Whether you are waving a flag, holding your scarves up proudly, walking the players out, or chanting your support and words of encouragement, the players and coaches of Tacoma Defiance notice you.
They notice your passion and your love of all things Tacoma.
The team responds to your presence. Tacoma Defiance Coach Chris Little sees the impact on the way his squad plays at Cheney Stadium.
“When we play here we get a spring in our step. You can approach the game a little bit differently than when we play away. The players feed off the crowd, being at home with the atmosphere. It helps us with the tempo of the game and taking the game to the opposition.”
The energy in a home stadium is a feedback loop. It starts with the fans, grows via the players, and then you – the fans – get even more involved. Fans make players’ matchday experience easier. Frequent captain and goal-scoring winger Shandon Hopeau enjoys it.
“It’s better to play in front of our fans. I feel we bring out better energy at home.”
Playing at home gives the young players confidence. Forward Alec Diaz gets a morale boost knowing that the Men in Black have Tacoma behind them.
“At home with the fans and the atmosphere we can get some good results.”
It’s you – Tacoma – your spirit, your support, your Defiance.
March 16, 2023