We are doing it! We are going to start one big group for all 1. FC Köln supporters living in the US.
Why do this when there are local and regional groups already? Well, some cities like Chicago, Cincinnati and Omaha have enough fans to register as a fan group. But we want to include all of you! So, once we have gone through a big first round of sign ups, Robert is going to register 1. FC Köln Supporters USA as an official fan club.
This will definitely help us to push the club to continue building on their internationalization efforts. When we have actual membership numbers, this is something concrete that we can show them and ask for more (inter-)action from the club for us overseas. It is also a helpful tool to communicate with the Bundesliga folks in the US. In short, it is about visibility - towards the club, league, and - most importantly - soccer fans.
At them moment the plan is as follows:- to allow 100% accessibility, the membership should be free (and remain so)
- members will have access to newsletters, remote & in-person events, merch and more
- members will have exclusive access to ordering membership packages (on pre-order basis)
- members can join us for our annual meet ups and other shenanigans
- once we have signed up the first wave of members, we will approach the club to get our fan club officially confirmed and listed
- more to come