From Lance’s Press Box
“Supporting the Supporters”
When asked to write a blog for the new Scouse’s House website, I was absolutely flattered. Scouse has been a great friend to me the last couple of years, and my admiration and adoration for him and his 200+ closest friends at LouCity games grows with each home match.
Then I remembered I’m not a very gifted writer, and I’m much better at verbally expressing my thoughts. In addition, Saturday’s win against Tampa Bay has been analyzed from every direction for what took place on the pitch and, of course, in the stands #maskgate. So what do I do now?
Well, Scouse said to write about something I’m passionate about. Of course, we all share passion for our local soccer club, Louisville City FC. What’s not to love? A new professional team with a shoestring budget makes do with a less-than-desirable ballpark as its home, lands a tremendous person as its coach, signs incredibly fine, talented players, and delivers unsurpassed success to its dedicated supporters almost instantly. The club not only embraces the culture its supporters have cultivated, but defends that culture vehemently – even confronting local law enforcement to protect what have become beloved traditions!
So the passion for the club is a given. But, I have to confess something. From that very first game against St. Louis in 2015, when admittedly, I was just there to hear my own voice in Slugger Field, I was captivated by the energy and unquestioning love the supporters shared with the team and the rest of the casual fans. Something special was happening. I focused that entire match, and much of that season learning a little bit of soccer, but a whole lot about those filling the supporters section. I learned of the Coopers, the Heretics, the Derby City Ultras, the Cornbread Ultras, and the entire Purple Family. And of course, I began to meet individuals – way too many to name – each one as kind and enjoyable as the next. The supporters embraced me, and I’ve been truly inspired and energized by them far more than I can articulate.
Then, I met Scouse Bromilow. Scouse is one of the most genuine, compassionate gentlemen I’ve ever met. The type of man that would give you the shirt off his back. However, he is drop dead serious about his football. As many of you know, a hotly contested Liverpool match can transform him instantly into a raging bull shouting with great color at the TV. Trust me, it’s a sight to behold!
One day, Scouse shared his vison for a new supporters group called Scouse’s House. They, of course, would occupy the “outfield” section of the stadium, support LouCity and jeer the opposing goalkeeper. At the time, he had about 20 members, which I thought was impressive. However, the membership of Scouse’s House has ballooned to over 150 and is still growing! His passion is contagious, just like his counterparts on the other end of the pitch.
From my perch in the press box, I can’t tell you how impressive it is to see both ends of the pitch filled with amazing supporters. What all supporters bring to match day, the electric atmosphere, the love, the passion, are what fuel the team as they battle on the pitch. Frankly, it’s why I’ve fallen in love with announcing the matches and why I do the Soccer City Radio show. You, the supporters, the fans, are my true passion. You make it fun.
Every supporter can reflect with pride on what you’ve done by sharing your passion together. As the years roll by and Louisville City moves into its new home in Butchertown (OMG, it’s exhilarating just to type that), wins more championships, and the fan base grows, there surely will be new SGs – large and small. It’s my hope that all SGs will continue to support one another, as well as the team. Because, as long as you keep bringing it, I swear I’ll be right there with you – giving everything I’ve got to boost LouCity on to victory!
Lance McGarvey
P.S. – I really do almost pass out from yelling “Loooouuu Ciiittyyyyy Goooooaaaallllll” too long sometimes. I bet it happens someday, LOL.
-Lance
Derek Dennison says
Wonderful Lance
Jim Tackett says
There’s something to be said about starting a tradition. Doesn’t matter if you’re wearing a mask or writing a blog post, you’re doing your part, laying that brick building that foundation.
That’s what guys like Scouse and others like him have done. They have helped lay the foundation. It’s up to a 55 year old plant manager like me, who finds himself wearing a cape to games, with his kids and grandkids, to help build up that foundation by spreading the love of Our City.
Every match, every year, we grow.