Get going. Don't know how they can stop anyone from using the #12

Since it is the fans that are being honored, keep flying the number 12, but change just one letter - we can be known as the "12th Fan".

Let them try to stop us. Just makes them look like idiots because they're capitalizing on the Hawks in the Super Bowl. Plus, we can outspend them in court.

Forget them! I should copyright breathing and blinking, and make Texas A&M stop doing that with my restraining order!

Whatever. We will win. #12 live on! GO HAWKS!

The reason A&M is trying to stop us is that they are totally retarded!!! It is a school for backward, Bush loving,inbred, brain dead retards!

Maybe they should consider a friendly game of football between the Hawks and Aggies,pro vs. college no brainer they loose. Since they can't beat us on the field then to the court room they go. There has to be a variable or a loop hole and I am sure Seattles attorney (s) will find them, that is the great thing about this country there is always a loop hole in the law. In our hearts and the hearts of the Seahawk players we will always be the 12th man so let them try!!! so like said in a earlier post WHATEVER!!!! WE WILL WIN #12 live on!! GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!

First off, what A&M is doing is idiotic and horrible pub. They could have made it a partnership with the Hawks and gotten some good pub about 12th Man. But for the Seattle fan who says A&M didn't have a clue about the Hawks having a 12th Man until the NFC Title game, that same person likely didn't have a clue that there's been a 12th Man in Aggieland since 1922. That being said, if the Hawks were 3-13 and still bottom-feeders, this wouldn't have happened. It makes A&M look petty. Partner up with the pros, send a few 12th Man towels to Seattle, show support for a fellow 12th Man team, and the Aggies come out looking great. Now, A&M athletics has its biggest national pub in a long time...and it's not good at all.

This is crazy! Do you see the Huskies trying to get everyone to stop doing the WAVE?? Give me a break!

This is typical of Texans... I guess it's something in the water there. A & M is a school for losers anyway.

Why is everyone from the state of Texas so stupid and shortsighted? They are always such an arrogant bunch of sore losers. Like it was said earlier, they could have teamed up with the Hawks and had a great thing going.

Like George Bush, lets be a bunch of redneck jerks and piss everyone off by just being Texan.. not much to be proud of.

i didn't know texans can count that high. they only have 8 fingers and 2 thumbs. #12 is just to high a number. i got one finger for them, i'm sure they can count that.

go hawks

First, let me defend Texans. Not all of us are Aggies (or George Bush supporters for that matter)- thank goodness for that. The University of Texas fans have been putting up with this type of petty sportsmanship from the Aggies for years. Hook 'em Horns and Go Seahawks!

I've never known what A&M stands for.....now I know....Asses & Morons.

This "Restraining Order" is a sad testiment to our society, where one tries to get rich quick using one of the 3 "L's". Lawsuits, Lottery, and Las Vegas. I am an NFC fan and will root for the Seahwaks Sunday (never really cared for the Steelers). You would think that Texas A&M stood to loose some money by the Seahawks using the "12 Man".

HOW ABOUT THE "12th" FAN OR THE 12TH PERSON AND F**K TEXAS

FIRST OFF,WE ALL KNOW THIS WAS NOT EVEN A FACTOR UNTIL THEY WON THE NFC TITLE.ITS EASY TO SAY WE WERE NOT GETTING ANY MEDIA ATTENTION UNTIL NOW,HOWEVER THATS FAR FROM TRUE,YOU SEE WE BEEN SOMEWHAT GETTING NOTICE SINCE THE SO CALLED G-MEN CAME IN AN GOT 11 FALSE STARTS.THAT NEVER WINING GAMES SORRY EXCUSE FOR A FOOTBALL TEAM KNOWS IT DID NOT BOTHER THEM UNTIL THEY SEEN AFTER 30 YEARS THE PRO FOOTBALL 12TH MAN ACTUALLY IS NOT GOING HOME AFTER JANUARY.DON'T HATE THE PLAYER HATE THE GAME.

Ok ... I'm Seriously Fed Up With This Childish Behavior From The Hillbillys In Texas...Bring It On Texas...C'mon Show Us How You Are Going TO MAKE US stop using the 12th Man, I'll Put A 12th Man On My BackPorch, On My The Bumper Of My Car, On My Computer Background...Keep Talkin That You Are Going To Do Something, We Just Know You Want "Attention" The 12th Man Can Be Shared, Stop Being Babies & Get Over It....Geezus!!!!

What the heck? is this their way of recruiting for the college? what a bunch of idiots! If the 12th man has been their trademark since 1922, what took them so long to figure out what it really means. They say everything is big in Texas, yeah i would agree. Big on IDIOTS!!

Being a life long Aggie and former student, I have never been more humiliated by an affiliation in my life. Not only is this asinine but completely moronic.

This is not a defamation of the 12th MAN, but an affirmation of the very spirit of the IDEA. So what trademark?

Some poor Aggie soul with money has been turned by the dark side of the Steelers and has found a way to try and disrupt our harmony. Don’t’ let it happen.

The 12th MAN is a power stronger than any trademark. It is a strength of the soul that is not bounded by any trademark, any school, any city, or any one person. It is a collective power of the competitive drive of the diehard fans of any team that believe they are a vital and important member of a team that, with their help, is meant for greatness.

NO ONE, NO COURT, NOTHING CAN STOP THAT POWER FROM REACHING ITS DESTINY.

As a former resident of the Lone Star State, I'm proud to say I'm from Texas... FAR FROM TEXAS!!! Yee-haw! Hook 'em Hawks... (ok, that's maybe a bit too much)

What the heck is with them? Who ever decided to do this now is so freaking retarded. I can't think of any possible reason for it. They aren't in competing markets, they play college ball, they have ugly colors...which by the way they also have a patone on..check it out http://finance.tamu.edu/licensing/faq.asp#colors

Honestly how do you patone a color..didn't God create color. They should know that in the bible area of the country. Texas...friendly....I think maybe the board of tourism in Texas should sue the university for hurting all the work they've done over the years.

I think this is nothing more then a school looking to make headlines in the biggest two weeks of media coverage this nation has to offer.

I understand they have sent two letters to the Seahawks one in 04 and then one at the start of the 05 season asking them to stop using the 12th man. I would ask where were they in 84 when the number 12 was retired?

I also question why they have not sent word to other NFL teams that use the term 12th man? Could it be that they are not in the Super bowl?

I'm a Seahawk fan I wear the number 12 proud,and will wear it for as long as Seattle has a football team. No judge in teaxas is going to stop or change that.

A final thought... They can have the "12th man" We'll just be number 12 I think that fits us better I know when I look around at qwest field on game day it's not just men I see going crazy for OUR SEAHAWKS!

GO HAWKS bring home the goods

WTF??? How can they do that. I think our state supreme court should overrule that Texass judge. (trust me, I didn't spell it wrong) I overheard that one Aggie saying we weren't respecting the 12th man and we were just rying to make a profit. Well what point do you have in puting a trademark on something unless you are trying to make a profit. At this point, I'm thinking we should have let Texas secede from the Union and then we should have declared war on it. What a bunch of BS. We should keep up with the 12th man just in spite of them. Also, I believe it is unconstitutional for a state to enforce a law in another state. Correct me if I'm wrong. Sure maybe he can enforce the use of the 12th man in Texas, but not in Washington.

I think that since there are many thousands of fans out here, we should now take that "12th man" away from A&M. We are a massive group of rabid Seahawks fans, and we should be known as "the 12th MEN".

I agree with Julianne at January 30, 2006 06:24 PM

IT'S AN EASY FIX - JUST CHANGE THE (M) IN MAN TO (F), WHICH MAKES IT ----------- THE 12TH FAN!

GOOOOOOOO....... SEAHAWKSSS......

SEAHAWKS WIN SUPERBOWL 40
Texas A&M Loose's AGAIN

We have had the 12th man for over 20 years and now the whores at A&M want their cut. I say put a 12 on anything you can find, and let em' sue us all. A&M should give it up and go back to what they are good at.......BON FIRES!!!!

Did I read Texas A&M patented the 12th man in 1990.? That is LONG after the Seahawks began using it. Grow up Texas A&M and don't be so petty, your jealousy is showing. "GO SEAHAWKS!!!"

I am a Longhorn so I don't really care what TAMU does but I will say that they were smart enough to copyright the phrase "12th Man". Can't really beat that in any court. Also, I saw a post that mentioned why they haven't fought other teams for using the phrase. Over the years, TAMU has done this exact same thing to the Buffalo Bills and the Chicago Bears. Both times they won. A copyright is a very strong legal arguement. I don't think Mr. Allen's money can get the Seahawks out of this one. Although it will be entertaining to watch him try. As far as College sports, I bleed Texas Orange. But for Pro Football, GO HAWKS! Kick some Steeler A$$!

Will someone please tell me what is so great about the phrase the twelveth MAN? Why not the TWELVETH SEAHAWK or SEAGAL or HAWK,(my favorite) after all not all the fans are men let Texas have their man

Here you go Hawk fans...I just sent this moron an email. Let him know what you think! Copy and paste and it will take you where you need to go!

http://www.aggieathletics.com/feature.php?type=1&Feature=335

good, i hope a&m prevails, this state needs to get a taste of there own medicine. and with a little luck maybe most of the population will get fed up with a&m and move back to california. how ever i am sure washington will find a way to come up with a new law about all of this.

