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Ivy
06-30-2015, 06:33 PM
Why are you not RPB members?

FRANKIE65
06-30-2015, 07:12 PM
Why are you not RPB members?

Great question. I'm a member of Kings In The North, don't think it would be right to be a member of both. Love this forum, and, respect the RPB.

Red4ever
06-30-2015, 07:19 PM
I've often wondered this. So much passion from so many regulars. Would love to have more in the family.

Cuppy
06-30-2015, 07:37 PM
Why are you not RPB members?
The million $ question has finally been asked

MartinUtd
06-30-2015, 07:40 PM
At first I was put off by the tit for tat between supporters groups for the newly minted team. Eventually when I tried to get membership ahead of the 2012 season so I could have access to the away supporters forum, they said I could join and that they'd grant me access to the forum but nobody every came through for me despite several attempts at reaching out. After my big trip out west came and passed, I didn't bother pursuing it again.

Jpexxx
06-30-2015, 07:53 PM
Me and my dad have had seats in 107 since 2008. Respect the supporters but it wouldn't be my dad's kinda bag to stand in that section. More important for me to spend the games with him.

As for the boards, I find the RPB to be the most active for discussion, as well as the quickest to update news/ transfers. Lurked the board for years before I bothered getting an account.

portu
06-30-2015, 07:55 PM
Bc I'm still in high school if I end up going to u of t next year I'll 100% try my best to be in the stands singing

OgtheDim
06-30-2015, 08:01 PM
The million $ question has finally been asked

Its been asked before. Don't expect many answers. And don't take that to mean anything.

The Internet is a strange place - people do things on it for many different reasons, including how much information about themselves they give up.

BuSaPuNk
06-30-2015, 08:20 PM
Me and my dad have had seats in 107 since 2008. Respect the supporters but it wouldn't be my dad's kinda bag to stand in that section. More important for me to spend the games with him.

As for the boards, I find the RPB to be the most active for discussion, as well as the quickest to update news/ transfers. Lurked the board for years before I bothered getting an account.

And this is one big problem. We have members all through out the stadium.

You don't have to be in 112 to be a member.
You don't need to have to be in supporters to be a member.

There's many ways to contribute to the group besides being in the south or 112.

This group is from different walks of life and age brackets. Were not all crazy mental supporters in the south and we never will be.

The diversity in this group is one of the major reasons i got into this group. Its a group for anyone there is always a role or way to help the group or volunteer your time to initiatives.

BuSaPuNk
06-30-2015, 08:27 PM
Great question. I'm a member of Kings In The North, don't think it would be right to be a member of both. Love this forum, and, respect the RPB.

Really good reason.

Would love to have these guys and guys from any group have there own logos on the boards to show there part of the extended family of support. Calling the matrix!!!!

reggie
06-30-2015, 08:42 PM
ive been in the past...i dont see the tailgate parties anymore..and i dont get down to shoeless that often..what is the fee and how can i pay?

BuSaPuNk
06-30-2015, 08:55 PM
ive been in the past...i dont see the tailgate parties anymore..and i dont get down to shoeless that often..what is the fee and how can i pay?

http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/showthread.php?37050-Membership-in-the-Red-Patch-Boys

Tailgates have been on the backburner with stadium expansion, Indy, PanAm, ect.

Something we still need to figure out space now that the site is a construction site probably going into next year.

Ossington Mental Youth
06-30-2015, 09:08 PM
Was here long before this was a group when it was toronto FC forum or whatever. Not a fan of groups, nothing against them just don't feel the need. Interesting conversation, rumours and decent people keep me coming back

justin
06-30-2015, 09:29 PM
i was a very active member in seasons 1-3, i'm sure there are some that remember me. Two things pushed me away. At the time i started to drift away, there was a lot of annoying bullshitty drama between groups which turned me off, and then I started financing my then gf now wife through 5.5 years of post secondary, so i really didn't have any spare money to throw at a perpetually shitty team.

She finally graduated last month though...hope to start being able to attend some games again in the not too distant future, re-connect with some old friends.

backbeat
06-30-2015, 09:36 PM
I've thought of it may times over the 8 years.

i don't live in the 'supporters' section(s) - i'm in 223 or 207

i'd be happy to support and be part of the family but not sure how it would help.

the other point i'll make is i've notice a section at the centre, behind the south goal, that is quite loud and proud. who are they?

i've always thought it would be great to get all the groups coordinated together - on the same page, as it were.

i do note that there is a T O chant back and forth between the groups that is very loud throughout the stadium....

what is that? it resonates.... as does the, 'Qu'est-ce que vous chantez?' chant

TFC07
06-30-2015, 09:51 PM
I simply don't have time and patience to be part of supporters group.

The only reason I am here because this is most active TFC forum on the internet.

portu
06-30-2015, 10:13 PM
And this is one big problem. We have members all through out the stadium.

You don't have to be in 112 to be a member.
You don't need to have to be in supporters to be a member.

There's many ways to contribute to the group besides being in the south or 112.

This group is from different walks of life and age brackets. Were not all crazy mental supporters in the south and we never will be.

The diversity in this group is one of the major reasons i got into this group. Its a group for anyone there is always a role or way to help the group or volunteer your time to initiatives.
How can I volunteer and for what? I'm not really familiar with how things work tbh but I'd love to be able to help if I can in anyway.

shwade
06-30-2015, 10:13 PM
Too lazy to do 'member'ish stuff...I'll leave that to better people.

Here for the discussions and insight.

__wowza
06-30-2015, 10:24 PM
I've often wondered this. So much passion from so many regulars. Would love to have more in the family.

i think this is what it's about for me.

Ultra & Proud
06-30-2015, 10:32 PM
I've been U-Sector since the start but since the U-Sec board is slow nowadays on talk and the talk here is usually more involved and often more psychotic, I find it interesting. And addictive. So I post and chat here. And like above, I don't think I should be both.

BuSaPuNk
06-30-2015, 10:38 PM
How can I volunteer and for what? I'm not really familiar with how things work tbh but I'd love to be able to help if I can in anyway.

Banners, Tifo painting and the such.

Setup and tear down at BMO of banners and flags.

Drums in 112.

Designing banners, tifo, ideas and input

thats just the start of the things just on a game day.

__wowza
06-30-2015, 10:39 PM
How can I volunteer and for what? I'm not really familiar with how things work tbh but I'd love to be able to help if I can in anyway.


i'd be happy to support and be part of the family but not sure how it would help.

i think that's why ivy's asking.
the different teams (banner / membership / tailgate / etc) will most likely look at this stuff and use it as feedback.
if the same questions keep coming up, then those questions definitely need answering.


the other point i'll make is i've notice a section at the centre, behind the south goal, that is quite loud and proud. who are they?

i've always thought it would be great to get all the groups coordinated together - on the same page, as it were.

that's a mix of RPB and inebriatti.
the politics age ended a couple of seasons ago. there was a lot of bad blood with the groups because we were all trying to carve out our own identities. who did what, when they did it, how they did it, etc. each group had their pros and cons. all of the groups have collaborated on a few projects this season: we had a capo meetup in march, and two banners banners since then (with a few more rumoured on the way). that's three events more than we've done since 2012. g:D

Pint
06-30-2015, 10:41 PM
Leader of Kings in the North, does that count?

BuSaPuNk
06-30-2015, 10:48 PM
Leader of Kings in the North...

Nah you don't say :p

hahahaha

__wowza
06-30-2015, 10:51 PM
Bc I'm still in high school if I end up going to u of t next year I'll 100% try my best to be in the stands singing

which campus? don't go to UTSC, it's a toliet.


At first I was put off by the tit for tat between supporters groups for the newly minted team. Eventually when I tried to get membership ahead of the 2012 season so I could have access to the away supporters forum, they said I could join and that they'd grant me access to the forum but nobody every came through for me despite several attempts at reaching out. After my big trip out west came and passed, I didn't bother pursuing it again.

i think everybody was put off with the tit for tat. i don't go to games and browse the forums to see politics and bickering.
as for the membership thing, that sucks. i know everyone volunteers to do these things, but that's really not any consolation.

brad
06-30-2015, 10:54 PM
I was a member for years, but ultimately I'm just not involved in the group so I let it go. I come here because it's a place to talk TFC with like minded people, not because of an affinity with the group. I suspect that is the answer for a lot of folks.

Pint
06-30-2015, 10:56 PM
Nah you don't say :p

hahahaha

So does that count?

I appreciate the board as talking TFC is something i enjoy immensely. The intergroup communication has been really good so anyone staying away due to the old rivalries need not worry anymore.

Red CB Toronto
06-30-2015, 11:13 PM
From my perspective our board is the most active TFC discussion by far and thus will attract like minded people just looking for an outlet to discuss the team and its going ons. At the end of the day RPB is about supporting TFC and raising its profile and some of our registered users are some of the most active posters on the board and add a lot to the discussion, thus offer a lot.

portu
06-30-2015, 11:27 PM
which campus? don't go to UTSC, it's a toilet.
I still have my grade 12 year but I know well enough to stay away from there

Brooker
06-30-2015, 11:59 PM
I support U-Sector and RPB's the same.

I love chilling with both groups. The thing about being a part of any group, is if a bit of drama breaks out, everyone has to choose a side.

Me and my friends are just the guys who drink in the park at Lamport before games with anybody and we sing in the stands with anybody.

And I love this board because I can rage in the Leafs thread. Ask BFin. He'll vouch for me.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFo2uiwjIJQ

hulkrogan
07-01-2015, 03:42 AM
I live in Calgary. All the TFC games I've attended have been out west. I might as well wait for the roof at BMO to make my début :scarf:

Pookie
07-01-2015, 07:15 AM
I was a member for years, but ultimately I'm just not involved in the group so I let it go. I come here because it's a place to talk TFC with like minded people, not because of an affinity with the group. I suspect that is the answer for a lot of folks.

Pretty close to my answer.

I refuse to give MLSE any more of my money and don't go to games near as much as I used to. I also have found this expansion of the playoff format to have really put a wet blanket on the excitement I used for feel for an individual match.

If you don't give the team money and you find the results kind of "that's nice, wake me when it matters" it would be hypocritical of me to say I was part of a supporter's group. As a result, my RPB Membership became a casualty.

I really respect those of you that put your time and energy into the team and the RPB. The amount of work, commitment and resources you put into this are truly unique in the world of sport.

ensco
07-01-2015, 07:59 AM
I appreciate everything that the organizers of this group do to maintain this board. It is tons of work. Thank you Phil and the mods.

woolly
07-01-2015, 08:46 AM
I was an active RBP in the first few years, but all the friends I had back then drifted away, and I got burned by a fellow RBP who scammed me for nearly a half seasons worth of tickets.

It left a bitter taste, and I have been no more than a lurker since.

Alixir
07-01-2015, 09:43 AM
Why are you not RPB members?
I have been registered since the old RPB forums back in 2007. I am not a member due to the fact that although I am from TO I spend more time living in Japan and bounce back and forth. I use this site and its great group of RPBers on here for updates and info. I enjoy checking this site daily as you find more info and news about TFC on here then you do on any of the major sports sites including TFCs own site.
If I ever do a permanent move back to TO I will probably get a membership.

