Long before American Express came along, Brighton & Hove Albion were Skint.
Rarely has a sponsorship deal been as fitting as when celebrity Seagulls fan Norman Cook, aka Fatboy Slim, sponsored the South-Coast club through his record label, Skint Records.
Over a nine-year period from 1999 to 2008, Italian firm Erreà and Skint were a staple on Seagulls‘ shirts and supported the club when it was down, but not quite out.
Having “Skint” emblazoned across their blue & white striped shirts was perfect for Brighton as they crashed at local athletics ground the Withdean Stadium whilst kicking it in League One waiting for a permanent home to be approved at Falmer.
With a parade of portaloos for supporters needing a wee, facilities at the Withdean were basic to say the least and a world away from the riches afforded to fans visiting the American Express Stadium they now call home.
Brighton’s home shirts were expertly cut by Erreà who bestowed a line of smart designs across their long partnership with the club.
The tongue in cheek marketing exhibited through that sponsorship deal still makes the Brighton home & away shirts of those years popular around the AmEx, and a little bit special for anyone who appreciates a self-deprecating sense of humour.
Times and fortunes have changed, and Brighton & Hove Albion are currently preparing for their second season in the Premier League with Chris Hughton at the helm.
The Seagulls may have glided away from the Withdean, attracted Nike and American Express as partners, but there will always be a close affinity between the club and those who backed them when they were well and truly Skint.
Sartorial Soccer 