I have seen soccer bring people of different religions and cultures together. I have also seen soccer create long-lasting relationships. For me, it’s done both. The Pride and FC Cincinnati has helped me create the foundation to many friendships that I believe I will have for a very long time. Having moved to Cincinnati in October of 2017, I knew no one. What I did know is that I was super excited to be able to support a soccer team that had so much excitement revolving around it.

As I stated before, I knew no one when I moved here but was excited to find that Cincy was a soccer city. There were bars that favored teams and always aired their games. I could not believe that. Where I lived before, there was no love for soccer at bars. After seeing that Rhinehaus was airing an Arsenal game, I messaged their Facebook account and asked if they knew of a spot I could watch Manchester United games. I was then directed to the one and only Jono Bregger. After watching some games at Molly Malone’s, I was told about The Pride.

What drew me to The Pride was how welcoming Jono was when I was first introduced to him. I was shocked at the hospitality from him, Max, Josh and the others I met over my time watching games at Molly Malone’s. I was then introduced to The Pride and was welcomed with open arms. To me, joining The Pride was a no brainer. I loved watching soccer and I had the opportunity to make new friends with like-minded individuals.

One thing I have noticed in my time in Cincinnati is that people are passionate about soccer and the love for FC Cincinnati is addicting. I never imagined that I would have the opportunity to not only support such an exciting team at a very exciting time but also do so with some of the greatest individuals I have ever had the opportunity to befriend. For me, I joined The Pride to make some friends and watch some soccer but I have a feeling that it will lead to quite a bit more in the future. I look forward to my first FCC season and cheering them on with my brothers and sisters in The Bailey.