Mary, respectfully, all the A&M trademark even arguably restricts is specifically the use of the phrase "the 12th man." It does not--and could not--prohibit use of the number 12, like you see the Seahawks doing. Also, there is something called the "fair use" exception in copyright law that limits the copyright. In any event, it's worth noting that A&M sought a TRO in some random BFN state court in Texas, and not federal court--kind of suggests they were looking for the home field advantage (no pun intended) and feared that a federal court wouldn't have granted their TRO.

Here is the guy Steve Moore that's quoted in the article saying that they are "just protecting our trademark." Give me a break!

steve.moore@tamu.edu

Hey, Texas A&M, GET A LIFE!!!
Your football team went 5-6 this year and never came close to sniffing a crumb of a Bowl game!! Looks like you guys need more than a 12th Man to help your sorry excuse for 40+ guys masquerading as a Division I College Football Team!!!

First, stop with all the blanket statements about Texans being idiots, shortsighted, and retards. Blanket statements about the citizens of a state with millions of residents based on the senior leadership of ONE school make you sound completely ignorant.

Second, whoever posted about the bonfire, shut your hole. Twelve people died in 1999. It's got nothing to do with football trademarks...leave it alone.

Third, this is, quite simply, two very passionate organizations with very passionate fans who are very passionate about their respective traditions. It's gotten to a point much further than it should have ever gotten. Who's "fault" is that? A&M's, probably.

If you're going to rail on someone on the leadership of the school. To rail on anyone else is, unlike all Texans, idiotic, shortsighted and retarded.

This is absolutely silly. I'm no attorney, but if we've been using 12th man since '84, how did they obtain a clean patent in '90? It doesn't sound like it was properly researched at the time. Not too surprising I guess, since Texans think the world begins and ends at their state lines.

Beyond that, I fail to see how the use of the term in Washington "harms" them in any way. What are the alleged damages? Our use is not robbing revenue from them, as I don't think Seahawks gear is a big seller in Texas. So what is this stink really about? Red-state rednecks striking out at blue Western Washington? Publicity for an also-ran hick school? Get over it!

Can we move on, please? This blog should be initiating threads more relevant to the Seahawks and the upcoming Super Bowl. Btw, if we switched to "12th Fan", how lame would that be? Answer: Very! It would open us up to all sorts of jokes, like "12th Fan? I didn't realize they had a full dozen."

So, how about those Seahawks? Remember... they're in the Super Bowl, dammit! Discuss amongst yourselves.

Those of you who think Texans are stupid morons should learn the difference between the words
'lose' and 'loose'. (As in, 'The Steelers will lose on Sunday' and 'Do you have any loose change?') And you have the gall to berate a college when any high school graduate should know the difference?

There is a lot of hostility here about Washington vs. Texas. I have lived in both states and those of you who use hateful speech about Texas show that you have never been there. I consider both states to be home. Use your intelligence and keep this blog focused on football. Keep your childish rants and insights into your lack of intelligence to yourself.

This is not a red vs. blue state issue; this is about football and trademarks, both of which involve money. The Seahawks hope to profit from their use of the 12th Man term and A&M wants to protect its use of the same term. There should be no politics involved in this discussion.

The Seahawks have done well this year and many Texans also support the Seahawks (since the state's two NFL teams haven't exactly been up to par lately). But to denegrate A&M's football record - if A&M never came close to sniffing the crumbs of a bowl game, which bowl games did UW and WSU go to this year? I think the two of them together had as many wins as A&M did (which wasn't that many).

Trademarks are not only good for a specific state. The trademarks in question are US registered patents and can be enforced in all 50 states and overseas territories. And defending the trademark in court must begin with the court with jurisdiction over the school, so there is no home-courting involved. If the case has merits, it will end up in federal circuit court in New Orleans, but it has to start somewhere.

In the words of Mr. R.L. King: "Can't we all just get along?"

Go Hawks!!! Beat the H*LL outta Pittsburg!!!

Let's not forget that beastiality is legal in Seattle and is alive and well. Maybe the Starbucks (can I say that word for fear of a law suit) guzzlin Paul Allen Hawks fans will think about that while they make thier remarks about somwhere other than Microsoft state.

Hey, the problem is the rally towels.

Using a "12" rally towel is too close to A&M's "12th Man" towels.

As far as I remember, Seattle had that tradition way before '84, I remember Pete Gross mentioning it in one of our first games that we (seattle seahawks) should incorporate it. & then as I recall Steve Raible mentioned something about looking into it. I don't ever remember Texas A & M ever incorporating that at all, unless it's on their merchandise

It has been 21 years since we first started using the 12th man, and from what I hear it took Texas A & M that long to finally find us up in the corner of the United States, people from Texas do not realize that anything West of El Paso is not just desert, but inhabited by human beings.

A&M is just mad because they can't beat the horns.

HOOK EM HORNS!!

Using the "12th Fan" instead of just a "12" or "12th Man" is just plain wrong. Besides that, it makes me wonder who the previous 11 fans were, and if there are any after the 12th Fan. Whereas with "12th Man" you **KNOW** who the 11 Men are to make you the 12th Man!

This is Bush league for the Aggies to pull this. But, as they say "There is no such thing as bad publicity." If this gets people talking about A&M, instead of the Burnt Orange, they will be loving it! My feelings are such that we retired the # 12 LONG before they got a trademark for use in intercollegiate sports. Last time I checked the Hawks were not a College sport, but instead the BIG TIME!

Yeah pretty sure that A&M's traditions go way beyond any seattle seahawks traditions started in '84. Ours started in '22. The only reason we waited to get a trademark on it was because we were commerating it. I know that for me, and the rest of the country, that this is the first time that we have heard about Seattle's so called "12th Man," because this is the first year that your team has been even remotely close to a good team, which the NFC can't measure up to the AFC in any event. So to say that we are just now complaining about it is bull, because this is the first time anyone outside of Seattle has heard about your 12, whereas, we have been known for the true 12th man for 80+ years.

By the way, A&M was one win away from a bowl. We lost to OU in the 4th quarter because we lost our QB. And I believe that our defense's (not to mention the "12th man's") performance is credited for preventing a Vince Young heisman trophy. We lost a few close ones, but I agree we had a poor year. But with a few diff. coaches, we'll be a better team soon. How did those huskies and Cougars do. I believe that the Big 12 prevails over the Pac 10!!!! GIG 'EM HORNS!!!

Do you know what is really stupid and idiotic? All of this hostile conversation over a couple of words. I personnally don't care what marketing title they want to give the Seahawk fans. I'm still rooting for the Hawks on Sunday, and that's all that really matters.

Bring us home a trophy Hawks!

Why is Texas A&M being childish? The 12th Man represents the fans whether it is the Seahawks or any other team!!! Maybe we should name it the 12th Player since Texas A&M is being such a cry bag!!

WOW. It is utterly ridiculous for Texas A&M to try to take away a tradition that we have had for the last 22 years. There is no way they should prevail in this situation. They can just forget it. The Seahawks fans ARE the 12th Man.

BUT, why do we have to go around BASHING everyone? I have always thought of Seahawks fans as the classiest in the nation. What is the necessity to put everyone down, even President Bush?

I suppose we should have KNOWN SOMEONE would blame President Bush for this. After all when there's no one else to blame for WHATEVER the situation, blame President Bush. Get off the President. This makes Seahawks fans look utterly ridiculous. NOT ALL Seahawks fans hate our President. This has NOTHING WHATSOEVER to do with him.

The true issue here is jealousy, but if they were so worried about us using the 12th Man, they should have said so LONG before we had been using it for 22 years.

Thanks. GO SEAHAWKS!!!!

What could be better than this really ? first our team doesnt get any respect for everything they ve done this year and now us fans dont get any respect either - doesnt that just blend us together as team and fans better than ever ? we are the best team and we are the best fans too ! what could be better ? BUT ! I for one will always be the 12th MAN no matter what those asses and moron s from down by mexico think - GO SEATTLE SEAHAWKS !

Turth be known, no one outside of Washington even knew you guys were using the "12th Man" phrase until this year. Your games were rarely televised because you could not sell enough tickets to satisfy the TV networks. But they started to win and guess what, all those so called 'fans' started buying tickets. I bet if the Seahawks slide to the losing column again you won't see those so called 'fans' anymore. A&M gets more TV time than the Seahawks ever did, up until this year. AND they sell out games on a regular basis even when they have a losing season. A&M actually puts the '12th Man' on the field to play. Every home game, a student is selected to be the '12th Man' He wears a uniform with the #12 and plays in the game. I don't see the Seahawks letting the fans get involved other than to pay a ticket price. A&M cares about their tradition and their fans, SINCE 1922!. Seahawks care about the money they can get from their fans. Not that I care. I will pay the price to watch the Hawks. They are awesome this year. I hope they roll over the Steelers but they don't need the '12th Man' phrase to do it.

