Fans are the custodians of the LA Galaxy

Supporting a team which has been around almost a quarter century has its benefits.

LA Galaxy fans who spend their time on social media have easy access to among other personalities, a club podcast, a club historian, a club outfitter of retro goods, a pin vendor and other experts at their craft who contribute to the culture of the club.

Interestingly none of these assets are associated with the Galaxy themselves, but were created independently by the fans.

Photo credit should read MARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images

Before LA soccer fans trekked to Carson they drove to Pasadena, where large crowds would dine on King Taco and nod to Macarena while Mauricio Cienfuegos, Cobi Jones, Kevin Hartman and the other legends put on a show at the Rose Bowl. It was the El Salvador playmaker who drew an impressively loyal following, with his fellow countrymen and women packing the south bowl on game days: No one received louder cheers than Cien.

The move to the $237 million Home Depot Center signaled a new era, and the signing of David Beckham changed the landscape of the league. Three MLS Cups later, many longtime fans have created more unforgettable memories than they can remember. (And have you even been on an away trip? I’d start with Portland)

It’s rare for a professional soccer club to sustain success for 25 years, much less in a league with the relative parity of MLS. A few transitional phases aside, the Galaxy have achieved this feat, and in the process forged a unique fanbase spanning multiple generations. The immense popularity of the retro kits drives this point home. The designs are delightfully 90’s, but there are memories behind the fabric: Many involving goals and trophies.

Fast forward to the present day and there is Galaxy Twitter, the all-encompassing independent group of die-hard fans who talk all things Galaxy all day long. Jumping into the community makes it easier to break the ice with your fellow supporters, and can even enhance your experience at games, tailgates and other events where you can talk it up in person with your virtual buddies, some of whom become great friends.

We got a taste of this earlier in the year at a Corner of the Galaxy live gig. Josh Guesman and the assembled co-hosts put on a fun show at TAPS Brewery while the sizable crowd mingled with joy. Everyone seemed to know each other, like Cheers, but with an engaging podcast in the background. Highly recommended.

A theme that’s popped up this week and resonated with some fans is the notion the organization could be doing more to engage with the community and tap into the rich history of the club.

Of course, this is easier said than done. Many of the popular logos and other designs used by vendors are owned by rival competitor Nike, and as it is the club should be commended for not cracking down on those who could potentially could be cutting into their profit margins. That being said, there’s another saying.

Give the people what they want.