Atlético Ottawa matches have become known country-wide for their electric atmosphere with some people even going as far as saying that we have the best atmosphere in Ottawa professional sports. At the core of this atmosphere are some of Atlético’s longest-standing and most dedicated supporters.
Once the whistle goes and kick-off is taken, there isn’t a quiet minute at TD Place. The raucous atmosphere and incessant chanting that emanates from Section W (affectionately called “The Dub” dating back to the early days of professional soccer in Ottawa) is synonymous with the sport around the globe – and part of a movement that is sweeping The Great White North.
Capital City Supporters Groups (CCSG) has been one of the bedrocks from which soccer has sprouted since Atlético Ottawa was announced in early 2020. Impeded by the pandemic and as the club found its feet in the local marketplace, the official supporters group’s influence, both online and in person, was crucial and continues to be the lifeblood of the in-stadium atmosphere four seasons later.
So, ahead of the 2024 Canadian Premier League season, let us introduce you to the elected council – in their own words:
Capital City Supporters Group
President: Bryce Crossman
Bryce: I didn’t grow up in Ottawa or playing soccer, but when I moved here 20+ years ago I started playing recreationally. I began attending games when the Ottawa Fury started playing at TD Place and was a regular in the supporters section before they disappeared. I was upset that I wouldn’t be able to take my kids to those games anymore, so I was ecstatic when the new Atlético Ottawa team was announced. I decided to step up my efforts, in hopes of growing support for the new team and ensuring my kids continue to have a local team to cheer for. As my activities and support grew to new levels, I joined up with CCSG because it was the only group in the city that was ready to roll with that mission. When CCSG needed a new president, I assumed the position knowing that there are many people in this city with the same interests and hopes, and knowing I can help this group grow and continue for years to come.
Vice-President: Eddie Benhin
Eddie: I’m Ottawa born and raised. I grew up playing competitive soccer for Capital United and then Gloucester Hornets. Growing up, the highest level you could play was University. Capital City FC existed for one year and then folded, and there never was a realistic option until the Fury came in – but by then, it was too late for my soccer career. That’s when I decided to get involved as a fan. I’ve been an Arsenal fan since I was 6 years old, so I knew all about the joys and pains of following a club, but what I was missing was the in-person, hands-on aspect. The Fury allowed me to get involved – but right when I was beginning to find my place in the world of supporting a pro soccer team – they folded… However, thankfully, Atlético Ottawa came into the fray right after, and I immediately dived back in. I became the first Capo (person with the megaphone leading chants at the front of The Dub) for Atlético and was the third member of CCSG having been recruited by Founder and then President, Daniel Duff. Since then it’s been a fantastic journey of growing the game alongside Atlético Ottawa. A lot of work is done behind the scenes and CCSG and Atlético both share the same vision. After years of being satisfied with just being a Capo, I have decided to try and work harder at growing the beautiful game in this city. As vice president of CCSG, my goal is to not only organically grow the love of the game but also the love of Atlético Ottawa, a community-driven grassroots soccer club, in this city. I promise to keep both CCSG and Atlético honest, with eyes on the prize of sustainability for this great sport and project in Ottawa.
Treasurer: Jonathan Hopkins
Jon: I’ve lived in Ottawa for coming up on a decade, having moved here to attend uOttawa and eventually falling in love with the city. While I played soccer in my youth, my footy career ended after high school. I was never really that interested in watching pro soccer, save for a World Cup match here and there. It felt so detached and distant, that was until I discovered ATO in 2022. I found the team online and was immediately drawn in by how approachable and affordable the tickets were. My wife and I started going to games, and fell in love with the atmosphere, and began getting more involved with CCSG through watch parties at GCP. Since then, I continued to increase my involvement with the group, helping set up match days, helping paint TIFOs, helping table and promoting the club, and leading the writers’ room for CCSG. My latest project is serving as treasurer, and helping to continue to steward this group through its growth.
CCSG are as active online throughout the year as they are in the Dub on matchdays, generating articles and leading the online conversations around Atlético Ottawa. For more information visit their website at capitalcitysupporters.com
Soccer is the Beautiful Game and Soccerlude is our reason to celebrate and showcase it, even during the winter. The Ottawa influence is strong and continuously growing. Join us for the 2024 campaign – coming to TD Place for a match is one of the greatest decisions you’ll make this year, never mind the fact that it’s incredibly affordable AND our sights are set on lifting more trophies and more winning titles. Be a part of the Atleti Family!
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