How come seattle has to overdue everything. They take a slogan, song, chant, and turn it into something stupid. That's high school stuff probably made up by someone who never go's to games because they want to feel like there part of the action. This is all rookie stuff folks, I realize we don't have alot of winning tradition
here in Seattle. But you don't have to prove it every time.

It is sad that words can be patented. So much for Free Speech and Free Enterprise. GO HAWKS! DOWN WITH GREED! QUIT WHINING!

I am truly amazed at some of the comments made on this blog. I am an Aggie and Texas native who has lived in Washington for the past 11 years, and I consider both places to be my home. Thanks to those bloggers who have asked for nasty comments to stop - you've restored some of my faith in the people who live here. I just hope my 7-year-old son, a huge Aggie and Hawks fan, is never exposed to any of this! I worry about the "finger" that he might see from "John" (posted on Jan 30 at 8:18pm) if we're driving around with our A&M sticker on our car. Really hoping we can avoid that...

I think every store in the Pacific Northwest should flood the market with 12 man flags, wearing apparel, and other goods. So what, as long as it does not say Seahawks or NFL, who can prove what it means. The Seahawk Fans know.
I can see Texas having a problem with another University team using the theme, but a professional football team, this could be a stretch, since there is no overlap of conflicting interest.
Or why not use the "Nth Man". It could stand for the 12th man which we all know it does, or the 50th man, the 500th man or the 50,000th man. The support for the Sehawks, this season and past seasons, has not been one person but a collective fan support from both in and out of the stadium.

I really don't understand you seattle fans.... It is simple... Come up with something different to call yourselves. The 12th man is already taken, sorry. But again, what I don't understand is that you all think we are just now complaining. We have gone against the Steelers and Bears in the past and they have been mature about it. You think that you have had it for so long, but you haven't... WE HAVE!!! It is on our stadium...It is a part of our stadium... we don't just put up banners and flags everywhere... We have a statue that represents the 12th man... We indeed do use a walk-on to wear #12 each game to play on special teams and to represent the fans and student body. Seattle has just recently gained this national attention and been on tv, whereas we are consistently broadcast on nation-wide stations, as someone said earlier. We do consisitently sell-out our 87000+ seat stadium, which IS A LITTLE BIGGER THAN THE SO CALLED Q's 60,000. So we are not just now complaining, because you all are just now calling yourselves the 12th man... I wish you all could understand that and change what you call yourselves... IT'S THAT SIMPLE

I am one of those firm believers that Texas A&M is just trying to capitalize on the Seahawks success and publicity. First of all the Seahawks Fans (12th Man)had been called this for 6 years prior to them getting a so-called trademark. Was this done in a Texas court? Besides, they can't say they have never heard this term used for our fans before. Or has their football team had such bad players that none have ever played in the NFL? If their Alumni are suppose to be so proud why did not any of these (if there were any) players make a fuss before?

Underlying fact is that if one does not defend his/her trademark/copyright in court than they are liable to lose it. Therefore, if TAMU did not defend their claim to the "12th Man," then the Seahawks could buy them out and then sue Texas A&M for copying them. I don't think after 94 years the ol Ags are willin to give up their keepsake.

Sorry that Seattalites have to bear so much ill will towards our great state and university. Good luck in the Super Bowl. Shaun Alexander is a hell of a player.

I think there's room for both teams to use the slogan since they are not in competing markets.
It will be curious to see what the courts decide since we were actually using it before they applied for a copyright.

I'm not that attached to it anyway, I just want to see my Seahawks put in a good show for the big game!
GO SEAHAWKS!!

I went to the Dalls, TX newspaper and found this article by one of their reporters. I was quite surprised by other Texans attitudes about this.

PS - Use your KING 5 website login info to get in to the Dallas paper. It's owned by the same company.

Link;
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/spt/stories/013106dnspoblackistonecol.cea92c6.html

Go HAWKS!!!

The issue is actually one of defending a trademark. It is not about the petty use of the saying itself. Obviously with the recent newsworthiness of Seattle, it came to light. Otherwise, no one down in the area would even know about it.

The thing is, as stupid as the specific saying in question may sound, A&M MUST defend their trademark. If they do not, then they lose the right to do so in the future.

The real concern is some idio making a bunch of 12th Man shirts and selling them in College Station on gameday for example.

If they do not defend the trademark (win or lose), then they lose the right to defend the trademark against Bubba-Joe who sets up shop in a parking lot at A&M and trys to shell t-shirts out of his beat up Ford.

Everyone needs to get their panties out of a wad and see the issue for what it really is.

If they didn't sue, then they would not be doing their jobs. They have defended the trademark several times over the years for this same reason.

It is no different than the Seahawks going after some person who makes a bunch of merchandise with Seahawk logos on it, and tries selling them without permission.

Didn't someone do the same thing back in 1995 with "Refuse To Lose"? I just hope they never put an injunction on telling Aggie jokes.

I have been a hawk fan for the past 5-6 years and am unbelievably proud that our team is in the superbowl, however, this sucks. On the one hand we are the only team in the NFL to retire a #12 for the fans and we have had "the 12th man" since the early 80's. On the other hand we did not defend ourselves when A&M trademarked the term "the 12th man" in the 90's. I do not all the sudden feel unbelievable anger towards A&M because they are trying to defend their approved trademark. Although I see a great court battle coming up after the superbowl, as all of us in the NW feel very strongly that we have a coinciding claim on the phrase. I'm hoping Paul Allen will put up the money to defend this case instead of letting it go (i.e. bears and bills).

HAWK YEAH BABY...HAWKS BY 5

http://www.trademarxonline.com/licensors/index.cfm?fuseaction=licensordetail&lid=1

This site shows all the registered trademark logos that A&M holds...i looked through them and although i do see they hold a lot of 12th man logos not one of them is simply the number 12 which if you pay close attention to anything seahawks related...is all we use the number 12...we have a flag with 12 on it...we have jerseys with 12 on it...and while some of you Aggie hopefuls will point out that we have in some cases used the phrase the 12th man...are you hoping that you will be able to install a ban on any american using that phrase? don't think it works that way seeing as how the people at budweiser, coca-cola, pepsi, and a million other companies hold patents on their names but those names are routinely said aloud by millions of americans every year...i have looked around at seahawk merchandise and have yet to see any for sale that actually say "the 12th man" and seeing as how i do not see you hold the patent on the number 12 what are we really arguing about here? A school in pittsburgh holds the patent for the terrible towels, but you don't see the steelers or that school for that matter getting injunctions against any other nfl teams that distrubute towels to their fans...why is that? because there are distinct differences in what they actually have patented and what other teams are actually doing. I have also read in several articles that the patent held by the Aggies is for intercollegiate uses and merchandise...which obviously the seahawks are not... i think this is a show of stupidity on your part, possibly you have sent us warning letters twice before now, but gee, how odd that you don't decide to go to court until superbowl week, don't say it isn't PR related, or you would have done this sooner. The seahawks are not taking any financial gain away from your university...because you have nothing to gain from the sale of NFL merchandise anyway...let it go...maybe you should look at it this way...you should feel proud that your example has led the way for others to appreciate the unseen force behind their success, for without the fans...neither the seahawks, nor the Aggies would matter to anyone. If you don't have fans, you don't have anything and that is the truth.

Go Hawks!!! the 12 is alive and well!!

Actually the US Gov should go after Aggies for the sexst use of registering 12th man. they have a violation of the federal law using a derrogitory term as man.....Go 12th person.....GO HAWKS.....

I Hope Someone From Seattle Brings A 12th Man Flag To Let Fly During The Superbowl, Ha Ha, What Ya Gonna Do Now Texas? Don't Mess With Washington We'll Send Ya Back To Texas Wishing You Never Ever Messed With Us...Go Seahawks!!!

Texas A & M = Texas Assholes & Morons Thats What It Really Stands For...!

I just hope seattle doesn't go after that Bonfire Tradition. Does Texas have a patent on cheering
of laughter. How about on breathing, blowing your nose farting, gotta be one of these.

Here's a concept:

Before you post onto the blog, learn to spell. It really cracks me up to see you calling anyone who has a contrary opinion to yours as "ignrant", "sexst", and so forth.

Also, learn your actual facts before you spout off on things you only think you know about. This way we keep the blog relevant and can exchange freely our ideas about this.

Interestingly enough, the only winner in this argument is the media, who sell more papers, win more audience members by having this pointless argument continue on ad infinitum.

Go Aggies & Win The Super Bowl Seahawks!

ok seattle stop having opinions. you know because you live in seattle you no longer are entitled to an opinion. Oh yea I forgot you need to spell correctly in order to voice yourself in this drunken indian town. How's that.

Where's Texas Aggies Blog At? I Have A Few Things I Would Like To Say On There!!

I really don't think Aggies care if the Seahawk fans use the phrase or consider themselves the 12th man. Having a 12 on a blue flag seems a great way to represent Seattle's 12th man without infringing on A&M's copyrighted logo. Texas A&M is just protecting its property. It's no different than if I slapped the Seahawk logo on a t-shirt and tried to sell it without permission or payment to the Seahawks' organization. Think they'd let it slide?

