I initially remember it as a term of condescension. As the league got stronger and more respected, the phrase also began to be used in respectful context.

AKA it evolved from "we're laughing at you" to "we're laughing with you."

(09-07-2022 01:06 PM)GoBigRed26 Wrote:  

(09-04-2022 10:15 PM)Michael in Raleigh Wrote:  Dr. Google found this for me...

2015: http://www.thenewsstar.com/story/sports/.../27091681/

2016:
https://collegefootball.nbcsports.com/20...ppi-state/

Underdog Dynasty's been using the term since at least 2013.

stAte, ULM, Louisiana, and Troy fans: How long has "Fun Belt" been a thing?

It goes back several millennia and has been passed down through generations by fables and folklore, but has only recently become mainstream. I think there was a reference of it in the Epic of Gilgamesh.

Those Smurfs stole it from us.

A lot of us old guys from around Monroe always referred to Monroe as Funroe back in the 70's and 80's and I know a few of us used Fun Belt from around '07 just in our circles. 2012 seems to be the first I remember hearing a broadcaster use it.