I recently picked up the new book "Superfans", by George Dohrmann, at the suggestion of a member of the TA family. While I'm still reading the book, I couldn't help but jump ahead and read the chapters about Nevets and Timber Jim.
The Nevets story is fascinating, and as Finn said on the Twitters, should be required reading for any Timbers Army member since it lays out what is basically the birth of the Timbers Army. I've gathered a fair amount of the backstory organically over the years, and I still learned about 20 new things from this chapter. The Timber Jim story is incredible as well. I've heard the story many times, and it still brings tears to my eyes every time. Love you Jim.
At the recent 107ist Board "retreat" (a nice term for an all-day meeting) a few weeks ago, a lot of talk revolved around culture - The 107IST's role in sustaining/supporting supporter culture, Timbers Army and Riveters culture, etc.
With the stadium expansion and 2nd NWSL Championship, we're likely to see another major influx of new fans into the North End just like we saw with the move to MLS, the MLS Cup win, and the 1st NWSL Championship.
- As supporters - What do we want our culture to be?
- Who's going to help bring that culture to fruition?
- What is the role of the 107ist in sustaining and supporting supporter culture?
There's an old saying "You don't know where you're going until you know where you've been". Know your history.
*As soon as I'm done with it, my copy of "Superfans" will be at the Booked library at the Fanladen if you want to borrow it. See you on the terraces.
Updated: Link to the book if you'd like to buy yourself a copy. http://a.co/933OSwT