Why so vile and why so hateful to the Aggies, Texas and anyone associated with us? Seems like some of you have bigger issues than just a debate over the 12th man. (I recommend professional help.)

Good luck Seattle Seahawks!! Gig'em Aggies

Statement Issued On A&M's Legal Stance Regarding 12th Man Trademark
Tuesday, January 31, 2006 -

The following statement by Steven B. Moore, chief marketing officer and vice president for communications at Texas A&M University, is intended to inform the Texas A&M community regarding the university's stance in taking legal steps to prohibit the Seattle Seahawks from using Texas A&M's 12th Man trademark:

To Faculty, Students and Staff:

As a member of the Aggie family, we want you to be as fully informed as possible of the university's position-and motivation-in taking legal action against the Seattle Seahawks' infringement upon the University's 12th Man trademark. Simply put, we believe we have no choice but to protect and defend in every way possible, including legal action, all of our trademarks-and none is more crucial than that of the 12th Man because of all it means to Aggies, those currently enrolled and to more than 275,000 former students. We are not driven in this matter by concerns about any lost revenue in the licensing process; it is simply a matter of principle-ensuring that nothing infringes on the 12th Man concept and its Texas A&M uniqueness.

It is hard for non-Aggies-and the media-to understand the depth of what the 12th Man means to Texas A&M, and, as a result, the institution is receiving some less-than-desirable attention in some quarters-certainly including the Seattle area. We certainly regret that this matter could take away from some of Seattle fans' focus at this particular time but, and especially considering Sunday's Super Bowl game and all the surrounding media attention, we must take definitive action at this time to protect our trademark. The timing could have been avoided if the Seattle Seahawks management had responded to our original requests-as did the Chicago Bears, Buffalo Bills and other teams in earlier such situations.

As a means of explaining the institution's position, we issued the following message to various media outlets Monday night in the hope of clarifying our concerns and giving a status report. We thought it might be beneficial for you to see exactly what was said:

"Texas A&M University certainly has no ill will towards the Seattle Seahawks; in fact we have Aggies on the team and coaching staff and we congratulate them on their splendid season leading up to Sunday's Super Bowl. However, we have the responsibility and legal obligation to protect the university's trademarks, which in this instance is the 12th Man. The 12th Man is one of our most treasured traditions, recognized by most as one of the most compelling in collegiate athletics. We have asked the Seahawks' management to cease and desist promoting use of the 12th Man trademark. Such letters were submitted in 2004 and 2005 requesting their compliance, but our requests have not been honored. Therefore, we have no other recourse but to take formal legal action, which we initiated today in the 85th District Court of Brazos County. A temporary restraining order that restricts the Seattle Seahawks from usage of the 12th Man trademark was filed today.

"Texas A&M has done everything in its power over the last 2 years to bring quiet closure to this situation. Our hope is that the Seahawks' organization will recognize our federal trademark."

OMG

We Didn't Steal Anything From You Aggies & If We Did We Won't Back Down To What We Have, Our 12th Man Is On The Top Of Our Space Needle, Its On T-Shirts, Bumperstickers, Hats And Your restraining order is a joke ...We Won't Back Down, We Are Going To Keep The 12th Man & There's Nothing Your Aggies Or State Can Do About It And So Get Over It!

If The Seahawks Weren't Going To The Superbowl Then You Wouldn't Be Making Such A Stink About It But Now The Seahawks Are Going Somewhere You Come Out Of Nowhere & Say We Are Doing Something Illegal...Thats Bullcrap & You Know It!

Tell Your Judge In Texas We said " Come & Make Us Take Down The 12th Man Flag Cause Its On Everything & There's Nothing You Can Do About it
What Are You Going To Do Put Us All In Jail? HA!

Hey An Aggie and a Seahawk fan : Why so vile and why so hateful to the Aggies, Texas and anyone associated with us? Seems like some of you have bigger issues than just a debate over the 12th man. (I recommend professional help.)

To That I Must Say, I Didn't Think You Could Make The Decisions What We Can And Can't Say On This Blog So Get Over It Little Man..I See You Sure Have A Big Mouth For A Little Man!

Will...I never said anything about what can and can't be said on this or any blog....I just find it amazing how hateful some of you guys are about something so meaningless in the whole scheme of things. Are you truly a mean and hateful person? It's a football game...a big game...but a football game and you want to take this opportunity to cuss, puff up your chest, be a big man and try to put down people you don't even know. The comment about "needing help"...it was uncalled for and for that I apoligize to you and others who were offended.

Here is what they base there restraining order on
(Items on Ebay) when I looked at the 12th man items most of them were from out of state

The team's pro shop sells replica No. 12 game jerseys and No. 12 flags, but A&M is specifically concerned about the sale and distribution of other merchandise, such as T-shirts and buttons currently on eBay that are emblazoned with the words "12th Man," including a Seahawks button that reads: "Thanks 12th Man."

Hey An Aggie and a Seahawks fan:

The reason us Seahawks are being "hateful" is when we make it too the Superbowl The aggies come up with some BS excuse of making a fuss over our 12th man flag ... Why didn't they make a fuss months ago when it was mentioned or when we raised the flag at our playoff games but Nooo a day or more after we beat up on Carolina ya'll raise a stink?

Seattle is not going to take down our 12th Man Flag & We will continue to post our 12th man items..nothing will change that...Is anyone else taking down or getting rid of their 12th man items?

I think Will is taking this too hard. Im a regular ol' seahawk fan and I think your a bit too pissed off about this.

Good luck with dealing with it, because if a judge orders the seahawks to restrain from using "the 12th man" then it will happen. What I think will happen is the seahawks will win in court in addition to the field. The 12 flag is nowhere near saying the 12th man.

Lets cheer for the seahawks insetad of bashing the other guys (aggies or steelers)

GO HAWKS!!!

RE: Texas A&M 12th Man lawsuit.
Having attended East Texas State University, and being a Seattle resident of 22yrs., I am also a long-time Seahawks fan. I think that lawsuit is such a joke! Speaking of jokes, and just for fun of course, I was thinking that maybe Hawks fans should pick up on an old Texas tradition -- enjoying Aggie jokes. Texas A&M jokes have been around Texas as long as Aggies themselves. Fueled by rivals swapping the jokes, they gained popularity in the 1960s after several joke books were published. Following are a few favorites.
GO HAWKS FANS!

Aggie Jokes:
What is the difference between the Aggies and Rice Crispies? Rice Crispies know what to do in a bowl.
Did you hear about the Aggie who won a gold medal at the Olympics? He liked it so much that he decided to get it bronzed.
Some Aggies were trying to scare the Longhorn football team before a game and threw firecrackers into the locker room windows. The Longhorns lit them and threw them back!
Did you hear that they outlawed "the wave" at Kyle Field? Two poor Aggies drowned at a game last year.
Ice is no longer available in the drinks at the cafeterias at A&M. The senior who knew the recipe graduated.
Did you hear about the Houston Cougar that transferred to A&M? He raised the IQ of both schools!
Why did they install Astroturf at Kyle Field? To keep the coeds from grazing.
A lucky Aggie won the Texas Lottery. When he went to collect his money they told him he wouldn't get it in one lump sum and that it would be spread over 20 years.
The Aggie erupted and said, "If that's the case, then give me my dollar back!"
Why do Aggie men like smart women? Opposites attract.
Why don't Aggies eat barbecue beans? Because the beans keep falling through the holes in the grill.
How many Aggies does it take to eat an armadillo? Three. One to do the eating, and two to watch for cars.
How do you sink a submarine which is manned by Aggies? Have a diver knock on the hatch.
How can you tell when an Aggie has used your computer? There's "White-Out" all over the screen.
Did you hear that Detroit was going to start putting the dimmer switch back on the floor in its new cars? Aggies keep getting their foot caught in the steering wheel.

While most Seahawk fans are happy that our team has finally made it to the Big Game, there are some like Will who seem to think that the Aggies are trying to take away their glory. Far from it dude. Do you think Paul Allen would let anybody take advantage of the Seahawks by selling their own (unlicensed) Seahawk gear? I'm sure his attorneys are out handing out cease and desist letters of their own, because you can bet there are people trying to make a buck from the Seahawks without paying a cent in royalties. If you don't think so, you live in a world of your own. We should stick with the number 12 and leave the 12th Man out of it, since 12th Man is a Federal protected trademark. Ask those who faced Starbucks in court how they managed. Now let's get ready for some football! Go Hawks!

Larry,

Here's another Aggie joke for you: Do you know who publishes the Aggie joke books?

The Gigem Press in Dallas (Aggie owned)

If you're going to have Aggie jokes, you might as well make a buck off 'em.

Rosie You Said "I think Will is taking this too hard. Im a regular ol' seahawk fan and I think your a bit too pissed off about this.

Good luck with dealing with it, because if a judge orders the seahawks to restrain from using "the 12th man" then it will happen.

The Judge Can Order Whatever He Wants But The 12th Man Has Not Came Down Yet, There Is Still 12th Man Things Being Sold In Stores & Online So That Shows That We Don't Care About What Some Judge Says.

