Looking for the Nordecke Supporters’ HQ Tailgate FAQ? Click here!
Q: I hear the word “Nordecke” thrown around a lot. What does it mean?
A: The Nordecke is the name for both the Supporter’s Group (made of fans and volunteers who support a variety of activities and operations) and the stadium section behind the north goal (the loud one with flags, smoke, and chants). Anyone is welcome to join the Supporter’s Group, regardless of where they sit in the stadium, and – conversely – a person may have tickets in the Nordecke section but not be a Nordecke Supporter’s Group member.
Member dues help financially support the Tifo displays, pre-game block party, and charity initiatives. You also get cool gear every year and invitations to exclusive events! If you stand/sit in the Nordecke section, join the fun! The Capos lead chants and cheers throughout the game, and hold up cue cards to help fans follow along.
Q: I want to be part of the action! How do I get involved?
A: Fill out the Volunteer form! You can select multiple activities/committees you’d like to help with. You can also watch our social media accounts for larger calls for volunteers, but a lot is organized within the committees
Q: Who’s in charge of the supporter’s group anyway?
A: We have an elected Board of Directors! All dues-paying members have the opportunity to run, nominate someone, and participate in the Board election each year.
Q: I’m a new Crew fan. Can I still get involved?
A: Of course! The Nordecke group membership is made up of fans of all ages, some of whom have been fans since 1996, and some who have only been to a few games. If you’re a new fan, this is a great way to meet people who love the Crew!
Q: The chants seem hard/confusing. How do I learn them?
A: The lyrics are available here! Also, you can join/follow Project Jukebox. During the season, they have regular practices to allow the drummers, capos, and fans to work through new chants together.
Q: The Nordecke section is General Admission, how does that work? Do I just show up, find a spot to stand in the Nordecke and enjoy myself?
A: Yes, that’s exactly what you do. There will be a section & seat number on your ticket but you can find a spot anywhere, since the entire Nordecke end of Lower.com Field is GA. The lower portion of the Nordecke is safe-standing (meaning there is no place to sit) and the top area, near the west edge, has the benches deployed for seating. If you want to sit, go up!
Q: How does parking work?
A: There are numerous parking garages and surface lots within a 30-minute walk of Lower.com Field. The best practice is to make a parking reservation ahead of time on arenadistrict.parkmobile.io.
Q: What is the point/perks of being a Nordecke member?
A: Nordecke membership has multiple benefits including, but not limited to, exclusive access to Crew tickets, Nordecke Merchandise, events, and discounts at our partners around Ohio. Additionally, membership dues are directly used to create in-stadium Tifo displays, fund community outreach & donations, and support the Columbus soccer community.
Q: What is tifo?
A: “Tifo” is the term for the large-scale visual displays that are developed and executed by the supporters group. Everything from waving flags to 80-foot painted banners are considered Tifo, and they are an integral part of the supporters culture. The Nordecke develops and funds its Tifo displays completely independently. Follow TIFOSWEAT to get involved!
Q: What is NorOnTour?
A: NorOnTour is shorthand for “Nordecke on Tour” and has come to be the travel arm of the Nordecke. Whether it’s two Crew fans or 200 going to an away match, that’s NorOnTour. The NorOnTour committee of the Nordecke works to arrange tickets for Crew fans in the Away section of selected matches, and sometimes organizes buses or hotel blocks for trips with a large group traveling to the game.
Q: What is Nordecke Community Assist?
A: Nordecke Community Assist is the charitable/community outreach arm of the Nordecke. It’s what we mean when we say we support the Columbus community. Whether it’s a supply drive for Kaleidoscope Youth Center, donating tickets to CRIS (Community Refugee & Immigration Services), or holding a voter registration drive, we’re passionate about being good citizens in our communities.
Q: What should I know as a total newbie before attending my first match?
A: You should know that there is no wrong way to attend a Crew match or be a Crew fan. Whether you’re singing and chanting at the top of your lungs or sitting and evaluating the tactics, or just having a night out with your friends, you’re welcome in the Nordecke. Sure, the majority of people in the Nordecke are fully devoted to supporting the team for 90 minutes, but there’s no wrong way to do that. As long as you’re abiding by the code of conduct – don’t throw beer, please – and not making the rest of us look bad, you’re doing it right. Just do what you’re comfortable with and have a great time!