Major League Soccer has experienced significant growth since it was established in 1996. Growing up in the Midwest, I remember attending Chicago Fire games when they joined the league in 1998. Maybe because it was a long time ago, or perhaps I didn’t get to my seat in time, but I don’t recall anything particularly “special” happening before kickoff. Times have certainly changed.
Teams now make a concerted effort to create experiences that excite fans right before the match begins. From falcons soaring around the field to dramatic pyrotechnics, some pre-game activities are certainly more impressive than others. This list won’t include Marches to the Match or tailgate parties, as those topics will be covered in a future blog. Instead, this will focus on truly unique experiences from various stadiums. Please let me know if there’s anything I’ve overlooked that should be included. Additionally, these experiences are not listed in any particular order. Enjoy!
Los Angeles FC
The Honorary Falconer is one of LAFC pre-game traditions. At every home game, an honorary falconer releases a live falcon that flies around the stadium and then returns to the falconer. The falcon is supposed to symbolize the club and its style of play - fast, aggressive and relentless.
Chicago Fire
Before the players come out at a Chicago Fire FC match, fans participate in a special ritual called "Sound the Alarm." Twenty minutes before the game starts, a person from the Chicagoland area is presented with a supporters' axe to shatter a glass panel, which activates a fire alarm. This event triggers a sequence to welcome the Fire players to the field: the alarm sounds throughout the entire stadium, large flames shoot up behind the goals, and a hype video plays before the players make their entrance
Atlanta United FC
Every home game Atlanta United players and supporters sign a big golden spike. Then before the game, a chosen Atlanta celebrity hammers in the golden spike as a nod to the city's history of the railroad.
Additionally, after the final whistle, the player of the game is presented with a smaller golden spike as a memento.
Nashville SC
The Gibson Guitar Riff is a special ritual that will showcase different artists throughout the season as they increase the energy by riffing live on an NSC customized Gibson guitar right before kickoff.
Given Nashville's deep musical roots, particularly in country music, it's plausible that a guitar riff plays either to rally fans at key moments or as a celebration after goals. This would be a fitting tribute to the city's musical heritage and a unique way to pump up the crowd.
FC Cincinnatti
The "Sword Ritual" at FC Cincinnati matches is a pre-game ceremony where an honorary guest has the privilege of pulling a ceremonial sword from its sheath. This act is meant to fire up the crowd and signify the start of the match. The ritual has featured various notable figures, including local celebrities and sports stars, who perform this symbolic gesture at TQL Stadium.
New England Revolution
Playing off the Tea Party theme at New England Revolution matches, someone throws a “tea crate” from the supporters section which is followed by other fans throwing softer crates. I see the historical significance, but I think the execution could be a little more theatrical.
Columbus Crew
Before a Columbus Crew match, notable leaders and celebrities in Columbus push down the dynamite plunger to ignite pyrotechnics around the stadium.
