A few fellow Breakers fans and I have begun to form a supporters group for the Breakers called the Riptide. We've already begun discussions with the Breakers to secure a supporters section at the stadium where standing, singing, drumming, etc. are encouraged. We see the enthusiastic support that MLS teams and the USMNT get from their organized supporters, and thought that the Breakers and WPS could benefit from something similar. We're working to get a website off the ground now. For now, we are looking to see if this is something anyone is interested in being a part of. We're also wondering if any fans in other WPS cities have been thinking about forming supporters groups of their own. We'd love to see a nationwide network of supporters spring up. Questions, comments, ideas?
Excellent idea. That's a way to build fan enthusiasm, atmosphere and getting everyone involved, women, men, kids, parents. And IMO it lets kids and parents know that their not there just to collect autographs and that its OK to get a little Rowdy and vocal at a soccer game. I hope something gets started for the Chicago team like Section 8 of the Fire.
Yeah... too many soccer fans I know who go to Revs games have mentioned that they never went to Breakers games before because they had the impression that it was an event "for the kids" rather than a top-level soccer game. We're hoping to do what we can to change that... to get everyone involved, from hardcore soccer fans (male and female) to families with children.
OMG, I had totally forgotten all about that!!! That was hilarious! Don't forget the William Tell Overture and let me tell ya... nothing gets the ole' blood flowing and adrenaline pumping like a rousing rendition of Auld Lang Syne! With that being said, I think Support groups are a great idea!
Question is, will the front offices want them? I'd gladly jump and chant for the Freedom again, especially in the new Poplar Point Park ... Adrianfentybuildthethingyoubahstahd.
I plan on starting up one for the Dallas team. I just need more info on the team itself. I envy those of you in Boston and Chicago that are getting real info.
I can't speak for all the front offices... but we've been talking with the Breakers and they have been incredibly supportive of the idea, and seem genuinely excited about it.
Have you thought about starting the ball rolling yourself? Maybe there are some other folks that would be interested in being involved.
It actually has crossed my mind. Those who do want to do something for the Chicago WPS team should talk to more people especially those involved with Section 8 as well as people with Illinois women's soccer. It may not be a carbon copy of Fire supporters but with help and know how of those involved with Chicago Fire supporters something unique can be made for the women's Pro team at Toyota Park and fun atmosphere for a wide demographic.
Exactly! I'd be shocked if the investors didn't want to utilize passionate fans to help promote their investment for free! Or rather in return for certain considerations in the stadium...As maybe a General Admission standing section with drums etc(that we've already accomplished in Boston!) amongst other things! As Meinert6 said, we are hoping to see supporters groups all across WPS. We also like to create a Supporters Shield...That we'll create and pass along to each supporters group at the conclusion of each season as the supporters groups have done for MLS teams since the beginning! But to do this we really need a network of Supporters Groups throughout the league...Let's make this happen!
I feel like I'm speaking for the only person from St. Louis here. We've been so busy with trying to get a MLS team and all the speculation that comes with it that I sometimes forget about our glorious womens team we already have in the bag. When I remember that it's like Christmas came early. Anyway, I'm a member of the Gateway City Supporters Club and I want to get something going for the womens side too. We don't know where they will play at first because the stadium is pending the announcement of the mens side, but it will be worth the drive. Anyone else up for something in St. Louis?