Eleven
07-01-2015, 10:24 AM
1. It is difficult to imagine calling myself one of the Red Patch Boys while I lack the requisite boy parts. I respect the significance and honour of the name. I am indifferent to any gender-biased groups and their rights to exist.

2. In spite of point #1, I had considered membership because I have design & drumming (base drum in a marching band!) experience and lots of ideas.

3. Clarity of expectations. I know what one gets with membership; however, what is expected of a member, specifically?? How about an "open day" to get the feel, an "intro", etc.

4. This forum was a means to figuring out whether to join or not, learning more about the game, reading viewpoints, getting transfer rumours, team news in general.

5. Went to Joe's during last season's march to final home Montreal game, found it "clique"ish. Lots of closed groups of people and it was very difficult to " integrate". A lot less welcoming than I have experienced with non-supporter groups congregating at a pub I.E. Oranje supporters at Betty's on King East. Maybe #3 would help.

6. the FHRITP thing happened. IIRC, in 20 pages, all of 2 posters mentioned having actually discussed with a woman, her viewpoint. But it was a few of the other posters whose thought processes "worried" me. I wouldn't want to inadvertently be having a beer with him.

I didn't want to "out" myself as female here, but oh well. I hope my response contributes to RPB being able to grow its membership.

BuSaPuNk
07-01-2015, 10:32 AM
I live in Calgary. All the TFC games I've attended have been out west. I might as well wait for the roof at BMO to make my début :scarf:


I have been registered since the old RPB forums back in 2007. I am not a member due to the fact that although I am from TO I spend more time living in Japan and bounce back and forth. I use this site and its great group of RPBers on here for updates and info. I enjoy checking this site daily as you find more info and news about TFC on here then you do on any of the major sports sites including TFCs own site.
If I ever do a permanent move back to TO I will probably get a membership.

Another myth. You don't even need to live in Toronto to be a member. We have members from the US, other provinces and even the UK and beyond.

Just because your not here in body doesn't mean you can't be a member. The support from people outside of the GTA who dont usually make every game is just as important then someone who does.

By supporting this club by membership your still helping with the day to day operation of the club. Your membership goes to banner and tifo creation so its like your helping us just as much as someone who paints.

It also goes to maintaining this measage board for everyone to use. We love that we have the biggest outlet for people to talk shop about TFC, MLS, ect but it doesn't come free. God wish it did.

Being someone who isnt around or not at every game your voice in membership is just as important as the drummer or the capo thats there week in and week out.

Eleven
07-01-2015, 10:46 AM
.... Your membership... also goes to maintaining this measage board for everyone to use. We love that we have the biggest outlet for people to talk shop about TFC, MLS, ect but it doesn't come free.

Perhaps there can be different membership levels/options/combinations? E.g.
"Virtual" or "Passenger" - say $5/$10 for forum costs
"Cabin Crew" - $10/$15 - occasional attendee and/or those with limited expendable $$ but can contribute in "committed" time and/or materials?
"Cockpit" - Full membership?

*addition*
No idea what forum costs are but does TFC contribute/donate? If not, why not?

BuSaPuNk
07-01-2015, 10:50 AM
I live in Calgary. All the TFC games I've attended have been out west. I might as well wait for the roof at BMO to make my début :scarf:


1. It is difficult to imagine calling myself one of the Red Patch Boys while I lack the requisite boy parts. I respect the significance and honour of the name. I am indifferent to any gender-biased groups and their rights to exist.

2. In spite of point #1, I had considered membership because I have design & drumming (base drum in a marching band!) experience and lots of ideas.

3. Clarity of expectations. I know what one gets with membership; however, what is expected of a member, specifically?? How about an "open day" to get the feel, an "intro", etc.

4. This forum was a means to figuring out whether to join or not, learning more about the game, reading viewpoints, getting transfer rumours, team news in general.

5. Went to Joe's during last season's march to final home Montreal game, found it "clique"ish. Lots of closed groups of people and it was very difficult to " integrate". A lot less welcoming than I have experienced with non-supporter groups congregating at a pub I.E. Oranje supporters at Betty's on King East. Maybe #3 would help.

6. the FHRITP thing happened. IIRC, in 20 pages, all of 2 posters mentioned having actually discussed with a woman, her viewpoint. But it was a few of the other posters whose thought processes "worried" me. I wouldn't want to inadvertently be having a beer with him.

I didn't want to "out" myself as female here, but oh well. I hope my response contributes to RPB being able to grow its membership.

Thanks for your honesty.

There is alot of good points you raise here and I hope people really take them to heart.

There is a clique element that is mostly alot of people have friendships that are also outside of the group so they usually hang together.

But we can be alot more open that is true.

Away viewings are a great time to come by and get introduced and "integrate" if you will. There are usually a smaller group that allows thst to happen at away game viewings. Joes on a home game is usually packed and tough to move around.

Now if we had a dedicated area at Joes for membership with people there that people can talk to and learn more about the group and who and what we are, would that be helpful to someone in your situation?

BuSaPuNk
07-01-2015, 10:53 AM
Perhaps there can be different membership levels/options/combinations? E.g.
"Virtual" or "Passenger" - say $5/$10 for forum costs
"Cabin Crew" - $10/$15 - occasional attendee and/or those with limited expendable $$ but can contribute in "committed" time and/or materials?
"Cockpit" - Full membership?

*addition*
No idea what forum costs are but does TFC contribute/donate? If not, why not?

Its something that can be discussed for sure we have already had discussions about having different levels of membership.

No everything this group does is outside of the Front Office of TFC. We are a completely independent group.

Thanks for the suggestion :)

Discostu81
07-01-2015, 11:12 AM
I registered for the boards quite some time ago but never received the email I needed to complete my registration. So I signed up again with a new account and lo and behold it works! Huzzah.

I share a couple of pairs of season seats so I either sit in 226 or 120. Didn't really understand that membership was open to all, not just those who sit in the south stand. Now I'm aware that is the case, I shall cough up the dough asap!

Eleven
07-01-2015, 11:21 AM
Away viewings are a great time to come by and get introduced and "integrate" if you will. There are usually a smaller group that allows thst to happen at away game viewings. Joes on a home game is usually packed and tough to move around.

Now if we had a dedicated area at Joes for membership with people there that people can talk to and learn more about the group and who and what we are, would that be helpful to someone in your situation?
Actually, did go to an away viewing...it was same night of Nuit Blanche last season. (Hah! I think in seasons not years :p). I initiated conversation with the 4-6 guys sitting at the bar. Names exchanged, don't remember names anymore, but no idea if they were members or not. In all, there weren't more than a dozen red wearing patrons watching the game.

Just even in general, I imagine it would probably help if a "drop-in" had someone to talk to, table or not. If someone looks "lost", initiate the convo with him/her... looking for someone? lost? first time here? live in GTA? Visiting tourist? I think being open and welcoming as a group, even with cliques, is far more conducive to membership expansion than a table for the newbies. I'm not saying the first clique has to accept a new person into their group... just welcome someone new, chat a few " get to know you lines" then intro the person to either the New Members signer-upper or to another clique. If a person feels welcome and at ease in such a huge crowd, I'd think there's a better chance of that person wanting to join.

Ossington Mental Youth
07-01-2015, 11:24 AM
Perhaps there can be different membership levels/options/combinations? E.g.
"Virtual" or "Passenger" - say $5/$10 for forum costs
"Cabin Crew" - $10/$15 - occasional attendee and/or those with limited expendable $$ but can contribute in "committed" time and/or materials?
"Cockpit" - Full membership?

*addition*
No idea what forum costs are but does TFC contribute/donate? If not, why not?

Miss me with forum costs, sounds selfish but its true

Eleven
07-01-2015, 11:39 AM
No everything this group does is outside of the Front Office of TFC. We are a completely independent group.

Getting help from TFC FO in funding this forum does not = giving up independence ;)

If anything, the FO must now realise, after they experienced the 20+ minute silence, they need to ensure growth and health of supporter groups to grow its own revenue. This forum is an undeniably far-reaching and possibly most cost effective way of exposing the club to more tix sales/SSH.

Also, if RPB had "exclusive" events where a player joins in an activity (tifo?) or meet a starting player? Or a ticketed event as revenue generator? Or 12 signed DP jerseys, one give-away a month to a member-of--the-month? TFC could easily donate that while RPB remains fully independent, non?

BuSaPuNk
07-01-2015, 11:44 AM
Getting help from TFC FO in funding this forum does not = giving up independence ;)

If anything, the FO must now realise, after they experienced the 20+ minute silence, they need to ensure growth and health of supporter groups to grow its own revenue. This forum is an undeniably far-reaching and possibly most cost effective way of exposing the club to more tix sales/SSH.

Also, if RPB had "exclusive" events where a player joins in an activity (tifo?) or meet a starting player? Or a ticketed event as revenue generator? Or 12 signed DP jerseys, one give-away a month to a member-of--the-month? TFC could easily donate that while RPB remains fully independent, non?

Not exactly. There will always be strings to anything the FO does for us. It usually revolves around sponsors and such and we don't want to start that.

We have had players at Joes for games. Caldwell, Bradley, Wiedeman, Hall just to name a few.

Eleven
07-01-2015, 11:51 AM
Miss me with forum costs, sounds selfish but its true
Not suggesting it as a requirement for forum participation... but access to the member parts of the forum and maybe those who wish to contribute to forum costs to ensure its continued existence.

Open, current non-member parts of this forum need to continue as is in order to attract new fans as well as contribute to its healthy activity.

I've been a member of a coffee forum that began in early 2000. It nearly shut down earlier this year due to costs. Ironically, the more active the forum became, the closer it was to closing due to costs. Thankfully, one founding member, a well-respected successful coffee business owner bought the rights from the other founding member and is now footing the bill.

Eleven
07-01-2015, 12:05 PM
It usually revolves around sponsors and such and we don't want to start that.

We have had players at Joes for games. Caldwell, Bradley, Wiedeman, Hall just to name a few.

I'd argue that RPB IS a sponsor...indirectly. I'm stubborn. And TFC FO would be silly to NOT recognise/insist on tying their threads of red and sponsorship to helping their supporter groups. Growing supporter groups indirectly grows TFC revenue. More involvement = better atmosphere = more attendance = more swag & concession sales. No FO fingers in RPB operations full stop. That would be the conversation/agreement I'd have with FO.

Again, I'm the stubborn type.

Eleven
07-01-2015, 12:05 PM
Yeeesh, time flies. Lunch time!

Jack
07-01-2015, 01:20 PM
I'd argue that RPB IS a sponsor...indirectly. I'm stubborn. And TFC FO would be silly to NOT recognise/insist on tying their threads of red and sponsorship to helping their supporter groups. Growing supporter groups indirectly grows TFC revenue. More involvement = better atmosphere = more attendance = more swag & concession sales. No FO fingers in RPB operations full stop. That would be the conversation/agreement I'd have with FO.

Again, I'm the stubborn type.

We do not always see eye to eye with the FO and maintaining complete financial separation allows us to keep our positions clear. We often work together with them, but we don't need or want MLS mandated sponsor activity rammed down our throats, either.

