Hello Dynamo Fans,
Thank you for coming out to support us in our match against Chicago. While we did not find the back of the net during the Fire match I think that we looked much sharper and more aggressive than the previous week against New York. Clearly, as everyone can see, we need help up front in the attack. As reliable as Brian Ching is, we cannot afford to always look to Brian to be the guy to knock one in. If you recall last year we had Brian and Dwayne scoring at a regular clip but other players stepped up to supplement the two-headed scoring machine, such as Craig Waibel (five goals) and Alejandro Moreno (three goals).
Let me take a moment to touch on one of the challenges that Dynamo faces as we establish the team as one of Houston's four major franchises. As all Dynamo fans know, there is amazing energy and passion at Dynamo matches. A number of longtime soccer observers have mentioned to me that they believe the atmosphere at Robertson Stadium is as vibrant and lively as at many European or Latin American venues. During our playoff run last year, a number of players commented to me on the emotional support that they received from Dynamo supporters. I firmly believe that the unprecedented support for our men in Orange played a significant role in the team's success.
The atmosphere is enhanced by the Dynamo band and dancers as well as by our south end zone bongo drummers. However, the presence of the two supporters clubs in the north end zone, Texian Army and El Batallon, really provides the electricity that makes soccer such a magical game. Our staff works closely with both supporters groups as well as with the security company, 5 Star, and the local policing authorities. We strive to provide a safe and organized stadium with the best atmosphere possible.
Occasionally, as we witnessed this past Sunday, things do not run as smoothly as we would like in the north end zone, where there is a frenzied atmosphere at times. At about the 65-minute mark you may have noticed that a section of supporters left the north end zone and walked out of the stadium, after a disagreement with some of the security staff. Our staff has addressed this and we are working to repair any ill will.
We place a lot of emphasis on creating a safe and fun ambience at Robertson Stadium where fans of all ages and ethnicities can enjoy great soccer action and unparalleled passion. With the Dynamo (and professional soccer) being relatively new to town, we still have plenty of work to do to educate folks on how soccer is celebrated around the world. With the support of El Batallon and Texian Army I have no doubt that we will be able to show the established sporting community how safe and fun Dynamo matches are. We tend to fear things that we don't know so it is up to us to continue to educate and teach what the "soccer culture" is all about.
