The Bears have had the patch on their jerseys since the 1980s.
What does GSH mean on Bears uniforms? History, meaning behind NFL tribute patch worn on Chicago jersey sleeves originally appeared on The Sporting News
JUMP TO:
- What does GSH stand for on Bears jerseys?
- When did Bears add the GSH patch?
- Why did the Bears honor George Halas?
- Did George Halas own the Bears?
- George Halas coaching record
- Is the GSH patch permanent?
The Chicago Bears are one of the NFL’s most storied franchises, with roots tracing back to the 1920s. Along with their rich history come traditions, and few are as recognizable as the navy blue and orange uniforms.
One detail that stands out is the “GSH” embroidered on the left sleeve of every Bears jersey. Those initials have been there for decades, honoring the legacy of former team owner and NFL pioneer George Halas.
Here’s a closer look at the history of the Bears’ GSH jersey patch.
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What does GSH stand for on Bears jerseys?
"GSH" is to pay homage to former Bears owner George Halas, whose middle name was Stanley. GSH is Halas' initials. Halas also served as a player and coach for the team.
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When did Bears add the GSH patch?
The Bears added the patch in 1984, one year after Halas' death in 1983. Halas was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 1983 and passed away shortly thereafter. He was 88 years old.
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Why did the Bears honor George Halas?
Former Bears owner George Halas is a legendary figure in franchise history. A multi-sport athlete in Chicago, he played both baseball and football, suiting up professionally for the Hammond All-Stars in 1919 before joining the Chicago Staleys — the team that would become the Bears in 1922. Halas played while also serving as head coach from 1920-30.
He won an NFL championship in 1921 (before the Super Bowl era), earned second-team All-Pro honors in 1920, and had his No. 7 jersey retired at Soldier Field. After his playing days, Halas remained deeply tied to the franchise, serving as owner and coach from 1933-41. He left to serve in the U.S. Navy during World War II from 1942-46, then returned to the sidelines that same year.
Chicago’s navy-and-orange color scheme also pays tribute to Halas’ alma mater, the University of Illinois.
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Did George Halas own the Bears?
Yes, Halas owned the team from 1932-1983, but was a co-owner along with Edward Sternaman from 1921-32.
George Halas coaching record
Halas finished with a 318-31-148 overall record as a head coach from 1920-1942 and 1946-1967. His 318 regular-season wins are the second-most in NFL history, behind Don Shula (328) and ahead of Bill Belichick (302).
He led his team to NFL Championships in 1932, 1933, 1941, 1943, 1946 and 1963.
Is the GSH patch permanent?
Yes, the patch is on every home and away Bears jersey. In 2012, the initial were enlarged on the left sleeve.
Category: Football
