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Gregory Payan/Associated Press

Contrary to popular belief, success in sports isn't solely about winning championships. Sure, that's the ultimate goal. The end game. But reaching the postseason and competing on a yearly basis also qualifies as part of the definition.

Sports is an industry full of ups and downs. Look out across the landscape of franchises and you'll see a revolving door of success. However, only a select group can lay claim to having a consistent winning approach.

The list below hones in on 12 of those active franchises in American professional sports that have been able to sustain a level of winning from the past all the way up to present day.