Jack
07-01-2015, 01:38 PM
1. It is difficult to imagine calling myself one of the Red Patch Boys while I lack the requisite boy parts. I respect the significance and honour of the name. I am indifferent to any gender-biased groups and their rights to exist.
Valid point. In spite of this, we have many female members who are strong contributors and the gender-specific name hasn't limited them. I agree it could be seen as something less than inclusive. It would be a tough thing to change the name at this stage, but your point is valid.


2. In spite of point #1, I had considered membership because I have design & drumming (base drum in a marching band!) experience and lots of ideas.
As a regular drummer in the stands, I'd love to hear from you on this one!


3. Clarity of expectations. I know what one gets with membership; however, what is expected of a member, specifically?? How about an "open day" to get the feel, an "intro", etc.
More info on membership: http://redpatchboys.ca/membership/
By-laws (based on the original group Charter) http://redpatchboys.ca/bylaws/

The basic expectation of members is to contribute what you can to group activities and support TFC, all out, all the time.




4. This forum was a means to figuring out whether to join or not, learning more about the game, reading viewpoints, getting transfer rumours, team news in general.
Good. That's one of the reasons it's here.


5. Went to Joe's during last season's march to final home Montreal game, found it "clique"ish. Lots of closed groups of people and it was very difficult to " integrate". A lot less welcoming than I have experienced with non-supporter groups congregating at a pub I.E. Oranje supporters at Betty's on King East. Maybe #3 would help.
It can sometimes be hard to find the new people and integrate them. We could do a better job of that, I suppose.


6. the FHRITP thing happened. IIRC, in 20 pages, all of 2 posters mentioned having actually discussed with a woman, her viewpoint. But it was a few of the other posters whose thought processes "worried" me. I wouldn't want to inadvertently be having a beer with him.
The opinions expressed are those of the posters, not the group (I know, I know). We voiced our strong condemnation of the whole thing. It was absolutely offside and not in line with our values as a group.


I didn't want to "out" myself as female here, but oh well. I hope my response contributes to RPB being able to grow its membership.
I appreciate you taking the time to give thoughtful feedback. I hope you will continue to participate and don't feel shy about introducing yourself at Joe's or at games. I promise not to "clique" you. Online interaction is great, but this group was built in person.

Jack
07-01-2015, 01:42 PM
i was a very active member in seasons 1-3, i'm sure there are some that remember me. Two things pushed me away. At the time i started to drift away, there was a lot of annoying bullshitty drama between groups which turned me off, and then I started financing my then gf now wife through 5.5 years of post secondary, so i really didn't have any spare money to throw at a perpetually shitty team.

She finally graduated last month though...hope to start being able to attend some games again in the not too distant future, re-connect with some old friends.
It would be great to see you back at games. If you'd like to come down, let me know and I'll save my extra ticket for you.

bigredone
07-01-2015, 09:21 PM
This is my first year with tickets in the south end. It is like dipping my toes in the water. Didn't take long to fall in love with the atmosphere. Thanks to all who make noise.:drum::flare:This season is the best so far for more reasons than the product on the pitch.

TFC/Everton
07-01-2015, 10:13 PM
Great thread. Everyone on the forum should join, if possible!

__wowza
07-02-2015, 04:05 AM
I got burned by a fellow RBP who scammed me for nearly a half seasons worth of tickets.

i don't wanna do the whole "that was just ONE person, and doesn't reflect the group" song and dance, because that's pretty shitty.


5. Went to Joe's during last season's march to final home Montreal game, found it "clique"ish. Lots of closed groups of people and it was very difficult to " integrate". A lot less welcoming than I have experienced with non-supporter groups congregating at a pub I.E. Oranje supporters at Betty's on King East. Maybe #3 would help.

i wanted to touch on this part specifically, with my story at least, because it looks like a few people hit the other points.

i have really bad social anxiety. you can't really tell because i'm normally the guy who never shuts up.. but it took me awhile to get involved in the group because i experienced what you described. i walked into joe's back in 08 and was like.. "yeah, not happening". when i started going to smaller events (banner painting sessions, banner planning stuff, etc), i felt a bit more comfortable, and people were more receptive to a random stranger showing up. some people can pull up to a booth and go "hey! i'm so-and-so. you on the boards at all?", some people can't. i'm extra sensitive to stuff like this, so being in a smaller group of people made dialogue / getting to know people a lot easier. it wasn't a beer or two a half hour before the match in a crowded bar. hell, the first time i ever put a face to a board name was when i met up with FYRC and another dude in a coffee shop planing a design for the CONCACAF game against LA. it got easier from there.

it seemed like a clique at first, but i realized it's kinda just a bunch of random groups of friends. which i think is the definition of a clique? i don't know.
like.. i'm alrigh with everyone, but i enjoy talking to busapunk about wrestling. i enjoy annoying fizik with D&D stories he doesn't give a shit about.
i find that whenever i go to greece viewing parties people are more willing to talk to me randomly, but it's less "how was camping last weekend?" and more "heyyyyyy! it's this guy!"

i think it's kind've a two way street for me. half of the time i wonder if it'd be weird randomly introducing myself to someone, the other half i'm wondering if they're thinking the same. then again we also have members who're more standoffish, or they're there with their kids, or partners, or whatever. i don't know where i'm going with this. i don't wanna speak for other people and it's 5AM.

long story short; i know a few other folks have mentioned the clique aspect before, but to be honest, members have been around through surgeries, shitty seasons, big signings weddings, funerals, you name it. some have formed some pretty tight bonds, some are more laid back about it. either way, if you see someone with a lucha mask at joe's come say hi.


Not suggesting it as a requirement for forum participation... but access to the member parts of the forum and maybe those who wish to contribute to forum costs to ensure its continued existence.

Open, current non-member parts of this forum need to continue as is in order to attract new fans as well as contribute to its healthy activity.

to be completely honest, i'd get my membership for the members section alone. i dig the song / design stuff, but having a say in what the group presents directly (voting banners, scarves, chants, etc) is kinda cool. right now we're in the midst of redesigning match threads based off input from the members. plus chrisfizik has been doing TFC photoblogs for games which are fuckin awesome, on top of the fact that free tickets tend to pop up there pretty often. i'm not telling people to get membership for the chance to get free tickets (it's an awesome bonus), all i can say is one of those tickets already paid for the cost of my membership and i get a whack of content on top of it, not to mention the other perks.

Ivy
07-02-2015, 05:37 AM
And THAT, my friends, is how you pull off a 5AM preach.
Amen brother.

Wince
07-02-2015, 06:19 AM
Why are you not RPB members?

I live in Newfoundland.

Wince
07-02-2015, 06:24 AM
As for the boards, I find the RPB to be the most active for discussion, as well as the quickest to update news/ transfers.

This.

RPB Forum is the best source for TFC news/rumours I've found. I could follow people on Twitter/Instagram, or read foreign football publications and get the news faster, but you guys do all that for me. RPB forum makes it so easy for me to be an educated TFC fan.

BuSaPuNk
07-02-2015, 06:36 AM
I live in Newfoundland.

Just because your not in Toronto game in game out you can still support the group with membership. We have members in Detroit, Alberta, Saskatchewan, BC, and across the pond on both sides of the country. Having a membership supports the group and gives people a way to be even more invested into TFC by proxy if you will. Supporting the group and the atmosphere the group brings to games is a measure of our membership.

Because of everyone who is a member we are able to continue to support TFC in a way we all want to see. A solid 90 mins game in game out voices high approach.

Initial B
07-02-2015, 08:09 AM
I live in Ottawa but I grew up in Toronto. I try to attend TFC games when they're in Montreal (I have plans for attending the October game), but with 3 kids money is tight.

There's also the matter of supporting the Fury, but I can justify that one is NASL while the other is MLS. But if it ever comes to a Voyageur's Cup match, the local team will get my support.

Mateo1985
07-02-2015, 09:05 AM
I'm a new RPB member. Just signed up this year for this board and the RPB its self. My first RPB experience was at an away game viewing (Dallas game with the rain delay). I was hesitant to come up to a bunch of guys wearing TFC swag at first but when I did they ended up being a really cool bunch of guys who were very welcoming. I walked into to Joe's alone and walked out with at least 7 new friends so don't be shy lol.... Just join, come and introduce your self!!! It's worth it!!!

Mark in Ottawa
07-02-2015, 09:22 AM
I end up asking myself every season ... Why am I still a member of RPB?
The answer is that as an older fan "from away" I was amazed at how welcomed I was when I first joined up. People understood that I could not be as involved as the locals in the RPB activities but that did not stop them from offering me a chance to help where and when I could and wanted to. Tailgates, membership at Joes pre-game, the occasional banner or two stick painting session on game day in the BMO parking lot ... it was all good and a chance to make new friends.

Yeah ... they call themselves Red Patch BOYS ... but who could forget the ladies of the club getting together and doing a calendar for charity early on??
The skull and crossbones with the Red Eye patch? A classic done up by one of the female members of the RPB.
It showed the kinds of people I was dealing with and I appreciated that the RPB was more than just TFC support and more than just a bunch of guys.

I am one of the original 75 Mile Bastards and that made me realize that I was not unique as far as my situation supporting TFC goes.
I don't get to TFC games as much as I used to but still feel very welcome by old friends when I do.

I can afford the $2 or so a month it costs to be an RPB member. It supports club activities and allows the supporters group to have an independent voice for me and for all of us. And so I keep up my membership, as well as my membership with The Bytown Boys here in Ottawa, and will do as long as I can ... and as long as you will have me hanging around. Keep up the good work.

Joe Kool
07-02-2015, 09:54 AM
I have contemplated whether it makes sense for me to remain a member for some time now for a number of reasons. I live in Ajax which is not too far from TO but definitely not drop-in distance to go to Joe's for away games and I find it hard to make it down to the stadium area early enough to make it to Joe's on gamedays. I know there was a Durham chapter of RPB trying to get stuff together for away game viewing up here from time to time but my other big problem I have with participating in anything is my wife's health. She has a fairly critical and chronic condition that ties up alot of my time with me taking care of her so I can't even make it to a local bar that often. That is also why I can't make it downtown to banner sessions or anything usually because I can't really leave her alone on weeknights and my kids are not old enough to take care of her either. I would love to be more involved and my kids would love to be part of things too. Maybe one day. As far as renewing my membership every year I do it without question for the most part. I don't find it is very much money and if the money helps with a banner or whatever I am good with it since I can't be there. I have not met alot of RPB over the years but the ones I have are great people from all walks of life. My kids were lucky enough to participate in the RPB player escorts a few times and I have brought them for some RPB marches. I find the people running the group seem to be really good people and work really hard to keep things going in a dignified manner and I appreciate that. It brings me pride to be part of the group and I always figure one day I may be able to contribute more. For now I will just chime in on the board and attend things where I can. Alot of registered users on this board really contribute alot of good commentary too. I appreciate everyone that contributes in a positive way....member or non-member. It all enriches my TFC supporter experience. Cheers!

BuSaPuNk
07-02-2015, 10:16 AM
I'm a new RPB member. Just signed up this year for this board and the RPB its self. My first RPB experience was at an away game viewing (Dallas game with the rain delay). I was hesitant to come up to a bunch of guys wearing TFC swag at first but when I did they ended up being a really cool bunch of guys who were very welcoming. I walked into to Joe's alone and walked out with at least 7 new friends so don't be shy lol.... Just join, come and introduce your self!!! It's worth it!!!

Glad you on board bud, you've been a great help!


I end up asking myself every season ... Why am I still a member of RPB?
The answer is that as an older fan "from away" I was amazed at how welcomed I was when I first joined up. People understood that I could not be as involved as the locals in the RPB activities but that did not stop them from offering me a chance to help where and when I could and wanted to. Tailgates, membership at Joes pre-game, the occasional banner or two stick painting session on game day in the BMO parking lot ... it was all good and a chance to make new friends.

Yeah ... they call themselves Red Patch BOYS ... but who could forget the ladies of the club getting together and doing a calendar for charity early on??
The skull and crossbones with the Red Eye patch? A classic done up by one of the female members of the RPB.
It showed the kinds of people I was dealing with and I appreciated that the RPB was more than just TFC support and more than just a bunch of guys.

I am one of the original 75 Mile Bastards and that made me realize that I was not unique as far as my situation supporting TFC goes.
I don't get to TFC games as much as I used to but still feel very welcome by old friends when I do.

I can afford the $2 or so a month it costs to be an RPB member. It supports club activities and allows the supporters group to have an independent voice for me and for all of us. And so I keep up my membership, as well as my membership with The Bytown Boys here in Ottawa, and will do as long as I can ... and as long as you will have me hanging around. Keep up the good work.

Great to hear Mark. Hope you and the Bytown Boys are taking care of Weideman for us :)


I have contemplated whether it makes sense for me to remain a member for some time now for a number of reasons. I live in Ajax which is not too far from TO but definitely not drop-in distance to go to Joe's for away games and I find it hard to make it down to the stadium area early enough to make it to Joe's on gamedays. I know there was a Durham chapter of RPB trying to get stuff together for away game viewing up here from time to time but my other big problem I have with participating in anything is my wife's health. She has a fairly critical and chronic condition that ties up alot of my time with me taking care of her so I can't even make it to a local bar that often. That is also why I can't make it downtown to banner sessions or anything usually because I can't really leave her alone on weeknights and my kids are not old enough to take care of her either. I would love to be more involved and my kids would love to be part of things too. Maybe one day. As far as renewing my membership every year I do it without question for the most part. I don't find it is very much money and if the money helps with a banner or whatever I am good with it since I can't be there. I have not met alot of RPB over the years but the ones I have are great people from all walks of life. My kids were lucky enough to participate in the RPB player escorts a few times and I have brought them for some RPB marches. I find the people running the group seem to be really good people and work really hard to keep things going in a dignified manner and I appreciate that. It brings me pride to be part of the group and I always figure one day I may be able to contribute more. For now I will just chime in on the board and attend things where I can. Alot of registered users on this board really contribute alot of good commentary too. I appreciate everyone that contributes in a positive way....member or non-member. It all enriches my TFC supporter experience. Cheers!

Glad to see you take pride in helping where ever you can with the group. Alot of the Durham boys are great lads. Nice little group always in there best voice when they come to games.

Voodooman
07-02-2015, 11:24 AM
To keep in short without repeating, even though I live 75% of my year out in New Brunswick, I still enjoy just watching from the television and just hearing/seeing what the RPB does to the crowd. I got to meet a lot of friends, and actually have been able to attend some really awesome events throughout the years I never thought I would ever do. From actually singing in a studio (I still can't believe I did that) to having a dinner with Lieweke/Nelsen to playing in a fun indoor league and even playing in a tournament or two with RPB, it has been the other stuff that I have remembered most. It creates a second family environment, and for someone like myself who has no uncles, aunts, grandparents etc., I consider some of the guys to be honourary family aha.

To the person who is in High School, don't worry about your age! I joined when I was in high school, and my brother is in elementary school( well he is graduating from that now) and stays with the RPB often. The age doesn't matter with this group, everyone has a common interest which brings us all together. If you want to talk though and share experiences of being the young guy and going to the bar without being able to drink, it is perfectly fine. It has honestly gotten to the point for me with being in season for half a year, I never got into drinking or anything, and I just order that Iced Tea aha.

I am glad this thread got made as it has brought some great discussion points as well as issues that RPB as a whole could work on to which they never would have thought of without this thread.

T-boy
07-02-2015, 11:38 AM
I did join at one point - 3 years ago - but then I got a new job and it took up much more of my time, and I immediately just didn't have time to get more into the support unfortunately.

I've also always had issues about the different supports groups at TFC (that's why I didn't join at all until 3 years ago). I completely understand why different groups originally formed (Lynx fans in one group, the new TFC fans in the other, one group wanting to support in a different way to the other) - but personally I think its a terrible idea to have these separate factions. One large SG will always have more power than separate groups with the same number of fans. Big groups of people hold weight and power.

Eleven
07-02-2015, 12:30 PM
We do not always see eye to eye with the FO and maintaining complete financial separation allows us to keep our positions clear. We often work together with them, but we don't need or want MLS mandated sponsor activity rammed down our throats, either.
Fair enough. Easier to bypass that headache.

Nodoubtguy
07-02-2015, 12:49 PM
5. Went to Joe's during last season's march to final home Montreal game, found it "clique"ish. Lots of closed groups of people and it was very difficult to " integrate". A lot less welcoming than I have experienced with non-supporter groups congregating at a pub I.E. Oranje supporters at Betty's on King East. Maybe #3 would help.


So I completely understand that feeling. I've had tickets since day one with my Dad. He has zero interest in the supporters aspect of TFC, but I wanted to check it out. I showed up at Joe's in year one by myself for an away game and literally talked to nobody. Sat at the bar, watched the game, had few drinks and went home. Thought this group wasn't for me. Went again and forced myself to be open and initiate conversations and boom......I found where I wanted to be. Then the ball started rolling.....Joe's, games in 112, Thursday night drinks, away games.

This is where it gets difficult. I've now known many of the good people on this board for years and years. My close social circle that I talk to/hang out with on a day to day basis outside of TFC is mainly made up of people I've met through here, and biggest of course is I met my then future wife through this group. While it may seem like "cliques", these are bonds that are now much bigger than TFC.

It a hard thing to do, but be open and start talking to people and they will respond. I know the group can do a better job at opening up to new people but you also need to understand that when we're at Joe's, we are with friends that are almost family now.

JuliquE
07-02-2015, 12:51 PM
I've followed the steps to join, but haven't heard back. Figured it were down to my living abroad, so I remained patient. I've hinted at this once or twice, before, but didn't want to "push it."

Was on the fence for awhile, as I attempted to feel my way around the group, via the forum. I agree that it can feel "clique-ish," at times, when your views are either overlooked or taken apart in a fashion some of the more respected members wouldn't experience (your DP's or "designated posters," if you like lol).. but, if we're all being honest, that mirrors the way things are in life, away from the group. I'd be remiss not to mention the numerous positive experiences/exchanges I've had with members and non-members, alike, most notably with one of the RPB hooking up with me to help in my pursuit of a couple jerseys.

As far as maintaining a welcoming environment: perhaps you can make a special arm-band, patterned after the traditional captain's arm-band, complete with an RPB badge, that would be made available to new members, so they can be easily spotted at social gatherings of any kind. From there, it would just be a matter of communicating to your membership that they should do what they can to especially reach out to anyone wearing these special arm-bands.

Spit-balling, here, but I hope I've helped, in some way.

eustacchio
07-02-2015, 01:08 PM
So I completely understand that feeling. I've had tickets since day one with my Dad. He has zero interest in the supporters aspect of TFC, but I wanted to check it out. I showed up at Joe's in year one by myself for an away game and literally talked to nobody. Sat at the bar, watched the game, had few drinks and went home. Thought this group wasn't for me. Went again and forced myself to be open and initiate conversations and boom......I found where I wanted to be. Then the ball started rolling.....Joe's, games in 112, Thursday night drinks, away games.

This is where it gets difficult. I've now known many of the good people on this board for years and years. My close social circle that I talk to/hang out with on a day to day basis outside of TFC is mainly made up of people I've met through here, and biggest of course is I met my then future wife through this group. While it may seem like "cliques", these are bonds that are now much bigger than TFC.

It a hard thing to do, but be open and start talking to people and they will respond. I know the group can do a better job at opening up to new people but you also need to understand that when we're at Joe's, we are with friends that are almost family now.

I just want to co-sign this (not the future wife part). I went through the same things.

Eleven
07-02-2015, 01:10 PM
Valid point. In spite of this, we have many female members who are strong contributors and the gender-specific name hasn't limited them. I agree it could be seen as something less than inclusive. It would be a tough thing to change the name at this stage, but your point is valid.
Name is awesome and quite appropriate even if one doesn't know its origins. Not looking for it to change, even if this were still Year 1. I'm surprised to not have heard from the strong female contributors. An entire life's worth of experience exposed to bias because of a name has perhaps coloured me too much. Out of curiosity, are there women members who signed up without having male partner/friend who were members too?
As a regular drummer in the stands, I'd love to hear from you on this one!*lol* I meant lots of ideas in general, not specifically about drumming :) My marching band days was just setting the beat, pace of the march, marking out the turns, and twirling the sticks 10 feet into the air while marching. It was eons ago, but I still remember all the beats.

The opinions expressed are those of the posters, not the group (I know, I know). We voiced our strong condemnation of the whole thing. It was absolutely offside and not in line with our values as a group.Understood/appreciated that from the majority even then. I suppose I'd ask for the forum name of a person in order to avoid those very few.

I appreciate you taking the time to give thoughtful feedback. I hope you will continue to participate and don't feel shy about introducing yourself at Joe's or at games. I promise not to "clique" you. Online interaction is great, but this group was built in person.Thank you for your consideration :) It probably won't be at Joe's though. Just found a place with 120 craft brews on tap in Liberty Village I want to try out. ONE. HUNDRED. AND. TWENTY. Mostly Ontario breweries too. Will post link in Beer thread.

Mateo1985
07-02-2015, 01:15 PM
Thank you for your consideration :) It probably won't be at Joe's though. Just found a place with 120 craft brews on tap in Liberty Village I want to try out. ONE. HUNDRED. AND. TWENTY. Mostly Ontario breweries too. Will post link in Beer thread.

I'm sure you've already tried their BEER FLIGHT or whatever they call it. Gives you 4 different beers for $10... not bad at all.

SirBobSaget
07-02-2015, 01:15 PM
I maintain my membership mainly to support the board and the group.

To anyone apprehensive about showing up to Joe's alone, I have done this a few times and was made very welcome by anyone I approached.

pekduck
07-02-2015, 01:24 PM
Always loved the support RPB, U-Sec and NEE showed from inaugural home game. Met them in person, all open and friendly. Officially joined on an away trip in 08 I think by hunting down Phil and Naturegirl. Loved everyone I've met and it's only fair to contribute back to a community of friends like a family. Contributed all I could when I could, then faded away when life threw me a combination of challenges that almost took me out for good. Past experiences and memories (all the crazy away trips. come on.. Puerto Rico and Mexico City for TFC.. what a blast) shaped my view on RPB, what you get out of RPB is how much you put into it. I may be close, I may be far. I may no longer able to come to home matches or always active on the forum or paint a banner, but RPB is family. Now I'm based in Texas, but I'll be a member as long as at least one of us exists.

Kamp Berg
07-02-2015, 01:26 PM
I would like to become a member but my attempts to email have been returned. If anyone can connect me it would be much appreciated.
On another note, it can be quite intimidating on the forums if you are newer to soccer or less knowledgable about the sport. It's just people's opinions but it's never easy to be the new kid on the block.
BTW, I've learned a ton just reading what you all write! Thank you.

FRANKIE65
07-02-2015, 01:32 PM
Thank you for your consideration :) It probably won't be at Joe's though. Just found a place with 120 craft brews on tap in Liberty Village I want to try out. ONE. HUNDRED. AND. TWENTY. Mostly Ontario breweries too. Will post link in Beer thread.


Just did a search on this place...think I'm in love:drinking:

Eleven
07-02-2015, 01:56 PM
i have really bad social anxiety. you can't really tell because i'm normally the guy who never shuts up.. but it took me awhile to get involved in the group because i experienced what you described. i walked into joe's back in 08 and was like.. "yeah, not happening". when i started going to smaller events (banner painting sessions, banner planning stuff, etc), i felt a bit more comfortable, and people were more receptive to a random stranger showing up. some people can pull up to a booth and go "hey! i'm so-and-so. you on the boards at all?", some people can't. i'm extra sensitive to stuff like this, so being in a smaller group of people made dialogue / getting to know people a lot easier. it wasn't a beer or two a half hour before the match in a crowded bar.

i think it's kind've a two way street for me. half of the time i wonder if it'd be weird randomly introducing myself to someone, the other half i'm wondering if they're thinking the same. then again we also have members who're more standoffish, or they're there with their kids, or partners, or whatever. i don't know where i'm going with this. i don't wanna speak for other people and it's 5AM.

either way, if you see someone with a lucha mask at joe's come say hi.

to be completely honest, i'd get my membership for the members section alone. i dig the song / design stuff, but having a say in what the group presents directly (voting banners, scarves, chants, etc) is kinda cool. right now we're in the midst of redesigning match threads based off input from the members. plus chrisfizik has been doing TFC photoblogs for games which are fuckin awesome, on top of the fact that free tickets tend to pop up there pretty often. i'm not telling people to get membership for the chance to get free tickets (it's an awesome bonus), all i can say is one of those tickets already paid for the cost of my membership and i get a whack of content on top of it, not to mention the other perks.
Having made 5 trans-oceanic moves in my life, if there was any social anxiety in me before the first one, it was well and truly gone by my 3rd when I was 16. I initiate conversations with strangers ALL the time anywhere about anything especially when there are visual cues. Having said that, I don't CONTINUE conversations because of verbal or body language cues. And really, that's what I experienced at Joe's when I initiated chats. My translation of those cues was that members, in the flesh, weren't looking to expand membership. It may sound so; however, I'm not griping. I'm writing all this so that, in future, some might choose to consciously project a more welcoming stance to new faces for a few minutes...and then direct them to the signer-uppers.

Had to look up what a Lucha mask was, but I'll approach you the next time I see you...but it probably won't be at Joe's.

I'm more interested in providing choices for decision-making than the actual decision. With enough good choices, the chosen matters less....to me.

As far as free tickets go, I've already given one away to a forum member. No idea if he is an RPB member. We met at the gate for the tix handoff... it was funny. He couldn't find me where I texted I would be. Not a single person other than me (and them 2-3m away) in that spot for 6-7 metres. So I phoned him, saw him go to answer and walked towards them. Reached them as he answered and I said "you're right in front of me, aren't you?" He turned. Hahahaha. It's cause he wasn't expecting to get his free tix from a woman at the game on her own.

Responding to further comments about being the initiator of conversations... I did. I almost always do over a wide range of demographics in various countries, cities, villages, social environments, etc. I have in-person friendships through a coffee forum while I was in the Netherlands and they were spread out in England, France, Vienna, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Finland and one UofT prof in Toronto. When I returned to Canada after a 10 year absence, I gave up corporate $$$ regular paycheck for $8.50/hr coffee job for the love of the thing. That job though... not only did I learn to chat with everyone...it made my day to welcome new people to the neighbourhood and intro them to regulars as well as regulars to each other. Never mind kiddie play dates, I've help set up doggie play dates! Starting up convos is far from my weakest points.

I have good personal hygiene: I don't smell bad. People tell me I have nice teeth: I smile a lot. Strangers randomly tell me I have a nice smile: I'm approachable. I can dabble in 5 languages: I can find ways to communicate.

So, if the onus is on a new person to (want to) obtain membership, how many times would one suggest said person attend the admitted clique"ish" events and what else should (s)he do other than initiate conversations (didnt work for me) in order to find his/her "spot"? Sounds harsh? Perhaps if one were to look at it from a 1st impressions viewpoint, it might encourage more members to consciously foster a more inclusive environment if enticing new membership is an important goal. What if the onus of membership were on the members instead? Kudos to those of you who kept trying! Do you wonder how many didn't...and didn't tell you why?

BuSaPuNk
07-02-2015, 01:58 PM
I would like to become a member but my attempts to email have been returned. If anyone can connect me it would be much appreciated.
On another note, it can be quite intimidating on the forums if you are newer to soccer or less knowledgable about the sport. It's just people's opinions but it's never easy to be the new kid on the block.
BTW, I've learned a ton just reading what you all write! Thank you.


I've followed the steps to join, but haven't heard back. Figured it were down to my living abroad, so I remained patient. I've hinted at this once or twice, before, but didn't want to "push it."

Was on the fence for awhile, as I attempted to feel my way around the group, via the forum. I agree that it can feel "clique-ish," at times, when your views are either overlooked or taken apart in a fashion some of the more respected members wouldn't experience (your DP's or "designated posters," if you like lol).. but, if we're all being honest, that mirrors the way things are in life, away from the group. I'd be remiss not to mention the numerous positive experiences/exchanges I've had with members and non-members, alike, most notably with one of the RPB hooking up with me to help in my pursuit of a couple jerseys.

As far as maintaining a welcoming environment: perhaps you can make a special arm-band, patterned after the traditional captain's arm-band, complete with an RPB badge, that would be made available to new members, so they can be easily spotted at social gatherings of any kind. From there, it would just be a matter of communicating to your membership that they should do what they can to especially reach out to anyone wearing these special arm-bands.

Spit-balling, here, but I hope I've helped, in some way.

PM sent to set you guys up for membership.

If there's anyone else that hasn't got either a response back or is looking to sign up for membership please PM myself, CoachGT, or Miss Jones and we will help you out.

Yohan
07-02-2015, 03:46 PM
Having made 5 trans-oceanic moves in my life, if there was any social anxiety in me before the first one, it was well and truly gone by my 3rd when I was 16. I initiate conversations with strangers ALL the time anywhere about anything especially when there are visual cues. Having said that, I don't CONTINUE conversations because of verbal or body language cues. And really, that's what I experienced at Joe's when I initiated chats. My translation of those cues was that members, in the flesh, weren't looking to expand membership. It may sound so; however, I'm not griping. I'm writing all this so that, in future, some might choose to consciously project a more welcoming stance to new faces for a few minutes...and then direct them to the signer-uppers.

Had to look up what a Lucha mask was, but I'll approach you the next time I see you...but it probably won't be at Joe's.

I'm more interested in providing choices for decision-making than the actual decision. With enough good choices, the chosen matters less....to me.

As far as free tickets go, I've already given one away to a forum member. No idea if he is an RPB member. We met at the gate for the tix handoff... it was funny. He couldn't find me where I texted I would be. Not a single person other than me (and them 2-3m away) in that spot for 6-7 metres. So I phoned him, saw him go to answer and walked towards them. Reached them as he answered and I said "you're right in front of me, aren't you?" He turned. Hahahaha. It's cause he wasn't expecting to get his free tix from a woman at the game on her own.

Responding to further comments about being the initiator of conversations... I did. I almost always do over a wide range of demographics in various countries, cities, villages, social environments, etc. I have in-person friendships through a coffee forum while I was in the Netherlands and they were spread out in England, France, Vienna, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Finland and one UofT prof in Toronto. When I returned to Canada after a 10 year absence, I gave up corporate $$$ regular paycheck for $8.50/hr coffee job for the love of the thing. That job though... not only did I learn to chat with everyone...it made my day to welcome new people to the neighbourhood and intro them to regulars as well as regulars to each other. Never mind kiddie play dates, I've help set up doggie play dates! Starting up convos is far from my weakest points.

I have good personal hygiene: I don't smell bad. People tell me I have nice teeth: I smile a lot. Strangers randomly tell me I have a nice smile: I'm approachable. I can dabble in 5 languages: I can find ways to communicate.

So, if the onus is on a new person to (want to) obtain membership, how many times would one suggest said person attend the admitted clique"ish" events and what else should (s)he do other than initiate conversations (didnt work for me) in order to find his/her "spot"? Sounds harsh? Perhaps if one were to look at it from a 1st impressions viewpoint, it might encourage more members to consciously foster a more inclusive environment if enticing new membership is an important goal. What if the onus of membership were on the members instead? Kudos to those of you who kept trying! Do you wonder how many didn't...and didn't tell you why?

Thanks for your perspective. Some interesting thoughts.

I think a lot of it is a Torontonian thing. We're friendly to others, but we don't tend to invite conversation from strangers. Striking up conversation with strangers tend to be something you do when you don't have anyone else to talk to, and most patrons of Joe's go with friends or family.

It's sometimes hard to tell who is by themselves at Joe's or not. It is easier to find other teams supporters that sometimes visit Joe's and have a convo with them. And I make a point to have a convo with them, because it's a rare chance for me to meet people from other cities.

I live in Kitchener-Waterloo so it's hard for me to get to Joe's, but for anyone looking to talk about TFC and soccer in general, find the Asian guy with an RPB scarf. Or in 112. I'm not very hard to find lol.

MartinUtd
07-02-2015, 03:51 PM
This is how I see that conversation going down if it were me.

"Are you Yohan?"

"Just because I'm Asian and support TFC, you think I'm Yohan?"

It wasn't Yohan.

OgtheDim
07-02-2015, 03:55 PM
....I live in Kitchener-Waterloo so it's hard for me to get to Joe's, but for anyone looking to talk about TFC and soccer in general, find the Asian guy with an RPB scarf. Or in 112. I'm not very hard to find lol.

Guys named Yohan living in KW back when I grew up there were generally comfortable wearing lederhosen at the Schwaben Club - all our worlds have changed for the better. :)

ryan
07-02-2015, 03:59 PM
I'd echo wowza's story for myself. Social anxiety and feeling like the group is a bit cliquey. Now on the inside looking out, it's not.

