If you ask most Americans, they can tell you that Tom Brady is the quarterback for the New England Patriots. But have you ever heard anyone call him, “Tom Terrific”? Probably not, but on May 24, his trademark law firm filed two trademark applications for the use of the phrase. The biggest problem – this nickname is already taken.
With a simple online search, anyone can find that Tom Terrific is the nickname for Major League Baseball pitcher and baseball Hall of Famer Tom Seaver. Seaver made it big in the MLB when he reached his peak in 1969 and was considered the best pitcher on the planet. And if you talk to a Mets fan, you’ll get an even more passionate answer. In fact, in March of this year, the Mets announced that they were going to put a statue of Seaver at Citi Field, as well as rename the street in front of the stadium after Seaver.
So, will the two applications Brady’s trademark attorney filed be successful? Only time will tell, but it seems unlikely. Just by filing, Brady’s stoked the flames of Mets fans. There have been protests in Manhattan, and this issue is even bringing congressmen from both sides of the aisle together. Republican Rep., Peter King and Democrat Rep., Anthony Brindisi might not agree on much, but they both know there’s only one Tom Terrific.
If you have a nickname that you want to secure, the best thing you can do is follow Brady’s example and have your trademark lawyer file a trademark application for you. If your attorney is experienced with trademark law, like the pros here at The Social Media Law Firm, they’ll be able to check if your name is already in use, and can advise you on what to do next.
Want more info about trademarking a nickname? Contact us today, and we’ll take you through the process.
