Seattle Seahawks

In the early 1970s, a group of Seattle business leaders known as Seattle Professional Football Inc., initiated a campaign to bring an NFL franchise to the city. This effort, spearheaded by Herman Sarkowsky and the Nordstrom family, culminated on June 4, 1974, when the NFL awarded Seattle its 28th franchise. Following a public contest, the name "Seahawks" was chosen, and the team began its inaugural season in 1976. The franchise operated under the Nordstrom-Sarkowsky ownership until 1988 when it was sold to Ken Behring and Ken Hofmann for a reported $80 million. This era was marked by struggles and a controversial, albeit temporary, attempt to move the team to California in 1996. A pivotal moment in the team's history occurred in 1997. Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen purchased the team for $200 million, securing its future in Seattle. This acquisition was contingent on public funding for a new stadium, which led to the construction of what is now Lumen Field. Allen's ownership ushered in a period of stability and on-field success, leading to three Super Bowl appearances and the franchise's first championship win in 2014. Following Allen's passing in 2018, his sister, Jody Allen, assumed leadership, continuing the family's legacy with the team.