Rewind two years and I was coming into my 3rd as a SSH, with a pair of seats, often selling the 2nd ticket and coming alone, as my close friends and family just aren't into footie. The ones that would come, would be the drunken dbags we loathe, so I wouldn't want to bring them anyways. So I figured out a way into RPB. Joined up smaller events, last years opening banner painting. Just 10-ish people, easy to suppress the anxiety and get into it. By the time that's over, I now knew 10 members. Showed up early enough for the Seattle game at Joe's, found some I now knew at a table and just took up a seat. Managed to meet those at the table who didn't paint, now know 15 members. Opener rolls around, I follow in those I know and find a place in 112. Met more people around me in the area. And so it went to today, where if I'm not at a game, I get messaged "where the hell are you?" as opposed to the beginning when I was just on the outside thinking it's just clique that I couldn't get in.

You need to find your own foot in the door that fits your comfort zone, it'll snowball from there. There's a place for everyone in RPB, you just need to start somewhere.


Perhaps since there is an impression of a barrier to entry, maybe RPB can organize "new member" nights where we put up a thread, 5ish newbies can sign up at a time, then pre-game some RPB vets take them under their wing at Joes. Integrate and introduce them to everyone around instead of forming our usual social circles. Then drag them into 112 (should they wish) and involve them in the heart of what we do.

Something along these lines may help those who struggle to find it easy to get themselves involved. Like I said, once you get in, you'll be fine. Only problem is, tables only seat so many! :P

GreatWhiteNorth
07-02-2015, 04:04 PM
Personally, I have been attending games since ~2008. It started as an occasional outing, growing from there until taking seasons of my own in 2010. Honestly, I had no real exposure to the game before that. I am not a "sports" guy, it doesn't rule my life. That said, the atmosphere and culture of what Toronto FC represents has grown on me immensely. I have relocated to section 111, and it's great to be "in the middle" of it all, rather than stuck up in section 226. Why am I not a member though, honestly, I don't know what I could contribute. I am typically a quiet guy, fairly reserved. Perhaps it may be my lack of understanding of what it means to be a RPB, or what the expectations are of it's members.

Yohan
07-02-2015, 04:37 PM
Perhaps since there is an impression of a barrier to entry, maybe RPB can organize "new member" nights where we put up a thread, 5ish newbies can sign up at a time, then pre-game some RPB vets take them under their wing at Joes. Integrate and introduce them to everyone around instead of forming our usual social circles. Then drag them into 112 (should they wish) and involve them in the heart of what we do.

Something along these lines may help those who struggle to find it easy to get themselves involved. Like I said, once you get in, you'll be fine. Only problem is, tables only seat so many! :PAway game viewing. Not as busy as game days, and pretty much anyone wearing a TFC kit is probably an RPB in front of the big screen. Introduce yourself and grab a seat!

Yohan
07-02-2015, 04:37 PM
This is how I see that conversation going down if it were me.

"Are you Yohan?"

"Just because I'm Asian and support TFC, you think I'm Yohan?"

It wasn't Yohan.
I'm somewhat notorious :p

MartinUtd
07-02-2015, 04:39 PM
I'm somewhat notorious :p

That much is true. I saw you posting on Vidman's FB wall a while back. The whole KW thing comes full circle. I wonder if I met you in the KW scene back in the early 2000's at some point.

barticusz
07-02-2015, 04:47 PM
I'd absolutely love to join, but I live way out in Edmonton. If I ever make my way back out east I will be looking to join and get season's tickets.

Eleven
07-02-2015, 04:56 PM
You need to find your own foot in the door that fits your comfort zone, it'll snowball from there. There's a place for everyone in RPB, you just need to start somewhere.
Again, that puts the onus on the "newbie" potential. One could reasonably hypothesize that the likelihood of membership sign-up would increase if that was facilitated by the membership the first time, non?

Perhaps since there is an impression of a barrier to entry, maybe RPB can organize "new member" nights where we put up a thread, 5ish newbies can sign up at a time, then pre-game some RPB vets take them under their wing at Joes. Integrate and introduce them to everyone around instead of forming our usual social circles. Then drag them into 112 (should they wish) and involve them in the heart of what we do.

Something along these lines may help those who struggle to find it easy to get themselves involved. Like I said, once you get in, you'll be fine. Only problem is, tables only seat so many! :PNice idea. It could work. I do believe though that all it takes is for the members to keep in the back of their minds that membership growth is a shared activity/responsibility. As I mentioned, just redirect them to someone who will facilitate signing up to intro them into the group culture, events, etc.

Another viewpoint is that some people may show up at Joe's to assess whether or not they even want to join the group. I'm not desperate to join a group. I looked into it because it seems like a fun group and I thought I had something to contribute, support wise, even though I'm still learning the game as far as tactics and analytics go, nor am I a Day 1 supporter. I didn't even know we had a team until the summer after I came back to 416. I was so excited and wanted to go to games...but at the time, going from reg paycheck with benefits to a minimum pay job was a brutally steep lesson in redefining my lifestyle according to the new budget.

With a few responses, I feel as if my posts are somewhat misunderstood. I'm not looking for excuses or reasons. My responses are intended to help the group to find ways to facilitate sign-ups, the FIRST time in future. I'm hoping for solution suggestions/consensus more than anything else...or isn't that the point of the initial question posed by Ivy?

Ivy
07-02-2015, 04:59 PM
Eleven, I can't give you much more advice then people already have; I would suggest trying this: Go to Joe's before a game (2 hours before) grab a beer, and walk around introducing yourself to anybody you see wearing RPB. A lot of people have seen this thread and will now know who you are. When you find somebody you're comfortable with, sit down and have a chat. Ask them to tell you who's who. I haven't met a single person in this group who was awkward or didn't want to shoot the shit when approached. Ever. It might be hard, but give that a try.

Remember, most people are tipsy happy, and nobody is judging you or talking behind your back - it's not that kind of group.

Good luck - hope I meet you soon.

Ivy
07-02-2015, 05:01 PM
Also, if anybody is having the same problem with getting into a "clique" at RPB, PM me, and I'll give you my personal contact info. I'll gladly meet you on game day and hang out with you.

brad
07-02-2015, 05:11 PM
I'll echo the cliquish vibe. I've gone to Joes on a few occasions before games and tried to strike up some conversations. The general vibe I got was people were hanging out with their friends and not really looking to meet new people. No harm in that, but certainly didn't make me want to go back.

Had the same experience at th RPB town hall I went to

Eleven
07-02-2015, 05:18 PM
I think a lot of it is a Torontonian thing. We're friendly to others, but we don't tend to invite conversation from strangers. Striking up conversation with strangers tend to be something you do when you don't have anyone else to talk to, and most patrons of Joe's go with friends or family.

find the Asian guy with an RPB scarf. Or in 112. I'm not very hard to find lol.
So wait, are you recommending NOT initiating a convo then? Wait for a member to approach instead? I had my partner there but not in the conjoined at the hips kind of way. I strike up chats with strangers wherever, whenever even when we're together, and so does my partner. But OK, maybe we were too friendly then.

I'm the (mostly) Asian lady in 120. But sometimes I'm mistaken for Hawaiian... or Peruvian... or some remote place in Spain, or First Nation, or Chinese (by only ONE Chinese prof in China) or Greenland, or Jamaican. :p Depends where my "assessor" comes from. In the Netherlands, I "must be Indonesian". Mostly, Torontonians stamp me as Filipino. I'm not hard to find either :p

Yohan
07-02-2015, 07:24 PM
So wait, are you recommending NOT initiating a convo then? Wait for a member to approach instead? I had my partner there but not in the conjoined at the hips kind of way. I strike up chats with strangers wherever, whenever even when we're together, and so does my partner. But OK, maybe we were too friendly then.
Not at all. Feel free to try to strike up a convo. I personally enjoy talking to others especially about soccer. But recognize that not everyone enjoys talking to strangers and prefer to hang out with their friends and families and respect their privacy.

Jack
07-02-2015, 07:40 PM
I think a lot of us who have been around for a long time might not remember the early days of getting to know each other. I am not shy and I walk up and talk to anyone, but not everyone is like that. Partly, Joe's has become so popular as a pre-game/post-game that I often would think it's just fans there for a drink. I guess we should try to seek out those looking for RPB connections. There are many of us who have known each other for a long time and we do tend to hang with groups of RPB friends when we are out (although I do always make a point of trying to say hi to as many people as I can--probably leftover President habits or something. g:D). Anyway, I will try to be more welcoming to people at Joe's. This discussion is good to remind us that there are new people who want to get involved and perhaps feel like the vibe isn't so welcoming.

With that said, I invite anyone who wants to get into RPB to find me g:D. I love meeting people and putting a face to message board names and I love seeing new people looking to get into TFC. I admit that I sometimes wonder where the new blood is, but it sounds like it's out there and we need to recapture some of the magic of the early years when we were getting to know each other.

Eleven
07-02-2015, 07:54 PM
Not at all. Feel free to try to strike up a convo. I personally enjoy talking to others especially about soccer. But recognize that not everyone enjoys talking to strangers and prefer to hang out with their friends and families and respect their privacy.
Hence my not continuing conversations and/or starting with some because of verbal/visual cues.

Anyway, it's not about me anymore. It's about the perception and how much or how easily this group wants to expand its membership and the steps its members are willing to take to achieve it.

I understand a lot of relationships have been nurtured through the years and some members have had to come knocking numerous times to find where they can fit. I'm talking about those who'll only go once to determine fit.

My perception from the responses now is, newbie must keep trying until accepted. The one-timers, oh well.

My suggestion for growth... determine the process & circumstances under which a prospective member can go check out your group, where someone is available for intros and Q&A...whether at Joe's or events, and then post it in the Join Us Membership area. Again, this is not about me or any specific individual. This is about if/how the group moves forward on this topic.

Ivy
07-02-2015, 08:13 PM
Eleven, I may be mistaken, but I'm sensing a bit of anger? In your posts.
It seems like there are a lot of people that are trying to give you advice, but you keep letting it bounce off of you. If you had a bad experience with RPB, I'm sorry. However, if you truly want to be part of the group, you have to put in the effort, and realize the history that some of the guys and girls have.

Unfortunately, it's not realistic for somebody to stand at the door, and spark a conversation with every single person that comes in. Especially if they don't make it known that they're new and want to talk.

BuSaPuNk
07-02-2015, 08:18 PM
Unfortunately, it's not realistic for somebody to stand at the door, and spark a conversation with every single person that comes in. Especially if they don't make it known that they're new and want to talk.

Isn't that Joe's job? Hahaha :hump:

brad
07-02-2015, 08:27 PM
^^what you are missing is the vibe is generally one of people wanting to hang out with their friends and not really welcoming to new people. Now, that is not a critique. Totally cool and understandable to want hang out with your friends on game day and not be bothered with playing welcoming committee. However, in the context of expanding membership and being an open group it is relevant.

I'm a social butterfly and can talk to anyone. I'd probably be a regular had I had better experience's years back when I made the effort. Again - not a complaint, but a comment. Take it for what it's worth.

