I was on the train to Birmingham earlier today, and as the train passed through a bunch of towns just outside London, the carriage filled up with football fans. Specifically fans of the Wolverhampton Wolves, who were on their way to the FA Cup Quarter Final happening later that day.
It was like being dropped into another world. They talked enthusiastically about player transfers, manager performance, and budget constraints. They debated the pros and cons of their team’s current strategy; offering ideas for how it could be better. They compared themselves to other teams, and tried to figure out why some teams were succeeding and others failing. They chatted with friends and strangers alike with openness and a hopeful energy for the game ahead.
Once we pulled into Birmingham, the fans peeled off in one direction, and I in another. But for a brief moment on that train, I got a fascinating glimpse into the world of a Wolves fan, and I get why people return week after week, year after year, to support their club.