Photo illustration by Anthony Mendolia
Crew Supporters' Union
Habitat: The largest of the Nordecke-dwelling groups occupies its southernmost sections, 101 and 102.
Visual Identification: Yellow and black, of course, with Columbus-based apparel company Homage (specializing in sports T-shirts with retro design) providing a new shirt design for the group each year
Defining Characteristics: Their sheer size makes them distinctive among the three main supporters' groups, and they also pride themselves on philanthropic donations, including providing free tickets for a select group of veterans and current military members for each home game.
Songs and Calls: “Glory to Columbus” is their go-to chant.
Hudson Street Hooligans
Habitat: Also in the Nordecke, congregating in and around Section 141
Visual Identification: Also yellow and black
Defining Characteristics: The Hooligans’ Katie Mitchell says the group, with numbers nearly as impressive as the Union’s, is passionate about both the Crew and the city they represent.
Songs and Calls: “Columbus 'Til I Die” is not only a favorite, but right in line with their collective stance on the city.
La Turbina Amarilla
Habitat: This group also packs into the Nordecke, along with their brothers and sisters in the Union and Hooligans.
Visual Identification: There’s a drum in their logo, so it’s no surprise that some of their supporters provide the Nordecke’s beat.
Defining Characteristics: They’re the self-declared “barra”-styled Crew supporters, so they can be counted on for chants in Spanish and drumming to underscore all of the vocal support coming out of MAPFRE’s most spirited corner.
Songs and Calls: Chants like “Vamos Columbus” define La Turbina Amarilla’s support.
