Usseglio: A Step in the Right Direction
BOS Nation FC Staying True to their Promises
It has been a rocky start for BOS Nation FC. With so much excitement and hope surrounding the introduction of the NWSL franchise in Boston, fans were understandably let down by the “Too Many Balls” campaign and team name. The ownership group of BOS Nation FC made it clear they heard and felt the upset voiced by those across New England and the country.
The owners made it clear they would pause and listen. They provided opportunities to get fan input and connect with the community to understand how to move forward. They said they would reach out to the other professional women’s teams in Boston, instead of ignoring them.
There were many promises made in their apology statement. Thankfully, it seems their actions are matching up to those words.
As detailed in a great article by Jackie Contreras, the ownership group released an update of the work they have been doing and the feedback they have gotten from fans. Their transparency in this process is greatly appreciated, and their willingness to address the name of the club is a welcome gesture that all NWSL Boston fans can get behind.
I have been encouraged by seeing the club’s new support for the NWSL and other professional women’s sports teams through their social media. It is a small thing, but it is a complete departure from their initial campaign, where men and the professional men’s teams in Boston were front and center.
There is still a long way to go. Fans are upset and wary about trusting the ownership group, which is warranted. Damage was done to the LGBTQIA+ community, and reparations need to continue to be made. Effort, transparency, and collaboration need to become the norm, not an exception. Things cannot go back to the way they were.
Building back trust is difficult, but it is possible. Boston is long overdue for a team in the NWSL. We are ready to support our club, we just want a club that we can be proud of.
I think we are finally on the path to get there.