After a sub .500 1999 season (that still included a trip to the playoffs), Tampa Bay came into the 2000 season in the reorganized Central Division, joined by the Fire, the Burn and the Crew. Powered by new Senegalese striker Mamadou Diallo’s league leading 26 goals and Carlos Valderrama’s 26 assists, the Mutiny secured second place in the Division and a first round match up with the LA Galaxy. The team did not progress and folded after the following season.

Diallo never hit those heady heights again while Valderrama left the team the next season and finished his American stint with the Colorado Rapids. Defender Joe Addo played several seasons with the Mutiny and also captained Ghana. The club picked up veteran goalkeeper Scott Garlick and Raul Diaz Arce even stopped by for a cup of coffee. Long time US international Steve Trittschuh ended his career at the club, while Steve Ralston began his career at the club in 1996, spent six years in Tampa Bay and left as the all-time leader in games played (177) and points (130).

Even though MLS had some real misfires in terms of names and colors for the original ten teams, I liked both for Tampa Bay. I also thought the club badge was sinister and sharp, although I have no idea what it had to with a mutiny.

The colors were billed as midnight navy, tropical blue and white and came together perfectly for the 2000 home shirt. Echoing the design brought to prominence by Dutch giants Ajax, the jersey featured a solid base marked by a contrasting color down the middle. As a big fan of navy blue kits, this one jumped out me and the light blue contrasted well with the darker blue, with the white trim adding a classy touch.

The Nike swoosh, club badge and team name were centered, which I like. Could have done without the team name across the middle and would have preferred to see the number centered (a la US jersey of the mid 90’s). Paired with navy blue shorts and socks, this strip is a highlight of the early MLS years and if I came across one on the interwebs, might have to snatch it to wear at pick up games.

Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

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