I Liked Them Jokes But They Weren't That Funny Too Me...Hmmm I Did Hear A Good Joke..Did Ya Hear About That Lame Ass Lawsuit From The Aggies?

What I have yet to hear from fans and media alike is, in what real way could Seahawks merchandising in any practical way affect the sales of Aggies merchandise? I just don't see how there is any real infringement (violation of a right). And, the topic of illegal merchandise isn't even a part of the issue at hand. It would be nice if everyone could stick to the specific issue being argued in court, thanks. :)

I Don't Think The Aggies Are Trying To Take Away Their Glory..Even The Lawyer Was On The News Stating That The Aggies Can't Sue Us Over That 12th Man For The Simple Fact That There Are Other Teams Who Use That 12th Man & Its Not Illegal To Use It. ( You'd Have To Find The Story Online )

The 12th Man Is Not Federal Protected, The Aggies Think It Is When In Reality Its Not

Let's Get Real Here Also Do You Think Someone Is Going To Take Down All The 12th Man Flags Here In Seattle Or At The Superbowl This Weekend? Don't Think So

Here Ya Go Larry....

****************** MAIN ISSUE *******************

Texas A & M Whining That Seattle Seahawks Are Using The 12th Man Slogan

RE: Will
Got a ton of good ones, yet I am trying to abide by the Blog's comment rules. They are not meant for prime-time, and I noticed that there is no minimum age limit for bloggers. Of course, being a Texas native lends more significance to the Aggie jokes. Boils down to good old college rivalries.

One other thing -- Did anyone notice that the Aggie's Trademark was filed 6-years after the Hawks retired #12, and the Hawks had been using the 12th Man phrase for years before that? This question could be posed, "Can the Aggies legally aquire a trademark (1990) on a phrase that has been used by others for years prior?" Wouldn't that be an infringement on the Seahawk's 'common useage' of the term over many years? :o Just looking for insight from others. :)

Hey Will:

Good point. I agree -- It IS pretty petty!

Yeah It Is Pretty Petty...Such Is Life Right?

Temporary is the key word. Because they are moron and it will be not granted. The real fans of the Seahawks will prevail. Hey they can have the 21st man. Since they suck so bad. And who would go help the crappy Aggies. We are real and loud and we make a difference. Aggies keep whining because this will only make us stronger in being a unified 12th man.

So I See This Whole 12th Man BS Has Now Made People T-Shirts Read The 12th Fan, Way To Aggie Be A Bunch Of Cry Babies

Sorry When I Wrote My Last Comment, My Wife Was Talking To Me...What I Was Trying To Say Is..Way To Go Aggies, Make Us Change The 12th Man To The 12th Fan...You Know I Hope The Seattle Seahawks Beat Your Asses In Court...Hell I Just Might Fly There Just To See That Happen...You Guys Have Nothing Better To Do Than Be Whiney Kids Who Don't Get Their Way Or Don't Want To Share, All You Want To Do Is Boost Your Ego & Make Us Look Bad...

If the court battle is won by Texas A&M, they will have to figure out a way to deal with the fans still using it, because we won't stop. What are they going to do, have us all arrested or sue us if we keep doing it? I don't think so. That'll be a waste for law enforcement to enforce this because there are better things to do than to put all of us in jail. All it means is that the jails will be full of fans when it could be full of people committing real crimes and getting money from people that aren't even committing real crimes if they sue us. Get real guys and gals.

TODAYS HEADLINES "SEAHWKS MUST STOP STEALING FROM TEXAS A&M

Well, Well, Well looks like all you dumbass' were wrong again. Nothing worse than a bunch of thieves crying "how can they do that" I realize that the Seahawks have such a winning tradition and that shit hole we call the Buzzard Dome was just so loud that when the teams came there and kicked your ass all these years they were just terrified. I just wish we could win as many Superbowls as the Seahawks have. I also realize that the owner is so rich he can break laws steal from colleges and get away with it because we are so afraid of him. Don't you fools realize Texas has more money in the ground in the form of oil than that jerk could ever imagine having so bring his grungy ass on down to Texas and see what happens when you steal from us. Now it is obivious we are dealing with a bunch of morons that dont understand that Seattle has to obey the laws like everyone else. Since this dork has so much money why cant he buy a consultant team to figure out a way to give you your own logo.why not start with getting that stupid buzzard off thier heads. You Seattle fans should be smart like Chris Warren and A-Rod and move to Texas where you can make more money and be a real star because noone is impressed with Seattle. but I know that Seahawks fans wouldnt agree because they are not smart enough. Here is a thought to leave you with, You people can keep all that 12th man crap you made some day it may even be worth something as infamous collectors items. By the way would someone tell that computer geek to leave football to real men and get his ass back in that lab and find something to stop that black worm before it crashes the computer of people around the world. Oh I forgot the more pc's that crash the more money he makes charging for the new version of windows what else do expect from that jerk.

Let me get this right, Texas A&M has a copy righted logo and a tradition of the 12th man since 1922 and yet the Seahawks lays claim to it in 1984 and in 1990 A&M they had to copy right it because of mis-use. Now some how you people think A&M is wrong. Next time you go somewhere or watch a commerical you will see hundreds of copy righted slogans so what makes A&M's any different than Coke Budwieser Microsoft M&M's or count less others. The people in Seattle needs to realize that the owner isnt rich enough to fight the state of Texas or any other state. If the verdict comes to who has the most money he is in trouble because this isnt a state court this is the federal goverment now its thier law he is breaking not a Texas law or a Texas A&M law. Now i know that there is not an intelegent person in Seattle that really thinks they can win this case the Seahawks should of done what A&M asked long ago but they wont they offer money and if its declined they take what they want. That doesnt work in America people, come on now. I would just like to make a comment on what Seattle says this is all about "Tradition" Seattle has a loseing tradition everyone and thier grandmother knows it where is A&M has been around since 1876 and has a winning tradition sure A&M has lost alot of game but put that in perpective and you will find that A&M has won and lost more games than the Seahawks have played. In fact A&M has been around longer than the modern NFL and useing that logo. Now stop and use some common sense A&M has done alot more in the NCAA than the Seahawks have done in the NFL then you decide who is stealing from who. I cant see anyone wanting to steal anything from a loseing tradition and 1 superbowl apperance doesnt make you a winning team after stinking up the NFL for 30 years. And does anyone really believe that when Seattle retired the #12 for its fans they never heard of the 12th man at Texas A&M. And does anyone give A&M credit for saying "we dont mind the fans useing that slogan in fact A&M has had many players play there and bring that tradition with them" what Texas A&M does mind is that the Seahawks management is profiting off its product which any other company or business would of had them in court in 1984 with same results as A&M is having. So all you mad Seahawks fans better get use it because it's over that restraining order is the begeining of the end and if you want to paint 12th man on your face car house or what ever thats fine to just dont make money off something thats not yours its illegal. And for the ignorant people there in Seattle I would just like to say that you are making Seattle look like a bunch of uneducated morons that speak when they should listen!

Man this is funny...reading this blog, I have never seen so many "high society" Northwesterners mis-spell so many words while calling Texans hillbillies, rednecks, uneducated, whatever...Listen, if you're going to insult our intelligence, do it with correct spelling and grammer and lend some credibility to your comment. If you want to call us losers, don't call us loosers. If you want to talk about our patents, don't call them patones. The originality of the insults in this blog are matched only by the originality (read lack thereof) of the Seahawks' use of the 12th Man. Texas Aggie Class of '99.

You Talk About Us Not Being Able To Type And Use Grammer, Read Your Own Posting Before You Throw Stones "If the verdict comes to who has the most money he is in trouble because this isnt a state court this is the federal goverment now its thier law he is breaking not a Texas law or a Texas A&M law. Now i know that there is not an intelegent person in Seattle that really thinks they can win this case the Seahawks should of done what A&M asked long ago but they wont they offer money and if its declined they take what they want."

You Know We Were Doing Just Fine With Our 12th Man Slogan & Then Wow, We Go To Superbowl And We Are Getting All The Attention & We Have Something You Don't Like & All Of A Sudden We Are The Enemy...Would This Be Any Different If Didn't Go To The Superbowl? Yeah Probably, Would This Be Any Different If Had A Bad Season? Yeah Most Likely...And So It Breaks Down That We Have Something We Are Using You Texans Cry Like A Bunch Of Babies With Unchanged Diapers..Get A Grip!!!

By The Way...They Are Now Changing It Too The 12th Fan Which Is Bunch Of Bullshit...

Nice to see the texas delegation has arrived.

Yeah No Kidding...I Think They Need To Go Back From Where They Came From ... You Know Like Texas ....All They Are Is Talk ....Bring It On Fools!

Well you no class grungy Seahawks fan's have a new slogan 12th fan . Just who is this 12th fan. Will he be at the Superbowl? Is he gonna be dressed like a Seabuzzard?

Why dont you shut up and cry in your lattey and while your doing that read up a little more and you will find that this case will go before a federal judge in Houston. Stop being a jerk because your poor Seattle Seahawks got humiliated by a College.

