed a 19-0 season with a 2-1, quadruple-overtime defeat of St. Louis in the national championship game. After three years of turmoil Howard had accomplished its famous first--for the second time after being stripped of their 1971 for discriminatory practices.
Live Breathe Futbol releases full MLS collection
We want to send a huge congrats to our fam over at Live Breathe Futbol! They recently released a fully licensed collection with MLS featuring pieces for all 30 teams.
PITCHSIDE
Copa America: Argentina takes over Atlanta
Lionel Messi @ Copa America | Photo Credit: Matthew Dingle
Copa America 2024 kicked off in Atlanta at Mercedes Benz Stadium where Argentina faced off against Canada. Our Matthew Dingle was pitchside to capture the match through his lens.
More Copa America Pitchside Galleries
CATCH A VIBE: COPA AMERICA EDITION
Jamaica: Armanii gets the party started!
As Copa America 2024 begins, excitement builds not only for action on the pitch, but also for the cultural backdrop that accompanies it. For anyone following Jamaica in the tournament, Armanii is an artist to check out along with the games. His music, a vibrant blend of reggae, dancehall, and modern beats, echoes the dynamic energy of the Jamaican soccer team.
The synergy between Armanii’s music and Jamaican soccer can be felt. Both embody a blend of tradition and innovation, striving for recognition and success. As the team prepares for their Copa America campaign, Armanii’s tracks provide a powerful soundtrack, celebrating their roots and fueling their aspirations.
Armanii’s hits, such as "Outside", "Dubai", and “HAAD” capture the essence of Jamaican life: spirited and pulsating with rhythm. This mirrors the Jamaican national soccer team's style of play, characterized by flair, tenacity, and an indomitable spirit. Just as the Reggae Boyz aim to leave a lasting impression on the field, Armanii’s music seeks to make waves on the international stage, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Jamaica.
For fans of Jamaican soccer, exploring Armanii’s music offers a deeper connection to the island's heartbeat. His songs serve as a vibrant accompaniment to the team's journey, capturing the spirit of Jamaica and inspiring both players and supporters. As the Reggae Boyz eye glory in Copa America 2024, Armanii’s music has plenty of anthems for their quest to victory.
Armanii Essentials: