Fan Group 'Gentle Hooligans' of Sweden Advocate for Positive Atmosphere during Women's Euro Championships
In the heart of the ongoing Women's Euros in Switzerland, the Soft Hooligans, a unique and vibrant fan group, are making their mark on the tournament. Founded in 2017 by Estrid Kjellman and her mother Kajsa Aronsson during the Women's Euros in the Netherlands, the Soft Hooligans aim to rewrite the rules of fan culture by promoting hospitality, inclusivity, and spirited support[1].
Unlike traditional football hooligan culture often associated with aggression, the Soft Hooligans strive to create an atmosphere focused on positivity and camaraderie. They have gained recognition for their distinctive blend of enthusiasm and respect, providing passionate backing for the Swedish women's team while maintaining a welcoming and inclusive environment[2][3][4].
The Soft Hooligans' banner in the stands reads "41 Years Since Last Time" and "Bringing the Gold Home", referring to Sweden's triumph at the inaugural Women's Euros in 1984. The group is hopeful for a Swedish victory this year, and their optimism is shared by many Swedes, as Kjellman notes that there are more attendees at the Women's Euros this year[6].
Sweden's impressive performance in the tournament is evident. After completing a perfect group stage campaign with a 4-1 win over Germany, they have advanced to the quarter-finals and will stay in Zurich to face the reigning champions, England[5]. The team's coach, Peter Gerhardsson, has expressed his appreciation for the support received from the Soft Hooligans during the games.
The Soft Hooligans prioritize inclusivity and have an LGBTQ-friendly nature, as emphasized by Kjellman. Families and children are common in the stands at Soft Hooligans events, adding to the group's welcoming and positive atmosphere[3].
However, Kjellman laments the ever-present political aspect of women's football and mentions that the Soft Hooligans receive mocking comments about their name. Despite this, the group continues to welcome the change in atmosphere and support for women's football[7].
Kjellman also expresses that women's football is still very marginalized, even in Sweden. She notes that in other parts of the world, girls don't have the opportunity to play football at all. However, the Soft Hooligans are optimistic about younger generations, citing the acceptance of women's football and children having players like Aitana Bonmati as their role models[8].
The Soft Hooligans started as a Facebook group to spread their message and have since evolved into a significant force in Swedish football fandom. Their innovative fan culture coincides with the broader rise of hospitality and cooler tempers noted in women's football fandom, contrasting with some of the harsher aspects associated with men's football supporters[2].
As the Women's Euros continue, the Soft Hooligans will undoubtedly continue to be a positive and vibrant presence, embodying the spirit of inclusivity and support that the tournament represents.
The Soft Hooligans, with their unique blend of sports-analysis and enthusiasm, continue to support the Swedish women's football team during the ongoing Women's Euros in Switzerland, targeting an atmosphere of positivity and inclusivity. Their banners in the stands, reading "41 Years Since Last Time" and "Bringing the Gold Home", showcase their hope for a Swedish victory this year, echoing the optimism of many Swedes.