Hey Will we did bring it on fool and now you have a 12th fan.

let's see how loud the 12th man in seattle is after getting throttled by the Steelers. face it seachicken fans, the only tradition you have is one of losing. get over it!BLAH BLAH BLAH

How About You Bring Your Trash Talking Mouth Up Here ...You Sure Have A Big Mouth ..So Stop Talking And Bring It On ... We Know You Won't Come Up Here...All I Hear Is Blah Blah Blah

I Don't Care If Its In Front Of Supreme Court Judge Or A Federal Judge, I Want To Be There When This Judge Throws It Out....

We Are Still Using The 12th Man & The 12th Fan, So It Don't Matter, You Are Not Getting It...We Still Have That Flag ... Nomatter What Its Never Going To Go Bye Bye...Can Another Seahawk Fan Break It Down For These Idiots?!

As a Seattle fan and a proud member of the fighten Texas Aggie class of '06 I think that everyone is getting way to worked up about this. A&M supports Seattle and wishes the Seattle the best, however the 12th man is a cherished tradition running back to a time well before the Seattle Seahawks. A&M is based on pride and tradition, and having someone use our tradition to market their team is not a good reflection on us. At A&M the 12th man is considered something special, it means that we are all there for each other, the fans are there for the team, no matter what. It means that even when we lose we have pride in our team, and we stand the whole game to show our support. The Aggies do not want their tradtion to be modified by the Seahawks, and we would expect the Hawks to show some respect. Unfortunatly, that has not happened.

I Have No Idea What Shell You Crawled From Under Shelly But If You Were A "Hawks Fan" You'd Know Nomatter What Happens In Our Games Lose, Win Or Otherwise, We Stick Together As A City And As A State...

I Might Also Add That Your Texas Aggies Are The Ones Attacking Our Blog...This Is Not The Texas Aggie Blog..Its The Seattle Seahawks Blog. We Have Every Right To Be Pissed Off If You Guys Attack Us....And We Will Continue To Fight Back & Also Considering NONE Of The "Aggies" Who Are In Texas And Are Posting On Here, Don't Back Up Anything They Say... Like I Said And We'll Keep Saying Bring Your Asses Up Here...Lets See What Big Words You Have Online That You Can Show In Person...Hell I'll Take Down Anyone Who Wants To Take Down Our 12th Man..Its Ours..Get Over It...

I Hope King5 Takes Off All The morons Who Have Caused Such A Riot On This Blog...Way To Go A&M Show Your True Colors...Your A School I Won't Ever Recommend A Friend To Attend Too..

You talk alot shit about Texas buddy why dont you bring your bad ass on down to College Station back up what you said. And your right we wont come there aint nothing there but a bunch
of idiots running thier mouth about what they are gonna do you chumps arent gonna do a damn thing but cry like a bunch of sissy's. But if you come here we will be more than happy to shove your 12th man and 12th fan flags up your ass.

If the case is truly being heard in Houston, it means an impartial judge (well, hopefully, the one originally assigned, Langley, was an A&M alum) and one who will listen to all the arguments. The Seahawks are not selling anything that says "12th Man" on it, they license the team logo to someone who might be merchandising that with "12th Man" on it. So, what, A&M is trying to say that makes the Seahawks liable? Just using a phrase, without it being printed on anything by the team, wouldn't seem to violate anything, but I'm not a trademark lawyer. The timing of this is most suspicious, and I really doubt that this "12th Man" bit has all the God and country significance to that school they like pretend it does, since it was the "marketing director" of the school who initiated this. The references to someone marketing Seahawk gear are irrelevent also, no one is using Texas A&M's logo or image. We're talking about a phrase, and it's worth noting that their trademark has the words "for intercollegiate activities" in it, a point the Seahawks lawyers will hammer on. Does anyone doubt that if there had been a couple of more zeros on the end of the $10,000 that Seattle offered Texas A&M to assuage their feelings that we'd even be talking about this? It's my view that a couple more zeros is exactly what they want out of this, then they'll be glad to talk "licensing". If they lose in court, they could be stripped of the trademark, which makes this all pretty risky for them. It's worth noting that there is a Texas A&M grad on the Seahawks Ring of Honor, and one on the active roster. Also two UT grads and a guy from Texas Christian.

Howard you have no idea what you are talking about if they strip A&M of this trade i will come to Seattle and start printing "You got the right one baby" and take the trade mark away from Coca-Cola.

This is a damn disgrace a pro football team bickering with a college. Thanks A&M you beat them mentaly now we will beat them pyscicaly. Doe's anyone in Seattle have any moral's you just dont steal from people. Its not nice. Come Sunday the whole country will know why you are fighting with a college the whole world knows that this will be the excuse you will use for loseing the superbowl. Now I am no Aggie expert but I do believe you picked a good team to steal a winning tradition from since you dont have one. This is just too damn funny who would ever believe that Texas A&M would spank a pro team for stealing from them and make all the Seahawk fans cry. Get a grip Seattle noone outside of Washington feels sorry for you noone believes a damn word your saying noone is dumb enough to believe you can take a federal trade mark from them. Wow whats next you gonna try to steal Bevo and call yourself National Champions.

College Station Huh? Interesting....

Last Time I Checked We Still Have The 12th Man Here In Seattle Flying Over Our Space Needle...

And No We Didn't Get Our Asses Kicked But I Will Let Ya Think That ....

Why are you people so hell bent on taking something that dont belong to you? Why is a pro football team thats gonna be in a superbowl in a few days so focused on a stupid flag flying illegaly over a so called space needle? It's my opion that the 12th man has done nothing for this team so why not let it be gone. Don't you understand what the 12th man means? The 12th man is a football player not a fan up in the stands waveing a flag. Also don't you understand that the Seahawks have to beat the Steeler's not the Aggie's? In case you dont know it the Steelers are a very proud team and if this distracts the players from Seattle they will get stomped. My advise to the Seahawks and thier fans is this, Focus on the Steelers they are the proven best team in the NFL and the NFC hasn't had enough talent to beat the AFC in a long time. It's no secret that the Steelers have the better defence anyone that can stop the Colts has to be considered the best team in football so leave Texas A&M alone give them back thier logo and carry yourselfs like professionals.

I find this funny....Makes me wonder what their real motive is...Oh Yeah..Publicity!!

From their Director of Athletics's weekly update.

"Further, he explained that while non-Aggies and some media have not understood the depth of feeling about this among Aggies, the timing is important because of all the national media attention to the Super Bowl. Below you will find a news release the University sent to media to clarify our position."

You idiot the 12th man doesnt represent any fan except for at A&M. When was the last time a fan from anywhere including Seattle came down on the field and played in a football game?
So lets put this "why now" crap to rest once and for all. Why now is because your sorry ass team couldnt sell a ticket before now much less sell anything else. Another reason is it's not our intentions to go after the fans we actually allowed the Seahawks fans to use this for years and instead of a thank you all we get is a bunch of ungreatful filthy stinking grungy idiots that wore out thier welcome. Learn before you speak .

Will said: I Have No Idea What Shell You Crawled From Under Shelly But If You Were A "Hawks Fan" You'd Know Nomatter What Happens In Our Games Lose, Win Or Otherwise, We Stick Together As A City And As A State...

Is that so, Will? I am a Seahawk fan living in Puyallup and I know that nobody sticks together up here. It is Seattle vs. the rest of the state. Take the voter repeal of the gas tax. It was King County that largely defeated the measure. And look at the governor "election" that Gregoire bought with King County votes. Seems that some folks east of the Cascades were talking about seccession briefly after that one. And even if you're talking about the Hawks... I have been to games where half the stadium was gone by the 4th quarter.

The only reason we're "together" behind the team is that they have the best record in the NFC this year and are going to the Superbowl. How many 12th Man fans were in the seats a few years back, between 1984 and this year, when we were unable to win a single playoff game?

But this year we are going all the way, and hopefully we'll have a great team for years to come. But you should not whitewash the team's bad years. It takes away from what we've accomplished.

P.S. Will you turn down the hype somewhat, Will? You're making us look bad.

Alright, I seriously was sitting on my hands to keep them away from the keyboard here. I didn't want to dive into the water, but my god you guys just don't know when to give it up. I thought I could give Aggies and Texans a chance to prove themselves that they actually know what they're talking about here. And no matter how much credit and slack I try to give them, they just keep proving me wrong.

Texas A&M started the tradition of 'The 12th Man' in 1922. This is the truth, and I'm sure you Aggies can't believe you're hearing this coming from a die-hard Seahawks fan. Nobody is denying you the fact that this whole tradition started in Texas. Say that you started it. It's yours; I'm not going to deny it either. But when Texas A&M has asked the Seahawks for a cease and desist order on the use of the 12th Man? I'm sorry folks, its time to sit yourselves down for a little history lesson, and a brief study in legal terminology.

The Seattle Seahawks and the term '12th Man' have been fused together since 1984, when the Seahawks retired the number 12 in honor of the fans. In 1990, Texas A&M trademarked the phrase 'The 12th Man'. 1922, 1984, 1990. You may have started it, but our 12th man history came into being years before you guys got the idea to trademark it.

