If you’ve ever watched a Chicago Bears game, you may have noticed the three letters “GSH” printed on the sleeves of their jerseys. Many fans wonder: What does GSH stand for, and why is it on the Bears’ uniforms? Here’s the story behind this lasting tribute.
What Does GSH Stand For?
The letters GSH stand for George Stanley Halas — the founder, long-time coach, and owner of the Chicago Bears. Known as “Papa Bear”, Halas was also one of the original co-founders of the National Football League (NFL) in 1920. His vision and leadership shaped the Bears into one of the most iconic franchises in professional football.
Why the Bears Wear GSH on Their Uniforms
When George Halas passed away in 1983, the Chicago Bears organization wanted to honor his memory permanently. That same year, they added “GSH” to the left sleeve of their jerseys.
- G = George
- S = Stanley (his middle name)
- H = Halas
Unlike many temporary memorial patches worn by sports teams, the Bears kept the tribute on their uniforms permanently — making it one of the longest-running memorials in American sports.
George Halas’ Legacy
George Halas’ influence on football is immense:
- Founder of the Chicago Bears – Established in 1920, originally as the Decatur Staleys.
- NFL Pioneer – Helped create and grow the league into a national powerhouse.
- Winning Coach – Coached the Bears for 40 seasons, earning 324 career victories.
- Innovator – Introduced modern strategies that helped shape today’s game.
The initials “GSH” serve as a constant reminder to players, coaches, and fans of the man who built the franchise.
A Symbol of Tradition
Today, the GSH patch is as much a part of the Bears’ identity as their navy and orange colors. It connects generations of fans and players to the team’s proud history and ensures George Halas’ contributions are never forgotten.
Conclusion
So, why do the Chicago Bears have GSH on their jerseys? It’s a permanent tribute to George Stanley Halas, the legendary founder and coach who shaped both the Bears and the NFL itself. Every time a Bears player takes the field, those three letters represent a legacy of tradition, toughness, and respect for one of football’s greatest pioneers.
