Sacramento Republic FC continues to unify both fans and the city

If you were on social media last night to follow the Republic FC vs. Real Monarchs SLC playoff match through Indomitable City Soccer, Sacramento Republic FC, fans, or any other media outlet that covers the Republic FC, you’ll know how fun it was to scroll through your timeline.

My twitter feed, like many of yours perhaps, morphed into a Republic takeover. Every refresh delivered a new gem – a local bar celebrating the win, instant fan reaction (elation), and a locker room celebration with Republic super supporter Nick Fourn, which is must-watch video.

When social media wasn’t blowing up my phone, numerous texts from friends and family came rolling in to weigh in on what had just happened. It was digital euphoria.

Wherever you were to watch the Republic, a team that was given little chance to advance against the top seed Real Monarchs, survive in penalty kicks, it felt good, right? It was probably even a little sweeter given the up-and-down nature of the 2017 season.

Of course, we all want to see the club do the unthinkable and run the table as road warriors all the way to hoisting their second USL Championship, but regardless of how it plays out, let’s not lose sight of what we have — this awesome soccer club that has given us SO much.

Let’s not lose sight that we have incredible fans and a supporter group that have been side-by-side with the club over the last four years. Let’s not lose sight that many of us have formed new friendships and relationships through the Republic. Let’s not lose sight that because of our collective effort, we’re on the cusp of becoming a Major League Soccer (MLS) city.

Finally, let’s appreciate this moment and this team, because the next game might be the last time we see the likes of Emrah Klimenta and James Kiffe in Old Glory Red. I’m not an MLS scout, but one would think they’ll get a chance to play at a higher level next season (and perhaps others), so let’s savor the heck out of it Sacramento.

Nobody knows how far this playoff run will go. It might flame out next week. But for one night, the result and what I observed on social media and texts I received served as a reminder of how soccer and this club continues to unite Sacramento and its people.

Glory, Glory, Sacramento indeed.