For that brief lesson in legal terminology, here's this. Can you say intercollegiate? Because that's what your trademark for the 12th man applies too. Anything intercollegiate. Now I was hoping you folks in Texas knew what that word means, but apparently its several letters to long. It means that it only applies to any college or university institutions. The Seahawks are a professional sports organization, this is their job. The terms of the trademark don't even apply to them.

As for all of the hoopla about this issue now. Well what a surprise. The Seahawks make it to the Super Bowl, after the entire country didn't think they'd make it all year, and now that they've made it this far, Texas A&M decides to make a big deal out of it. Seems like somebody wants a little attention right now, because this shouldn't even be an issue. If Texas A&M wanted to make a big deal out of this, where were they in 1984, and even more so, where were they in 1990? They only care because the Seahawks are now in the national spotlight.

So as I wrap up this little discussion, I'd like to make a few more points. To everyone who's managed to keep at least a shred of self control on here, I thank you, and to the Aggies who agree that this is all rediculous, I thank you as well. To all of the Aggies who think we're stealing from them, get over it. We're not stealing, and if this history lesson hasn't proved that to you, well then I'm sorry there's nothing I can do, because ignorance is just plain stupid, and I'm seeing a lot of ignorance.

We haven't denied you. Don't deny us.

Ok I See The Mudslinging Goes On...

You Know This BS Childish Arguement About The 12th Man Is Getting Old...Aggies Threw A Hissy Fit Because We Were Using The 12th Man When In Reality They Should've Learned The Word "Share" I Know Its A Hard Concept .... * Sigh *

For The Other Person Who Said To Come To College Station & You Were Going To "Shove The 12th Man Flag Up My Ass" Yeah Okay So Now Remind Me Why I Would Have To Go There & You Couldn't Take Your Trailor Park On Wheels & Come Here? Ok Now Moving On To Other Things....

The "Hey Will" Person States In Their Post " The 12th man is a football player" Ok & So With That In Mind If Our 12th Man Refers To The Fans & Your Is About A Football Player...How Is That Illegal Or What Am I Missing?

Enough Said...Goodnight ... Ü

This is to help the Aggies understand just how "strong" the 12th Man is in Seattle. There's not as loyal fan base here like there is in Texas (but we still love the Hawks):

Love for the Seahawks abounds in the 'burbs
By Jim Brunner (Seattle Times)

Maybe they should be called the Burien Seahawks.

Sure, there are plenty of die-hard Seahawks fans in Seattle — even more in these bandwagon days. But to find the deepest blue-and-green vein, hop on Interstate 5 or cross Lake Washington. The suburbs are where it's at.

Football is by far the country's most popular sport, often marketed with a dose of patriotic, even militaristic attitude. You just don't find that sentiment in anti-war Fremont, the land of nude bicyclists and a statue of Lenin.

Consider the numbers.

Despite the "12th Man" flag planted atop the Space Needle, just 14 percent of people in Seattle identify themselves as strong NFL fans, according to Scarborough Research, a New York-based firm that conducts detailed surveys of consumer behavior.

The fan base is double that — 28 percent — in South King County. On the Eastside and in Pierce County, 21 percent follow the NFL and Seahawks. In Snohomish County, 16 percent. The data, based on surveys done before the Seahawks' playoff run, undoubtedly lag behind the current frenzy. But that also shows where the true Seahawk faithful reside.

If you think the numbers lie, consider this: None of the team's 19 official Sea Hawkers booster clubs meets in Seattle. Although two of the clubs include parts of the city, leaders confirm their membership is mostly suburban, and the groups meet in places such as Burien and Kenmore.

Why is that? Is Seattle too snooty for football?

For that, we have no firm data, but there are theories.

"Basically, a lot of the people living in the city right now are the latté group," said Jerry Martinez of Sequim, a lifelong Seahawks fan on his way to Detroit in his impossible-to-ignore motor home, the Seahawk Express.

"To them, going out and sitting in the coffee shop and having a latté is fun. To me, being in the stadium all day long shouting and hollering for the Seahawks is fun."

Martinez notes much of his "Seahawks family" — the most zealous, elaborately costumed and colorfully nicknamed fans getting so much media exposure in the run-up to the Super Bowl — also lives in the 'burbs.

You'll find "Mr. & Mrs. Seahawk" in Auburn and "Kiltman" in Everett. "Painted Hawk" lives in Fife, and "Cannonball" in Bonney Lake. Perhaps the most ardent Seahawks fan of all, "Mama Blue," aka Patti Hammond, who was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999 for her devotion to the team, lives in Shoreline.

John Rizzardini, Seahawks vice president for marketing, confirmed the team's fan base is strong in the suburbs. In fact, 42 percent of the team's season tickets are sold to people outside of King County, he said.

Rizzardini said the Seahawks are especially popular in military towns like Everett and around Fort Lewis.

"The game of football is closely tied to the military. It's a very patriotic game," he said.

Do we need to mention Seattle's Lenin statue again?

Perhaps not incidentally, Seattle's new City Council president, Nick Licata, made his name in politics opposing taxpayer subsidies for sports stadiums as part of Citizens for More Important Things.

Asked about the Seahawks, Licata detachedly recalled how he used to watch football as a kid. "It was interesting to watch them run around the field. It wasn't as boring as baseball."

But there is a lot to do in Seattle, a city known for its book-reading, filmgoing population. Most of the time, people are focused on other things.

"You always root for the home team, but I think most of the time they're unaware of them," Licata said of Seattleites. "They're not 365-days-a-year fans."

That's not necessarily true in cities with a deeper football tradition. Certainly not in Steeler-crazed Pittsburgh.

"Pittsburgh has a history of winning championships, so there tends to be a stronger bond between the whole market and a team when they have a history of success," said Whitney Wagner, a sports business instructor at the University of Oregon's Warsaw Sports Marketing Center.

"Pittsburgh as a city is defined much more by the Steelers and its sports teams. Seattle is defined by Starbucks and Boeing and rain and the Space Needle."

In fact, the market-research data from Scarborough last year ranked the Pittsburgh area as the No. 2 market in the country in percentage of football fans, with 41 percent of the people there identifying as strong fans. The Seattle-Tacoma region ranked 65th, with about 20 percent of the population.

But if the Seahawks pull off an upset victory on Sunday, who knows?

For the record, David Israel, the president of the Sea Hawkers fan clubs, does live in Seattle's Seward Park neighborhood. Israel said there used to be more fan clubs in the city, but they faded away over the years.

Israel said he sees plenty of Seahawks fans in the city. And if Seattle isn't known as a football town now, this year's success could be the start.

"I guarantee that's gonna change. Even if it is bandwagon fans," Israel said.

So Texas A&M, do you have a copyright or a trademark on the 12th man?

According to the United States Patent and Trademark Office, there is no Texas A & M 12th man/ Texas A & M twelfth man trademark listed...
Now I wonder why that is????

to all you seahawks faithful...and those who thrive on the joy of being part of our 12th man tradition...seems local wal-marts have brought in some new apparel just for us...property of "the twelth man" shirts are on sale now...maybe we should buy them now before they are banned by TAMU...ps and by the way for all you TAMU freaks who will undoubtedly jump all over that as being trademark stealing....they aren't officially licensed shirts made by the Seahawks or the NFL, most likely just someone who wants to prove to you that any city, any fan base can have a 12th man!!!

Actually Linds... 12th Man is listed with the U.S Patent and Trademark Office

http://tess2.uspto.gov/bin/showfield?f=doc&state=5sn06h.2.8

http://tess2.uspto.gov/bin/showfield?f=doc&state=5sn06h.2.9

So do some research next time.

Here are the only 2 live trademarks held by Texas A&M on the 12th Man...all others are dead...interestingly enough TAMU fans there is also a company out of Australia that holds a trademark on 12th Man....(BETTER START WRITING TO THEM AS WELL)and while we are at it....your trademark is listed as only consisting of 12th Man....the word "THE" is not specifically listed...so if we choose to promote "THE 12th Man" there is nothing you can do about it...