MartinUtd
07-02-2015, 08:40 PM
I think some people are expecting the Water Buffalo Club from the Flintstones where everyone is easily identified and comradery runs throughout. You're simply not going to get that from a supporters group of a 7 year old football club in a 20 year old league that don't even sit together in the stadium. Joe's is a very informal atmosphere, but it's still not an 'internet meet' every week. It's just people with similar interests having a pint an hour before the game.

Red4ever
07-02-2015, 09:25 PM
I think some people are expecting the Water Buffalo Club from the Flintstones where everyone is easily identified and comradery runs throughout. You're simply not going to get that from a supporters group of a 7 year old football club in a 20 year old league that don't even sit together in the stadium. Joe's is a very informal atmosphere, but it's still not an 'internet meet' every week. It's just people with similar interests having a pint an hour before the game.

I think this is it perfectly.

When I joined up I found RPB to be the most accessible group and I still believe they are. But I grade accessibility as a person at the bar I can ask about issues or someone online I can message. I'm not really sure why people expect a welcoming committee.

I go to games with my group of friends and talk to a few other RPB on occasion. A lot of us get along, a lot of us don't talk. I pay my dues because I believe in the idea of a the RPB and because I think the leadership does a great job on behalf of the fans and the members. I also pay dues because I think the direction of the RPB is the closest to what I want the image of our supporters to be. I see it almost like a vote. Granted, there are some in the group with whom I have nothing in common other than TFC and I wouldn't base my experience in the group on my conversations with one or two people. That just seems odd.

justin
07-02-2015, 09:35 PM
I think a lot of us who have been around for a long time might not remember the early days of getting to know each other. I am not shy and I walk up and talk to anyone, but not everyone is like that. Partly, Joe's has become so popular as a pre-game/post-game that I often would think it's just fans there for a drink. I guess we should try to seek out those looking for RPB connections. There are many of us who have known each other for a long time and we do tend to hang with groups of RPB friends when we are out (although I do always make a point of trying to say hi to as many people as I can--probably leftover President habits or something. g:D). Anyway, I will try to be more welcoming to people at Joe's. This discussion is good to remind us that there are new people who want to get involved and perhaps feel like the vibe isn't so welcoming.

With that said, I invite anyone who wants to get into RPB to find me g:D. I love meeting people and putting a face to message board names and I love seeing new people looking to get into TFC. I admit that I sometimes wonder where the new blood is, but it sounds like it's out there and we need to recapture some of the magic of the early years when we were getting to know each other.

Those first few seasons were fantastic, when you knew everybody at Joe's and we were a huge, rowdy family. Even Joe himself (assuming he still owns the joint?) coming with us on a road trip to NY (anyone else remember playing in that early morning supporters tournament at old Giants stadium hung right over?) was legendary. Great times.

Eleven
07-02-2015, 09:42 PM
Eleven, I may be mistaken, but I'm sensing a bit of anger? In your posts.
It seems like there are a lot of people that are trying to give you advice, but you keep letting it bounce off of you. If you had a bad experience with RPB, I'm sorry. However, if you truly want to be part of the group, you have to put in the effort, and realize the history that some of the guys and girls have.

Unfortunately, it's not realistic for somebody to stand at the door, and spark a conversation with every single person that comes in. Especially if they don't make it known that they're new and want to talk.
Either your Spidey senses are off or I have seriously failed articulating the intentions of my posts. Rather than "advice" bouncing off me, it's that I've already done what I'm being advised to do. Which is why I keep reiterating it's no longer about me. It's about you, the members. So, no, not angry. Just trying to provide useful feedback on your initial question so that it can be used to determine how to improvise membership numbers.

I dunno, maybe some of my posts got missed. I agree that it's unreasonable for one person to stand at the door, essentially as a greeter. That's why I suggested it is a "responsibility" shared amongst the members of just being aware and them directing the person to whoever is signing up newbies that day.

I also commented that if no one is willing to do so, then oh well for the one-timers. If that's how the group/individuals would like to keep, then so be it...just keep in mind that perhaps that's why registered users aren't members. Your group, your culture. However you choose to run it, doesn't bother me. It just helps me decide whether it's a group for me to join or not. :) <-- to convey no anger, just how it is.

I was only trying to be helpful if indeed the group's intention was to increase membership. I don't know how else to articulate this.

I'll finish off with: I appreciate this forum and all that I learn from it. And thank you to all who volunteer their time to admin & mod & compiling daily news links & contribute so much valuable content.

Eleven
07-02-2015, 09:45 PM
^^what you are missing is the vibe is generally one of people wanting to hang out with their friends and not really welcoming to new people. Now, that is not a critique. Totally cool and understandable to want hang out with your friends on game day and not be bothered with playing welcoming committee. However, in the context of expanding membership and being an open group it is relevant.

I'm a social butterfly and can talk to anyone. I'd probably be a regular had I had better experience's years back when I made the effort. Again - not a complaint, but a comment. Take it for what it's worth.
I need to learn to be as succinct as you :)

SirBobSaget
07-02-2015, 11:55 PM
Would it be possible to hold a table (maybe along the North wall) where a few senior members hang out with some open seats for newbies to gravitate towards?

It is uncomfortable to get out to Joe's and hope to see familiar faces or make an effort to reach out to new people. Myself I know a few from a road trip to Mtl and from introducing myself to Coach/Loyal from the membership team. But when I don't recognize anyone I mostly just hang out on my phone.

So if there was a table or even the chairs along the pool table that was the go-to spot for new people that would make things easier.

Especially pre-game is difficult because Joe's is frantic and everyone is getting food/drinks and their hellos in with old friends before marching out.

Ivy
07-03-2015, 12:56 AM
The north tables at the bar side of Joe's are where most of the execs and team leaders sit in anyway... Always a good place to start a conversation.

portu
07-03-2015, 01:29 AM
To the person who is in High School, don't worry about your age! I joined when I was in high school, and my brother is in elementary school( well he is graduating from that now) and stays with the RPB often. The age doesn't matter with this group, everyone has a common interest which brings us all together. If you want to talk though and share experiences of being the young guy and going to the bar without being able to drink, it is perfectly fine. It has honestly gotten to the point for me with being in season for half a year, I never got into drinking or anything, and I just order that Iced Tea aha.
Thanks for the advice and sharing ur experience man! The main problem is more the location than anything else as I live all the way up in Barrie, this is my first year with season tickets and I already have to drag my dad to games because driving to
the games is such a pain, tho when we do get there he doesn't complain so much with Giovinco and all aha, anyways it's the Barrie thing that's preventing me. After reading everything tho I think I'm going to get a membership as I LOVE these boards and the things everyone in the southend does. There needs to be more accessible info on what it is to be a member of RPB on these boards (maybe a link at the top of the page at all times?) anyways I'll be getting membership soon!
edit: after some searching I just realized that there is a red patch boys site separate from the forums with a big membership tab on the front page, I had literally no clue

James17930
07-03-2015, 05:08 AM
I have a not very helpful reason for you:

I moved to Asia near the end of the first season and, well, I'm still there. Not the best locale to make the most of an RPB membership.

Fort York Redcoat
07-03-2015, 06:42 AM
Well I'll point out that if there are one-timers that haven't tried again but spoken up in here - We've forwarded info to membership.

If there are one-timers that haven't piped up in here but want to hang out and talk about membership or anything else group, team, footy related or random as Ivy said above we're on that North side of Joe's on busy gameday.

Annnnnnd...

Like another said away games at Joes is ideal to get to know some members that can't miss a match or an opportunity to raise a pint with like minded peeps.

I try to always say if I'm making it down to Joe's for games to let anybody know. Anyone can do the same in-thread or by PM.

Sweeper
07-03-2015, 08:32 AM
Too lazy to do 'member'ish stuff...I'll leave that to better people.

Here for the discussions and insight.


What he said

TFC Tifoso
07-03-2015, 09:43 AM
former member of another SG, but unfortunately can't commit to one anymore as too much time is taken up by "real life" now......about all I can offer now is to drum on game day.......

I come to this board because as mentioned, there seems to be the most TFC talk here and I like to discuss stuff like tactics & team set-up with fellow supporters.....

Red4ever
07-03-2015, 10:00 AM
If there are one-timers that haven't piped up in here but want to hang out and talk about membership...

File photo of Pete showing the newbies around.

http://i.imgur.com/t0tlSxQ.jpg (http://imgur.com/t0tlSxQ)

Fort York Redcoat
07-03-2015, 10:24 AM
File photo of Pete showing the newbies around.

http://i.imgur.com/t0tlSxQ.jpg (http://imgur.com/t0tlSxQ)


And yes I'll be there for 10ish tmr evening. Maybe wearing a rose, maybe a shirt. Both very big maybes.

Cashcleaner
07-03-2015, 04:43 PM
I want to thank everyone for their feedback here and just let you all know that the executive and moderators are discussing these issues amongst ourselves. Also, keep the suggestions and critiques coming because this is the sort of information we need to help improve the group! Eleven's posts about obstacles for new members are especially noteworthy and we're already brainstorming some solutions to the problem.

To be honest, I can think of more than a few people who really wanted to be members but were put off due to the various obstacles that sprung-up in the process. They had the money and the enthusiasm, but for one reason or another they couldn't find anyone to take their cash and sign them up, or were discouraged after talking to established members who may not have been as welcoming as they probably should have been. And that's on us. More often than not it's a systematic break-down and not the fault of any individual, but the group accepts that it's an issue we need to work on.

Everyone who wants to be a member and fulfills the requirements should never leave Joe's frustrated and annoyed because they weren't served properly. Again, I want everyone to know that this discussion and the feedback is something we appreciate and will use the information you're all giving us.

Yohan
07-04-2015, 09:19 AM
There will be at least couple of RPBs at Joe's tonight for LA game at 1030. feel free to drop by and say hello

Abou Sky
07-04-2015, 02:20 PM
Hence my not continuing conversations and/or starting with some because of verbal/visual cues.

Anyway, it's not about me anymore. It's about the perception and how much or how easily this group wants to expand its membership and the steps its members are willing to take to achieve it.

I understand a lot of relationships have been nurtured through the years and some members have had to come knocking numerous times to find where they can fit. I'm talking about those who'll only go once to determine fit.

My perception from the responses now is, newbie must keep trying until accepted. The one-timers, oh well.

My suggestion for growth... determine the process & circumstances under which a prospective member can go check out your group, where someone is available for intros and Q&A...whether at Joe's or events, and then post it in the Join Us Membership area. Again, this is not about me or any specific individual. This is about if/how the group moves forward on this topic.

That is a load of BS, I joined the forum after a trip to Montreal, joined membership a couple of months later and everyone was VERY welcoming.

I still can't put 60% of board names to faces, but it is a really great bunch of people.

Remember, lots of people are also shy to say the first 'hi' so you can do it too.

It's not like RPB is some tough rough Ultras group, we are a bunch of soccer nerds.

Alonso
07-04-2015, 08:32 PM
I've mentioned it before and will say so once more.

Organizing the RPB, and encouraging growth through chapters seems to me to be a much better method.

I understand those that say it should be "organic" but if the group wants to actively recruit and grow then leaving it to chance and circumstance doesn't make much sense.

