Know Your Rangers, Part I

"Know Your Rangers"

Part I of a Neverending Series

"I've heard that there is a Ranger 'gangster' symbol.

What is it, when do I flash it, and will I be shot

by rival street gangs if I do so?"

Submitted by: Someone Who is Not Sean in Beaverton, Oregon

Excellent question, Someone Who is Not Sean...if that is indeed your real name. The Ranger "gangsta" (not "gangster") sign is the goal celebration of choice for FC77 Rangers players. A unique but not over-the-top display of goal-scoring prowess, it was first flashed in the fall of 2011 when Manager Sean scored a wicked awesome goal against Controlled Chaos that beat the keeper from 16 yards out and banked off the inside far post into the net. Rather than freak out and uncontrollably scream excited profanities ala Tourette's Syndrome as had been his custom, Sean turned and displayed this symbolic hand gesture:

Exhibit A: Symbolic Hand Gesture

Some might say that this is nothing more than Nicolas Anelka's "flying bird" goal celebration, but those people would be incorrect. Please note the startling similarities between this hand gesture and the Rangers crest:

Exhibit B: Rangers crest

The thumbs are upraised, alluding to a "thumbs up" gesture of success and positivity, but they also look like the crossed sabers above. The outstretched fingers take on the form of outstretched wings, which can refer to soaring/taking flight/victory or perhaps obtusely refer to the mythological phoenix rising from the ashes of defeat. It should be also noted that the hand gesture does not literally mimic the star in the middle of the crest, because it is implied that after you score, YOU are the star of the moment. Just don't forget some love for the guy who fed you the awesome assist.

It is unlikely you will be shot by anybody for displaying this during a soccer match. Unlikely, but not impossible. It is hoped that there will be many, MANY occasions to flash the Ranger "gangsta" symbol during the winter 2011 campaign.

Until next time...KNOW YOUR RANGERS!