Word Mark 12TH MAN
Goods and Services IC 014. US 028. G & S: jewelry. FIRST USE: 19890000. FIRST USE IN COMMERCE: 19890000

IC 041. US 107. G & S: entertainment services, namely organizing and conducting intercollegiate sporting events. FIRST USE: 19220000. FIRST USE IN COMMERCE: 19220000
Mark Drawing Code (1) TYPED DRAWING
Design Search Code
Serial Number 74560726
Filing Date August 12, 1994
Current Filing Basis 1A
Original Filing Basis 1A
Published for Opposition October 24, 1995
Registration Number 1948306
Registration Date January 16, 1996
Owner (REGISTRANT) Texas A&M University INSTITUTION OF HIGHER EDUCATION TEXAS College Station TEXAS 778431230
Attorney of Record MOLLY BUCK RICHARD
Prior Registrations 1612053
Type of Mark TRADEMARK. SERVICE MARK
Register PRINCIPAL
Affidavit Text SECT 15. SECT 8 (6-YR).
Live/Dead Indicator LIVE

Word Mark 12TH MAN
Goods and Services IC 016. US 037 038. G & S: Bumper stickers, post cards and note cards. FIRST USE: 19840900. FIRST USE IN COMMERCE: 19840900

IC 020. US 050. G & S: Novelty BUTTONS. FIRST USE: 19840900. FIRST USE IN COMMERCE: 19840900

IC 024. US 042. G & S: Towels. FIRST USE: 19841100. FIRST USE IN COMMERCE: 19841100

IC 025. US 039. G & S: Hats, t-shirts, polo-type shirts, golf shirts, sweaters, shorts, and athletic uniforms. FIRST USE: 19830900. FIRST USE IN COMMERCE: 19830900

IC 036. US 102. G & S: College scholarship services. FIRST USE: 19650500. FIRST USE IN COMMERCE: 19650500
Mark Drawing Code (1) TYPED DRAWING
Design Search Code
Serial Number 74013898
Filing Date December 26, 1989
Current Filing Basis 1A
Original Filing Basis 1A
Published for Opposition June 12, 1990
Registration Number 1612053
Registration Date September 4, 1990
Owner (REGISTRANT) Texas A & M University Institution of higher education TEXAS College Station TEXAS 77843
Attorney of Record Molly Buck Richard
Type of Mark TRADEMARK. SERVICE MARK
Register PRINCIPAL
Affidavit Text SECT 15. SECT 8 (6-YR). SECTION 8(10-YR) 20010221.
Renewal 1ST RENEWAL 20010221
Live/Dead Indicator LIVE

to see for yourselves go here:
http://tess2.uspto.gov/bin/showfield?f=toc&state=h7orms.1.1&p_search=searchss&p_L=50&BackReference=&p_plural=yes&p_s_PARA1=&p_tagrepl%7E%3A=PARA1%24LD&expr=PARA1+AND+PARA2&p_s_PARA2=12th+Man&p_tagrepl%7E%3A=PARA2%24COMB&p_op_ALL=AND&a_default=search&a_search=Submit+Query&a_search=Submit+Query

What is really funny about all this Texans getting there panties in a wad about the Seahawks stealing there slogan...they stole it from cricket. The 12th man has always been used in cricket to denote someone who was ready to go in and play when one of the other 11 players were injured. Funny aTm and stole the premise of which the idea is based.

It has been used in cricket since the mid-19th century, just look at the international cricket rules handbook. You are the thieves Texas, not us.

Read this from the official crickett handbook:

2.2 Replacement Players (Trial Playing Condition)
The following shall apply in addition to the provisions of Law 2
2.2.1 The replacement of one of the starting players in each side shall
be permitted during the course of a match in accordance with the
following provisions.
2.2.2 Only the nominated 12th man shall be the replacement player.
2.2.3The replacement player should be distinguished from a substitute
as defined in the Laws. The nominated 12th man shall be entitled
to act as a substitute as defined in the Laws until such time as he
is utilised as the replacement player.
2.2.4 A starting player may be replaced due to injury or for
tactical reasons.
2.2.5 A replaced player shall not be entitled to take any further part
in the match save as the substitute fielder in accordance with the Law.

We don't play cricket in America. Go back to England.

looks like texas is a lil bit whiny today. give it up, you guys suck, nobody cares about you

Hey Ag07,
I DID do some research but I used the wrong words to search...see I put in Texas A&M 12th man and NOTHING came up but thanks for the info it was very helpful in showing that you guys don't have anything to whine about-your trademark which you so kindly shared states that it is for intercollegiate use-nothing to do with professional sports.
Also USA--are you an aggie? You guys sure don't like it when the shoe is on the other foot with regards to who used the 12th man phrase first do ya??? You got it from the Brits, so it's NOT an original A & M idea is it??

Given the recent uproar by Texas A&M over the use of the 12th Man slogan, thought you could use help with some other ideas. Try these...

Seahawks - The Ultimate Driving Machine
Seahawks - We'll leave the light on
Seahawks - It's the real thing
Must See Seahawks
iHawks
Seahawks - Can you hear me now?
Seahawks - The new generation
Seahawks - Don't leave home without it
Seahawks - They're Grrrrrreat!
Seahawks - You're in good hands
Seahawks - Your potential. Our Passion
Seahawks - Because I'm worth it
Seahawks - A little dab'll do ya
Seahawks - Plop Plop Fizz Fizz Oh what a relief it is
Seahawks - Reach out and touch someone
Seahawks - Keeps on going and going and going...

Just trying to add a little humor.

Gig 'em Seahawks

Does anybody here remember who the real "enemy" is? How about Pittsburgh? The Seahawks aren't playing the Aggies, and there's a lot of trash talking going on in other entries of this blog about Seattle in general and about the Seahawks. SI columnist gives Seattle the needle has 1 comment and the Stevens-Porter flap only has 32 while the three 12th Man blogs have hundreds. Do you rabid Seahawk fans want to win the BCS or the Superbowl? Get your game faces on and start talking trash on the right topics.

Linds,

I live in Tacoma and I'm a Seahawk fan (with a brain). US trademark laws don't apply overseas, and trademarks and patents overseas (as in UK and Australia) do not apply here. I don't see how your 12 Man cricket remarks bring any useful information to the discussion.

did the same guy that thought up 12th man for A and M come up with horned frogs too ?

Yo USA,
I don't believe I said ANYTHING about copy right, trademarks or patents with regards to cricket..
You may have a brain but you obviously are challenged at using it. All the comments made by myself and a couple of others stated that Texas A & M did not come up with the 12th man phrase as they claim, it was in exsistence for a long time before 1922

I think USA's comments are typical of a person who has been put in his place. USA, Jackass, I know trademark laws do not apply to international entities. My point was that you whiny ass aTm fans are crying about how we stole your idea and we are so unoriginal. It seems like the shoe is on the other foot and all you can do is try and say anything to make yourself look good. You stole the idea from someone else, from another country none-the-less, and now you have nothing to say. Shut the hell up and get off this post retard.

Hawkfan37 and Linds,

Your sophomoric attacks show your lack of intelligence and class. My whole point is that "Seahawk" fans like you two do not bring anything to the table. Maybe if you had finished high school, you would know what you're talking about...Oh wait, you're still in high school, aren't you. Now it isn't enough for you to be slamming Aggies, but you're also slamming fellow Seahawk fans. Maybe you should save your taunts for the Steelers, since that's who we're playing.

Hey USA,
-I wasn't slamming the Seahawks fans-it was you. You miss the whole point. "People in glass houses shouldn't throw rocks". You said that you had a brain and implied that others (myself) included did not. So you shouldn't start the slamming if you don't like what is going to get thrown back at you. and you are still doing it..well I for one feel sorry for you and because your attacks on what you believe is my level of intelligence are inaccurate, it is not worth any more of my time responding to your narrow thoughts.

USA,

I am willing to wager my education against yours any day of the week. I think that you are the one that did not finish high school or even college for that matter. Correspondence courses from getyourdegreeonline.com does not make you intelligent or your ideas relevant to the discussion on this blog. I think that you are a hurt and confused individual who is trying to make himself look smart by saying absolutely baseless and random statements. I doubt highly you are a Hawk fan or that you even live in this area. You are probably a plant from aTm trying to get time on a local blog.

You Know I've Not Said Anything On This Blog In A Few Days Considering I've Had Better Things To Do But I Wanted To Leave Come Back & Leave One Note For The Aggies...

Yo Aggies Don't Be To Pissed When Our 12th Man Flag Is Flying In Ford Field Tommorrow...It's Going To Be Great To Fly What's Ours

By The Way, Weren't You Guys Going To Put Us In Jail Because Of Us Having 12th Man Flags, T-Shirts And Other Symbols? Hmmmmm

You Know I've Not Said Anything On This Blog In A Few Days Considering I've Had Better Things To Do But I Wanted To Leave Come Back & Leave One Note For The Aggies...

Yo Aggies Don't Be To Pissed When Our 12th Man Flag Is Flying In Ford Field Tommorrow...It's Going To Be Great To Fly What's Ours

By The Way, Weren't You Guys Going To Put Us In Jail Because Of Us Having 12th Man Flags, T-Shirts And Other Symbols? Hmmmmm

I know it is about a year and half after the fact, but if anyone reads this I would just like it to be known that to the ignorent people of Seatle that Texas A&M did not wait until the Seahawks got to the playoffs to file the lawsuit. Texas A&M asked the Bears, Bills, and Seahawks to stop using "The 12th Man". The Seahawks were the only ones who decided to be stubborn and not listen. Yes A&M did not get a U.S. patent for it until 1990, but we started it and in a sort of unwritten "law", own it. I understand it is upsetting and made you angry, but attacks towards people that live in Texas and go to or are alumni of Texas A&M are rediculous. Hmm.... I never hear of good football coming out of Washington. No talent. No class. That is all you liberal, tree hugging, hippies are up there. There must be something in the bong water.

GIG 'EM AGGIES!!!

Texas A&M... THE home of the 12th man. how its been. how it is. how it should be.

WHOOP!!!!

And another thing... i think the steelers won the super bowl. ouch. that must hurt.