Supporters Week: Great moments in MLS fan history

Supporters Week: Great Moments: Seattle Sounders fans' tribute to Steve Zakuani, 2011

Over the years, of course, there have been hundreds of incredible moments when MLS supporters have deservedly taken center stage. Coming up with our favorites wasn't easy. But here are a few of them.



Fire up the Gameboy, Mario


To this day, Section 8's "Mario Bros." tifo is one of the most creative and clever fan displays ever. Not only in MLS, but around the world. 





I just want to bang on THE drum all day


D.C. United midfielder Christian Gomez was one of the most beloved players in the club's history, not only for his languid style and attacking mentality, but for his connection with the fans. The Argentine cemented his legacy in 2005, when, while serving a suspension, he joined the supporters and banged a drum to urge on his teammates. (Photo by Matt Mathai)

Supporters Week: Great moments in MLS fan history -



Frankie being Frankie


Like Gomez, Frankie Hejduk was always a fan favorite. In Columbus, not only did he captain the Crew to their only MLS Cup trophy in 2008, but also in that same year, he joined the club's fans for a little tailgating and singing in the parking lot before a match, endearing himself to the Crew supporters forever.   





Forever Orange had to start somewhere


In the first year of the Houston Dynamo's existence, the club reached the MLS Cup final, which was held just up I-45 at Pizza Hut Park (now FC Dallas Stadium) in Frisco, Texas. The Dynamo fans traveled in droves, "painting the stadium orange," as MLS Commissioner Don Garber put it. 





Thank you, Danny Dichio


For his passion and his play, Danny Dichio was an immediate hero to the Toronto FC fans when the club joined MLS in 2007. He scored the first goal in TFC's history (and drew the first red card), and he remains 3rd on their alltime goal-scoring list. When he retired at the end of 2009 season, the supporters thanked him appropriately.





11


After suffering a horrific leg break, Steve Zakuani's jersey number said it all for Seattle Sounders fans and everyone else. 





Rancid drummer believes


A longtime RSL fan, Rancid drummer Branden Steineckert decided to compose -- and record -- a new chant for his club. What emerged was this heart-thumping, drum-pounding piece.  





Cutting it close


The Portland-Seattle rivalry existed long before the Timbers joined MLS. Likewise, the Timbers fans were doing what they do so well before the club got to the top flight. This tifo showing the Timbers Army chopping down the Seattle's famous Space Needle remains legendary -- on both sides of the divide.





A few other supporter moments to check out: