This blogger is very interested in the relationship between trademarks and football and is happy to see Greek football clubs being increasingly aware of the commercial potential of such "badges of origin" (and allegiance of course). Recently, it seems that Greek football is keen on adopting any and every trend out there, with doubtful, however, results.

In this context, designmag reports that the Greek Super League (i.e. the "poor" equivalent of e.g. Primera Division) team Asteras Tripolis has announced a crowdsourcing competition for the new logo of its apparel merchandise, which should include the letters A T F C (originating from Asteras Tripolis Football Club). No other real specs appear to have been required.

In a more careful manner, one of Greece's most historic and successful teams, AEK, has launched a similar crowdsourcing contest for a mark to celebrate its 90th anniversary. The team requires the proposed mark to comply with its existing brand identiy (a vague but really necessary requirement) and not to infringe on third parties IP rights (goes without saying - but it is good to tell to some people).  Vey importantly also, AEK clearly states that acceptance of any ofthe proposals submitted reamins at its sole discretion (a lesson some other crowdsourcing fans might have learned the hard way).

Although such initiatives are a good way of involving the fans and the community in the club's function, experience tells us that careful design ofthe contest and its terms & conditions is the only way to secure avoidance of a marketing blunder. Both contests are still open and we will just have to see if they will prove a good example of what crowdsourcing can offer in the world of Greek football brands.