Get your hands on a piece of history!

There are plenty of epic tales that have entered AFC folklore over the last century and more, but one of the more remarkable stories came under another name altogether – the Washington Whips.

In the summer of 1967, Aberdeen played their part, under the guise of the Washington Whips, in the inaugural United Soccer Association tournament. Ten European teams and two from South America were invited to participate in the latest attempt by millionaire American sports promoters to launch a professional soccer league.
Eddie Turnbull's youthful squad featured Bobby Clark in goal, “Iron Man” Ally Shewan in defence and an 18-year-old Martin Buchan who looking to break into the starting line-up. The Whips also boasted President Lyndon B. Johnson as a season ticket holder for their games at the D.C. Stadium.

Aberdeen won the Eastern section and progressed into the final against the Los Angeles Wolves, at the LA Memorial Colosseum, where more than 17,000 fans watched a final that included 11 goals, an early sending-off, two hat-tricks, three penalties, a number of punch-ups and last-gasp equalisers both in normal and extra time. Aberdeen eventually lost 6-5 in sudden death despite playing close to 100 minutes with ten men. RedTV | watch the final click here

A few weeks ago we were delighted to bring members of that famous side back together here at Pittodrie for a reunion at Pittodrie. Why now? Next year sees the 50th anniversary of the Dons' summer trip to the US and the club, in association with the AFC Youth Academy and the AFC Heritage Trust, will be marking that remarkable venture throughout the year.

To kick things off a very unique piece of artwork has been commissioned which features the Washington Whips side of 1967 and Lyndon B. Johnson who served as President of the United States from 1963-69. President Johnson was presented with a season ticket by the team's American owners and took part in a pre-tournament photo-shoot with Aberdeen manager Eddie Turnbull.

The piece of art has been created by Stewart Beckett, one of the foremost designers of sports related graphics in Europe. The work of his Manchester's based design team A'Becket Studio can be seen in virtually every artistic outlet in Europe.

We are excited to announce that a limited edition of 350 prints will be made available with all profits raised from the venture going to the AFC Youth Academy.

Dons supporters and memorabilia collectors will have a chance to get their hands on the prints from Thursday 9th June at 5pm in the AFC Club Shop here at Pittodrie.

There are also 67 prints available which have been signed by 11 of the Washington Whips including Bobby Clark, Martin Buchan, Ally Shewan, Jim Whyte and Jimmy Smith. The best way to secure one is by attending our launch evening where some of the Whips will be present!

Prints will be available for £45 with signed versions available for £100. Each print is uniquely numbered and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Also depicted on the print there is a quote from Sir Alex Ferguson who has added his support to the venture. On behalf of the AFC Heritage Trust there is a quote from Richard Gordon.