The talk has been going on for ages. The numbers are there to make it happen. I’ve seen them with my own eyes, multiple times. But for one reason or another, it’s just never gotten up off the ground.

However, that may be about to change…

That’s right kids, Dayton may finally get their own chapter of the American Outlaws… but we need your help.

The Outlaws, if you’re not familiar with them, are easily the largest and most vocal of the “unofficial” supporters groups of the US National Teams. There are vibrant chapters of AO in neighboring cities such as Cincinnati, Columbus, Indianapolis and Louisville — hell, even Akron has one. But for reasons unknown, Dayton’s never managed to gather sufficient numbers to maintain a chapter of their own. Which has always seemed odd to me, given the regular, large showings of support for US Men’s and Women’s matches over the last two to three years at bars such as Chappy’s Taphouse in West Carrolton and The Pub in Beavercreek.

But thanks to the hard work of some impassioned fans, the Gem City’s luck might be about to change. Beginning with tonight’s tune-up against Guatemala and running through at least the end of the Gold Cup group matches, a still unofficial gathering of American Outlaws will take place at Centerville’s brand new Lock 27 Brewing.

The aim? To attempt to coax all of Dayton’s US National Team fans into accumulating at a single location, for a single, unified showing of support. So why not throw on your kit and grab your favorite scarf and join your fellow fans? With good beer, good company and football on the television, you could really do worse. And if you enjoy the experience and want to make it a regular thing (not to mention take advantage of all of the sweet perks), pony up $24 to become an official member of AO Dayton. If the group can nail down 25 memberships, AO will give them their blessing to become an official chapter.

If you’re sold on the idea already, you could even join American Outlaws right now — just be sure to write in “Dayton” as your chapter. Also, be sure to check out the newly minted AO Dayton Facebook page and give it a like, as well.

So come out and join us. Be a part of something bigger. And let’s cheer on our boys like right and proper supporters. And if that’s still not enough to convince you, let’s do this Free Beer Movement–style: if you’re the first one to find me at tonight’s match… your first drink is on me.