Inter Miami’s first Nu Stadium win overshadowed by supporters’ protest

Supporters' self-serving protest distracts from Herons' success

Do players have an obligation to show their appreciation to supporters after each match, win, lose or draw? That question has dominated Inter Miami media since its supporters staged an 85-minute silent protest from the start of Los Garzas’ home match Sunday against Portland. They broke their silence with a chant set to the tune of an Argentine song critical of players.

So, what was the supporters’ complaint? The groups posted a statement Monday:

"...many supporters...have increasingly felt invisible to the people on the field."
La Familia

“For 85 minutes, La Familia remained silent. No drums. No flags. No banners. No chants. Not because we stopped supporting this club. But because many supporters who give their all and their ideas to create this often-appreciated atmosphere have increasingly felt invisible to the people on the field.”

Michelle Kaufman, the Miami Herald’s lead soccer writer, did a great job explaining the fan friction and reporting that leaders of the supporters’ groups planned to meet with Inter Miami officials Wednesday to discuss their concerns. "On Thursday, she posted on the social media platform X that the meeting "was positive, productive, and group will be loud again for Sunday's game vs Philadelphia Union. Time to move on!"

"Time to move on!"
Michelle Kaufman, Miami Herald

I couldn't agree more. This embarrassing little melodrama shouldn't have happened and, hopefully, the groups committed to supporting Inter Miami never again will feel the need to hijack the narrative, especially in a way that confuses and/or offends the players they claim to support.

Here's my take: Players should acknowledge their supporters, especially those who work so hard to create a formidable stadium atmosphere. But in no way do I believe players are obligated to greet, applaud, nod, wink or wave to the supporters' or any other section.

The players are professional athletes paid to compete at a high level for our enjoyment. I had believed supporters are the most loyal and committed fans, dedicated to creating an environment that contributes to the game experience and helps energize and inspire players to greater effort. They plan, create and display tifos, wave flags and banners, drum and sing throughout matches and lead chants and cheers, and some go even further, sponsoring projects to benefit the community.

But I had always thought they committed their time and effort because they loved the team and the camaraderie of the group. Demanding special attention from the players seems petty, self-centered and demeaning. Too many things in life are transactional, but sports fandom shouldn't be.

I've already given the supporters' protest more attention than it deserves. Let's move on.

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