I have not even finished the full match report yet, but after reading comments from fellow supporters while putting my notes together, I felt compelled to say something before continuing.

Honestly, I am disappointed that I even have to write this.

A supporter publicly called out abusive language directed toward the players during today’s match. I did not personally hear what was said while watching the stream, and I do not know the full context, but clearly it was serious enough that somebody felt the need to speak up about it afterward.

That should concern all of us.

One of the beautiful things about supporting SFIDA Setagaya is how human this club feels. These players are not detached celebrities hidden away from normal life. Many of them work ordinary jobs alongside football. Today was Tomod’s Match because several SFIDA players literally work there. Others spend their weeks balancing football with work, responsibilities and everyday life across Tokyo before still giving everything they have for this club at the weekend.

They do not owe us that.

They choose to do it because they love football, because they care about the club and because they want to represent SFIDA Setagaya with pride.

Supporters are entitled to opinions. Football creates frustration sometimes. Criticism and discussion are part of the sport. But there is a huge difference between discussing football and becoming personally abusive toward players who are out there sacrificing their free time and energy to entertain people.

Please remember that these players are human beings first.

They have emotions. They have pressures. They have mental health. They hear things.

And honestly, football feels much better when people are simply kinder to one another.

Support the club passionately. Debate performances. Celebrate wins. Suffer through draws together. But please remember there are real people behind the shirts, and real people standing beside you in the crowd too.

Be nice to one another.

SFIDA Setagaya deserves that kind of atmosphere.

One response to “A Few Words About Support”

  1. […] Before finishing, one final point. While putting this report together, I came across a post on X from a fellow supporter regarding abusive language directed towards SFIDA players during the match. I did not hear it myself while watching the stream and do not know the full context, but if somebody felt strongly enough to raise the issue publicly, it is worth all of us reflecting on. These players are not distant celebrities. Many balance football with full-time jobs and everyday responsibilities before giving everything they have for this club each weekend. Supporters are entitled to opinions, frustrations and debate, but personal abuse helps nobody. Please remember there are real people behind these shirts. Support passionately, disagree respectfully, and above all, be kind to one another. SFIDA Setagaya deserves that kind of atmosphere. Full statement. […]

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