What Is a Supporters Group, Actually? The 14ers Explain

Denver Summit FC's biggest supporters explain what a supporters group actually is — and why you should be one.Kate sits down with Megan and Emily, president and community liaison of the 14ers, Denver Summit FC's official supporters group, to break down what separates showing up to a match from actually being part of one.They get into the origin story — starting before the team even existed, back when it was just a bid — and how the group grew from a handful of volunteers into tailgates that have drawn thousands of fans across just three home games.Megan and Emily walk through what a TIFO is and how one comes together by hand, the role a supporters section and the Spirit crew play in the in-game atmosphere, and the surprising amount of mentorship Rapids supporters group Centennial 38 has provided along the way.They also dig into the social-justice roots of supporters culture more broadly, why supporters groups exist in soccer in a way they don't in other American sports, and what's ahead for the 14ers this summer, including Fourteeners Fest.If you've ever wondered who's leading the chants or painting the giant banners at a Summit game — or you've never been to a soccer match in your life — this is the episode that explains it all.Find the 14ers at 14ersupporters.com or on Instagram, and catch all the latest Denver Summit FC coverage at 5280pitch.com — sign up for The 5280 Weekly newsletter to get it straight to your inbox. You can also find us on Instagram and Threads @5280pitch.