Hands On Football

To Be A Fan

How good is it being a fan?

I have been a football fan for as long as I can remember. Mostly of the National team as it was hard for me to get excited about the NSL. I understand how a lot of people did, but living in the Sutherland Shire i just did not get into it.

Although I went to a sprinkling of Socceroo matches over my time I never felt like a FAN until I attended November 16, 2005 at Sydney’s Homebush Bay Olympic Stadium. I came of age so to speak, as a FAN. And I was in my early 40′s by then.

It was cemented in Germany at the World Cup. I met so many like minded Aussies I wondered what rock I had been hiding under for the past 40 years. I have written a number of posts here about those people and my times at various matches since.

I didn’t think I would get that feeling again, that first time feeling. I went to the Roars first home A-League match, but living 110km away and not knowing the history of them I just never got into them. I supported them just so I was supporting the A-League.

Well, last Saturday Night it happened again. My lovely wife and I attended the first ever A-League match for the Gold Coast United A-League team. Not only did I do that but I have been part of the first ever Gold Coast United Supporters Club and am on the committee.

Again, I have met some great people through this, but most importantly we as a group watched history unfold in front of our eyes (mine were a bit bleary). It was just as exciting as watching Australia make the World Cup for the first time in 32 years. They both have their own unique significance in my eyes, and something I will never forget,(thanks to veronica for filling in the gaps).

History shows that GCU won the game 3-1. But just as important the team showed they mean business. And just as important again, we the fans showed each other how much it meant to us. We sung loud and proud from the moment we walked down Caxton Street until after the final whistle. Michael Thwaite our central defender, had this to say today.

“It was brilliant to hear them out-chanting the Roar fans even though they were outnumbered and that’s a great sign for the potential atmosphere at Skilled Park. They really made themselves heard which is what you want from your fans.”

Strong Fans mean a Strong Club and Strong Clubs mean a Strong A-League. Get out there people and support your club wherever that may be.

UNITED WE STAND