Thursday, Toronto FC will play the biggest match in the history of the club. Second to the result, a point of contention here at home may still the ban that was rumored to have nearly been imposed on travelling TFC supporters, a fallout from the happenings of this past Sunday’s match.
I’d suggest that those who read this already know what I am referencing. As such, I chose to resist poking the fire by making assumptions and accusingly posting photos, as opinionated individuals and journalists have opted to do this week.
What’s done is done. A minority has turned to social media to sound off on what they felt was right/wrong. Ultimately, it boils down to evolutions of the same idea I touched on when I first wrote for Red Nation Online: the seemingly irreparable divisions in the Supporters’ Sections at BMO Field.
Consistently awful showings from TFC were partly to blame for the depressingly flat atmosphere inside the ground over the last few years. Now though, nearing the end of one of the best seasons to date, the match day buzz has been ignited once more by stunning goals, and actual wins!
Happy supporters have fun how they see fit. Herein lies what defines the politics between pockets of supporters at BMO Field.
It is not hard to find someone who will condemn “how” you enjoy football. This becomes exaggerated in a situation such as this, as growing pains and infighting have not weakened the opinionated. Rather, it has created callouses and strengthened what is admittedly a minority (SGs) who persist vehemently with their beliefs.
Strong opinions are the backbone to developing/maintaining a supporter group or movement. Putting the keyboard aside at kickoff and backing up these ideals with actions is what inspires it to spread and grow organically.
The advocates will not convince those opposed. Those opposed will not sway the advocates. However, the photos, the articles and the arguments between supporters will populate the Internet. People will take sides.
This is needed. These disagreements are needed. These conversations are needed.
The outcome from the away day in Montreal has provided another significant moment for the story in our stands this season.
In the grand scheme of things, we are experiencing yet another example of authentic development in the history of Toronto FC’s supporter culture.
Leave a comment below or tweet me (@EricAnderton_).
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