Supporter culture in men’s professional soccer has existed for decades all over the world. In the women’s game, that culture is still taking hold as professional women’s leagues continue to grow around the globe. The NWSL is in its eighth year – longer than any of its predecessors in America – and supporter culture throughout the league is on the rise.
For Belton native Sarah Gilleland, it was this passion and energy of the supporters sections that led her to seek out those groups at any soccer match she attended, even when she moved across the country. When she returned back home to Texas, she helped create the Houston Dash supporter group, Bayou City Republic.