Saturday I watched the Crew dismantle Kansas City with class, 2-0. IT WAS EASY. Maybe next year, the Wizards can cast a spell that makes them good.

Ahem.

A more interesting aspect of this game was the behavior of the Crew Massive, Hudson Street Hooligans, Nordecke, Local 614—whatever they want to be called. The crazy fans in the corner. They’re the ones I’m so glad to have at every game, and so glad to have on the other side of the stadium at every game. The whole north corner was packed for this playoff match, and these dudes were louder and rowdier than ever.

In the past, Crew fans have been accused of racism, instigating fights with opposing fans, attempts to harm opposing players (throwing batteries?!), and attempts to put a lot of decoration on opposing players. While I can only claim witness to one of these (the decoration), I can say that we’ve definitely gained a reputation for taking both the “kid” and the “friendly” out of “kid-friendly event”. So what we have is an “event”… for adults who aren’t easily offended.

In fact, the most impressing behavior the crazy fans exhibit every game is their expertly synchronized foul language. It’s usually louder than the announcer, and with a packed house, it’s clear as a bell. I’ll admit, I’m a fan of the brazen attitude, but as I told a friend Saturday, a lot of kids are growing up tonight.

Some catchy chants I heard