Historical Crests Heracles Almelo

Name: ​ ​ Heracles Almelo

Nickname(s): ​ Heraclieden

Founded: ​ 1903

Stadium: ​ ​ Erve Asito (Almelo)

Capacity: ​ 12,080

Heracles Almelo Crest History

Throughout much of the twentieth century, Heracles used badges featuring the club name alongside black-and-white striped elements inspired by the famous home shirt. These crests emphasised tradition and recognisability while remaining relatively conservative in design.

A significant change occurred in 1974, when the professional club separated from the amateur section and adopted the name SC Heracles '74. New badge designs reflected this organisational change, often incorporating the updated name while retaining the traditional black-and-white colour scheme. The crests from this period became associated with the club's efforts to establish itself in professional football.

Another important transformation arrived in 1998, when the club adopted the name Heracles Almelo. The addition of the city name strengthened the connection between the club and Almelo, and a redesigned crest followed. The badge retained the familiar black-and-white striped shield but introduced a cleaner, more modern appearance that better reflected the club's ambitions entering the new century.

The most dramatic redesign arrived in 2015. For the first time, the club placed a prominent image of Heracles, the mythical Greek hero, at the centre of its crest. The figure was depicted standing powerfully against the traditional black-and-white striped background, creating a direct visual link between the club's name and its identity.

Heracles Almelo Club History

Founded on 3 May 1903, Heracles Almelo is one of the oldest professional football clubs in the Netherlands. Established in the city of Almelo in the province of Overijssel, the club was named after Heracles, the legendary hero of Greek mythology, symbolising strength, courage and perseverance. 

During its early decades, Heracles emerged as one of the strongest clubs in Dutch football. The club enjoyed its greatest successes during the amateur era, winning the Dutch national championship in 1927 and 1941. These titles established Heracles as one of the leading teams in the country and remain among the most important achievements in the club's history.

In 1910, Heracles adopted the famous black-and-white striped shirts that continue to define the club today. The colours became one of the most recognisable identities in Dutch football and have remained unchanged for more than a century.

Following the introduction of professional football in 1954, Heracles faced increasing competition from larger and wealthier clubs. While the club remained an important part of Dutch football, it became more difficult to replicate the successes achieved during the amateur era.

A major organisational change occurred in 1974, when the professional and amateur sections separated. The professional club became known as SC Heracles '74, while the amateur section continued independently. This restructuring helped secure the future of professional football in Almelo during a challenging period.

Another important milestone arrived in 1998, when the club adopted the name Heracles Almelo. The addition of the city name strengthened the connection between the club and its local community while marking the beginning of a new era.

The most successful modern period began in the early 2000s. Under coach Peter Bosz, Heracles won the 2004–05 Eerste Divisie title and secured promotion to the Eredivisie. The championship marked the club's return to the top flight and laid the foundation for a prolonged period of stability.

One of the club's greatest achievements in the professional era came in 2012, when Heracles reached the KNVB Cup Final for the first time in its history. Although defeated by PSV Eindhoven, the cup run remains one of the most memorable campaigns in the club's history.

Heracles plays its home matches at the Erve Asito Stadion (formerly Polman Stadion), which has been the club's home since 1999. 

The club's fiercest rivalry is with FC Twente in the Twentse Derby, one of the most significant regional rivalries in Dutch football. Matches between the two clubs generate intense local interest and reflect the footballing pride of the Twente region.

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