Ever since Greenville FC was announced, fans have been chomping at the bit for the season to begin. And as no club is complete without a solid supporters group backing them, the Mill Town Operatives will be supporting Greenville FC in their inaugural season.

The group was established by Blake Holloman, Katie Jo Howell, and (our very own) Chris Ashley. I (Ben) was fortunate enough to attend their first official meet-up at 13 Stripes Brewery in Taylors, S.C. The meet-up did not disappoint, and I left encouraged and even more excited for their inaugural season to arrive.

I attended the meeting wearing my Arsenal kit and instantly felt welcomed seeing numerous patrons of the bar wearing various soccer kits, hats, and scarves. After ordering a beer, I quickly began chatting with a few soccer fans about their excitement around the newest team to join NPSL’s Southeast Conference.

The sense of excitement and camaraderie was easily felt throughout the night. After having a few conversations with fans about the team, I made my way over to Chris Ashley’s makeshift podcast studio on the deck. He was bold enough to take on the task of doing a live podcast recording in the brewery to hear from fans about various topics surrounding the team. Shortly after, those that were there made there way to a couch section that was reserved for fans.

Blake Holloman and Katie Jo Howell got everyone's attention as the meeting began. They introduced themselves and then asked the group of nearly 20 to do the same. What struck me immediately was that we all had various experiences with the game of soccer. Blake Holloman was a newer fan of the game but was a part of Asheville City’s South Slope Blues last year. He hopes to help replicate that experience in Greenville. Another guy was in Orlando to witness Orlando City’s rise from USL to MLS. There were a few Atlanta United fans that were excited to have a local team to support in their backyard.

(Photo Credit: Blake Schultz)

What I found most encouraging was that we all came together out of a love for the city of Greenville and a love for the beautiful game. Those two factors will make this supporters group successful in cheering on the green and gold in 2018 and building the game in the area.

Do you want to be a part of the Mill Town Operatives? The close knit group is still in the early part of planning and organizing for the upcoming season. The group can be found on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Keep up with them on their various social media pages for updates on future meet-ups and happenings in anticipation of the season to begin.

I personally can’t wait to see how they grow in 2018.