NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Sports fans in Nashville had their focus dialed in on the Titans during the end of their regular season and throughout the playoffs. But now that the Titans are done until next year, many sports fans will be changing their focus from football to fútbol, or soccer.
“It’s 40 days away. We’re all freaking out ready to go. It’s soccer time!" proclaimed Stephen Robinson, vice president of The Roadies, one of the supporter groups for Nashville SC.
Nashville SC played in the United Soccer League (USL) up until 2020, when they are scheduled to make their Major League Soccer (MLS) debut.
While soccer fans are excited about the start of Nashville's inaugural MLS season, they're also hoping other Nashville sports fans will give soccer a try once they've recovered from the Titans' playoff run.
“Take your time, kind of reminisce about the season," Robinson said. "They did a fantastic job this year; so kind of enjoy, look back at the season, and then, get your voices ready again, because we’re going to be loud in this stadium and we’re going to need anybody that we can get.”
Nashville SC is slated to play their first two MLS seasons at Nissan Stadium, and supporters are working together to try to create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else.
“I love what Cell Block 303 does. I love what the people of the Titans and all they do, but you’re going to see some of the most passionate people in The Roadies, in the Backline Collective, and the supporters groups just because of what it means to them to be able to sing the songs during the matches, said Robinson. "You’re going to get a lot of loudness. You’re going to get a lot of fun. You’re going to have a great experience. We always say, you’re going to come, and you’re not going to want to leave."
Robinson added that watching a Nashville SC game gives people a unique experience and allows them to become part of a sports family, all while watching great soccer.
“Now we get to see first-tier fútbol - players from Germany, all around the world, South America, representing Nashville and they’re representing us. It started because a group of fans just wanted soccer in this city, and people noticed that, people recognized that, and that’s why we’re here today, explained Robinson.
Nashville SC will start their first MLS stadium at Nissan Stadium on February 29 against Atlanta United FC. Tickets will go on sale to the general public on Wednesday.
