As a Sunderland AFC fan or "mackem," it's a rollercoaster ride of emotions following your club. One minute, you're on top of the world after a victory; the next, you're gutted after a defeat. But that's all part of being a football fan, and being a Sunderland fan is no different.
Sunderland AFC is a professional football club based in the city of Sunderland in the northeast of England. Nicknamed the Black Cats, the club was founded in 1879 and has a long and storied history. The Stadium of Light, Sunderland's home ground, has a capacity of just over 49,000 and is known for its vibrant atmosphere on matchdays.
As a Sunderland fan, you learn to embrace the highs and lows of following this team. There's nothing quite like the feeling of a last-minute winner, or the joy of a cup victory. But on the flip side, there are also the crushing defeats and in recent years the heartbreak of relegation. It's an emotional rollercoaster, and then some, but that's what makes this club so special. It's a love-hate relationship, but the love always seems to outweigh the hate…..!
On matchdays, when things are going well, the atmosphere at the Stadium of Light is electric. The mackem twang, the Sunderland dialect, is in full force as fans sing songs and chant the names of their players. There's a certain pride and passion that comes with being a Sunderland fan, and it's evident in the way the supporters back this canny team.
Pre-match rituals and superstitions are also common among us Sunderland fans. Whether it's wearing the same shirt for every game or avoiding certain routes to the stadium, every fan has their way of preparing for a match. And after the final whistle, it's either time for a celebration (or a commiseration) in one of the local pubs. If the lads have done the city proud and brought home a victory, it's time for a pint (or ten). If it's a defeat, well, at least there's always next time.
But being a Sunderland fan is about more than just matchdays. It's about being a part of a community of supporters who share a common bond and love for this club. The Sunderland AFC fan base is known for its loyalty and dedication, and there's a sense of belonging that comes with being a part of it, it's special.
In recent years, social media has played a big role in fostering a sense of community among Sunderland fans. Whether it's joining fan forums and discussion groups, or following the club's official and other fan social media accounts, such as @rokerreport, there are plenty of opportunities to connect with other supporters.
The mackem twang, the distinctive dialect spoken in Sunderland, is also an important part of the club's culture. The dialect reflects the city's history and identity, with a blend of words and phrases from various sources, including Old English, Norse, and Gaelic.
Some examples of the mackem twang in use among Sunderland fans include the saying
"Haway the lads!" (a rallying cry of encouragement for the team) this is also embedded into the seats at the stadium and can be heard throughout a matchday!
The thrill of victories and the agony of defeats are two of the most intense emotions that a football fan can experience.
The thrill of victory is a feeling that is hard to describe, but it's one of the most exhilarating and joyful experiences a person can have. When this team has worked hard and managed to pull off a win, it's a moment of pure elation. The sense of accomplishment and pride that comes with a victory is indescribable, and it's something that stays with you long after the final whistle has blown.
On the other hand, the agony of defeat is a feeling that is just as powerful, but in a completely different way. When the lads have worked hard and come up short, it can be a deeply disappointing and frustrating experience. The sense of frustration can be overwhelming, and it's a feeling that stays with you through the weekend.
But despite the highs and lows, being a Sunderland fan is a journey that is filled with emotion and passion. It's a love-hate relationship, but the love always seems to outweigh the hate. And that's what makes it such a special and rewarding experience.
Whether it's through the vibrant atmosphere at the Stadium of Light, the sense of community among fans, or the distinctive mackem twang, there's something special about being a Sunderland fan.
Very special
Keep the Faith
📸-Photos by @rjxmedia via Twitter
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