Organizing in person through Joe's can only work until a critical mass is reached.

The pub can only hold so many people and one person can only be involved with so many people at one time.

From my personal experience I tried to join and fit in to RPB on my own the first time back in 2008/2009 but during that period of time there were too many of us and things were booming.

I gave up.

Then I realized that there was a KW Chapter of RPB that had organised themselves. I tried joining RPB through them and it stuck. The main reason being that 30 people are easier to relate to then 200+.

RPB Chapter development shouldn't be left to grow organically. It should be mandated and grown intentionally through the group in my opinion.

Barrie, Windsor, London, KW, St Catherines, Hamilton, Oshawa, Guelph, Milton, Alberta, BC, USA, etc.... all have RPB members and many more untapped TFC fans.

Being a part of a local group that supports TFC under the RPB banner should be the objective IMO.

It can't be done out of Joe's if growth is the objective.

Please PM me if you care to chat about it as I have put a lot of thought into it and don't want to leave a ten page post here about it.

EDIT: I should also mention that Toronto itself should have borough chapters: Parkdale, Liberty, North York.. .etc.

It doesn't have to be rigid, people can join this way or not. But it's an avenue that is "people first" and untapped/untried. Use the few Barrie RPB members that we have to grow a chapter in Barrie. What do we have to lose?

Carter
07-04-2015, 09:54 PM
Thanks for the advice and sharing ur experience man! The main problem is more the location than anything else as I live all the way up in Barrie, this is my first year with season tickets and I already have to drag my dad to games because driving to
the games is such a pain, tho when we do get there he doesn't complain so much with Giovinco and all aha, anyways it's the Barrie thing that's preventing me. After reading everything tho I think I'm going to get a membership as I LOVE these boards and the things everyone in the southend does. There needs to be more accessible info on what it is to be a member of RPB on these boards (maybe a link at the top of the page at all times?) anyways I'll be getting membership soon!
edit: after some searching I just realized that there is a red patch boys site separate from the forums with a big membership tab on the front page, I had literally no clue


Im in Barrie, sure I don't get out to Joes nearly as much as I did back in 08/09/10, but we still come down from time to time. :). It's never about the bar, it's about the relationships you make within the group when you do get out.

We we could try meeting up here in Barrie for away games. It's a stretch but if we start something people may come.

Cujo
07-06-2015, 02:53 PM
former member of another SG, but unfortunately can't commit to one anymore as too much time is taken up by "real life" now......about all I can offer now is to drum on game day.......

I come to this board because as mentioned, there seems to be the most TFC talk here and I like to discuss stuff like tactics & team set-up with fellow supporters.....

This pretty much sums me up as well (save for the drum part).

Mateo1985
07-06-2015, 03:01 PM
Hope to see a lot of new faces at Joe's this Sunday!!!

portu
07-06-2015, 03:08 PM
Im in Barrie, sure I don't get out to Joes nearly as much as I did back in 08/09/10, but we still come down from time to time. :). It's never about the bar, it's about the relationships you make within the group when you do get out.

We we could try meeting up here in Barrie for away games. It's a stretch but if we start something people may come.
I just can't imagine a place where the game would be shown and I'm not really one to impose my will upon a bar to change the channel, but I'm up for it

phonzo
07-06-2015, 04:13 PM
I've mentioned it before and will say so once more.

Organizing the RPB, and encouraging growth through chapters seems to me to be a much better method.

I understand those that say it should be "organic" but if the group wants to actively recruit and grow then leaving it to chance and circumstance doesn't make much sense.

Organizing in person through Joe's can only work until a critical mass is reached.

The pub can only hold so many people and one person can only be involved with so many people at one time.

From my personal experience I tried to join and fit in to RPB on my own the first time back in 2008/2009 but during that period of time there were too many of us and things were booming.

I gave up.

Then I realized that there was a KW Chapter of RPB that had organised themselves. I tried joining RPB through them and it stuck. The main reason being that 30 people are easier to relate to then 200+.

RPB Chapter development shouldn't be left to grow organically. It should be mandated and grown intentionally through the group in my opinion.

Barrie, Windsor, London, KW, St Catherines, Hamilton, Oshawa, Guelph, Milton, Alberta, BC, USA, etc.... all have RPB members and many more untapped TFC fans.

Being a part of a local group that supports TFC under the RPB banner should be the objective IMO.

It can't be done out of Joe's if growth is the objective.

Please PM me if you care to chat about it as I have put a lot of thought into it and don't want to leave a ten page post here about it.

EDIT: I should also mention that Toronto itself should have borough chapters: Parkdale, Liberty, North York.. .etc.

It doesn't have to be rigid, people can join this way or not. But it's an avenue that is "people first" and untapped/untried. Use the few Barrie RPB members that we have to grow a chapter in Barrie. What do we have to lose?

I just wanted to touch on chapters a little bit as usually the "organic" sentiment comes from the execs. The reason we don't mandate joining through a "chapter" is that chapters in and of themselves take quite a bit of work to organize and maintain and keep folks apprised of whats going on. If someone came up and said I'd like to start the Niagara region chapter and wants to run with it then we'd work with it and see how we get best support the "growth" of that chapter. So as long as there are willing bodies to step up and make it happen it'll be supported but we don't actively have the volunteers and the manpower to start also running chapters directly. It's also very difficult to run a chapter from a region we are not necessairly from; while I grew up in Niagara and went to school in Peterborough I couldn't start running those chapters because my activity in those communities is limited.

Hope that adds a bit of clarity to why the statement is usually - "we'll let it grow organically" and what is meant by it.

phonzo
07-06-2015, 04:13 PM
I just can't imagine a place where the game would be shown and I'm not really one to impose my will upon a bar to change the channel, but I'm up for it

Watch it at Carters house - I hear he knows how to run a bbq or two :P

Dave67
07-06-2015, 08:07 PM
Was active on here as Skint for the first 5 seasons, away games, banners, Joe's etc.. Season 5 was just a shit show for me, too much bitching and mud slinging amongst members online. The club still gouging people for season 6 tickets and the crappy online situation pushed me to the sidelines for TFC forums and tickets. Still get out to games as often as I can but RPB wise I'll stick to lurking now and then.

tfcleeds
07-06-2015, 08:51 PM
Interesting thread. I was a RPB member from 2008 to around 2012ish. Decided not to renew my membership in 2013 for a number of reasons (as several others have alluded to, there just seemed to be a lot bickering between SGs back around then which put me off, too much politics, etc.) Not only that though, I just found myself going to fewer games for awhile, so my attitude was what is the point in being a member if I wasn't involved? I am currently not a member of any supporters group (although I guess I would consider myself most closely affiliated with Inebriatti as most of my closest footy friends are in that group). However I still hang out at Joe's on gameday, and I do count as friends/acquaintances people from across all supporters groups.

I certainly don't regret my time as a RPB member - I really do think, especially early on, it was the most inclusive/welcoming of the supporters groups. I'd single certain people out for special praise as being especially welcoming back in those early days, but there were so many, it wouldn't be fair to do so. I can honestly say that most of the friendships I've developed while living in this city, have been made through RPB in one way or another, and that's pretty awesome.

I am currently content with my non-member of SG status, but it is really cool to see more collaboration between the groups on certain projects, and seeing some of those barriers that perhaps hindered progress coming down. It's a shame there perhaps wasn't more understanding between the groups earlier on, but there's no point in dwelling on the past. The future is bright for TFC, and I believe the various groups can continue to be the biggest part of why gamedays at BMO are so amazing.

Frings22
07-07-2015, 11:32 AM
Hmm reading this thread made me decide to finally join the rpb, emailed membership@redpatchboys.ca and I got a notification that the email didn't go through, could someone from the membership team please PM me so I can just copy+paste the email that I wrote?

Mateo1985
07-07-2015, 01:02 PM
Hmm reading this thread made me decide to finally join the rpb, emailed membership@redpatchboys.ca and I got a notification that the email didn't go through, could someone from the membership team please PM me so I can just copy+paste the email that I wrote?

Busa or CoachGT will take care of you:scarf:

Fort York Redcoat
07-07-2015, 01:07 PM
Hmm reading this thread made me decide to finally join the rpb, emailed membership@redpatchboys.ca and I got a notification that the email didn't go through, could someone from the membership team please PM me so I can just copy+paste the email that I wrote?

I've forwarded your post on to membership Frings22.

Nice to see around again.

Ivy
07-07-2015, 01:07 PM
Busa is not membership.
PM CoachGT though, he'll help you.

Danubio
07-07-2015, 01:29 PM
Only moved to Canada/Toronto in June last year, got a ST this season cos I'm a football fiend, and seem to care about TFC than most/any people i know (which isn't saying much for them). Already go to a supporters group for my 'original' team in Toronto, but that's just beers on a Saturday morning, so don't know if you'll even accept me lol

Wouldn't mind getting involved in future cos i need people to actually talk football/tfc with. Went down Joe's for the first time for the DC game, but with a mate from out of town so didn't really get involved

edit: just noticed my join date to this forum was before i even moved over :D i was putting in work overseas streaming games

Frings22
07-07-2015, 02:05 PM
Busa is not membership.
PM CoachGT though, he'll help you.

Thanks for your help guys!

CoachGT
07-08-2015, 10:46 AM
There seems to be an issue with the membership email address. We are working on it.

Bristolred
07-08-2015, 08:04 PM
Ahhh, I came here to say I tried to email you guys about joining, and I got an error back. If there's some way someone can contact me via this, then if someone can that would be great, if not I'll keep an eye out to when the email address is working again.

I'm usually at Joe's before every game, and I go solo, so would be cool to join up and make some friends. :)

Alonso
07-24-2015, 04:50 PM
Only moved to Canada/Toronto in June last year, got a ST this season cos I'm a football fiend, and seem to care about TFC than most/any people i know (which isn't saying much for them). Already go to a supporters group for my 'original' team in Toronto, but that's just beers on a Saturday morning, so don't know if you'll even accept me lol

Wouldn't mind getting involved in future cos i need people to actually talk football/tfc with. Went down Joe's for the first time for the DC game, but with a mate from out of town so didn't really get involved

edit: just noticed my join date to this forum was before i even moved over :D i was putting in work overseas streaming games


Ahhh, I came here to say I tried to email you guys about joining, and I got an error back. If there's some way someone can contact me via this, then if someone can that would be great, if not I'll keep an eye out to when the email address is working again.

I'm usually at Joe's before every game, and I go solo, so would be cool to join up and make some friends. :)



Have you guys been contacted?

I noticed that your membership logo isn't active yet.... if not please PM CoachGT and he'll help you out.

Bristolred
08-04-2015, 03:07 PM
Yeah, not been contacted as of yet. I'll drop a PM to CoachGT. Thanks buddy.

Pinkie
08-06-2015, 07:34 AM
'member' since season one. now i'm a registered user out of sheer laziness because haven't paid my membership dues yet.

CoachGT
08-06-2015, 03:17 PM
Yeah, not been contacted as of yet. I'll drop a PM to CoachGT. Thanks buddy.
Several messages exchanged. Missed each other last night at Joes. Will phone.