As the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) finals kick off on Saturday in San Jose, excitement fills the air for fans from the Washington Spirit and Gotham FC. They’re not just donning jerseys—they’re bringing the spirit of song and chant that makes game days electric.
For supporters of the Washington Spirit, this season has been a whirlwind. The Spirit Squadron, one of their key fan groups, has crafted a set list of chants to make Saturday unforgettable. Meredith Bartley, the Squadron president, shared that one of their favorites is a lively chant celebrating scores, cleverly set to a classic nursery rhyme. They also have a cheerful tune to express their love for the team, complete with the catchy line, “You’re my favorite soccer team!”
One chant stands out for its political twist. Bartley mentioned the “Free D.C.” chant, which arose from the ongoing discussion about statehood for the district. It became more relevant earlier this year amid tensions when federal control affected local law enforcement.
In a fascinating cultural exchange, Spirit fans often draw inspiration from global soccer scenes. They sometimes join in unison, playfully chanting, “Let’s pretend we scored a goal,” especially when the crowd feels quieter.
Meanwhile, Gotham FC fans have also embraced this musical camaraderie. They’ve reimagined John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads” into “Gotham Roads,” showing their love for both the team and the area. Marge Liguori, who leads the Cloud 9 supporters group, introduced this adaptation. She explained how the song captures a sense of belonging—a feeling vital to their community.
Max Jack, an expert in the intersection of sports and music, highlights the importance of these chants. He explains that singing allows fans to share an emotional journey during games, creating a unique bond. This emotional connection extends to the players as well. For instance, after Gotham FC’s championship game this year, defender Mandy Freeman was moved to tears by the fans’ warm serenades.
Gotham FC’s vice president of communications, Jeff Greer, noted that the fans’ energy fuels the team. The Spirit feels similarly. Their home field, Audi Field, is known for its electrifying vibe, often credited as having the metaphorical status of a “12th player.”
In short, the chants and songs woven into game culture do more than just uplift the crowd; they forge connections between fans, players, and the community. As these two teams come together for the finals, they bring old traditions and new tunes that resonate deeply for all involved.
For more insights into the NWSL and its energetic fan culture, check out NWSL’s official page.
