Dear Orlando City Front Office, We (the Ruckus) would like to express our continued commitment to the support of Orlando City. As stated in our own code of conduct, we continue our commitment to the supporting the team in the best way possible. The Ruckus’ purpose is now, and has always been, to support our Lions on the pitch in a non-threatening, non-violent manner. We will continue to do so. As the first officially recognized Supporters Group, we are trying to determine what is considered acceptable language and behavior during OCSC matches. Unfortunately, the OCSC Front Office (FO) has continued to be vague with guidelines, frequently contradicting guidelines issued the week before. At every opportunity, as a group, we have attempted to comply with this ever changing situation including tailgating, dress, flag size, chant leader stands, leaning on fences, and language. All of us wish to commit to supporting City on the pitch. This is why we have followed and complied with the constantly changing guidelines this year. However, the severity of penalties issued by the Front Office toward these constantly changing rules means that clarity is a must. Our members should know what counts as a violation and what is risked by violating such rules. We are formally asking the FO to work with us toward the creation of a written and specific code of conduct. We ask for specifics because vague guidelines, rather than known rules, leave too much room for misunderstandings and are subject to interpretation. Thus negating our ability to protect ourselves. Additionally, organizing the efforts of supporter actions takes time and is difficult. Without clear rules, we can not police ourselves. We, as a group, have decided that until FO clarifies rules, instead of ever shifting guidelines, the Ruckus will not be participating in actions that have become synonymous with the South End at Lions’ matches. We will not have a march in, nor will we provide any tifo displays or drums. We will, at our own discretion, chant. The severity of penalties and the ever shifting guidelines have become too much of a risk for us. We are not happy about this action. We are, after all, supporters. We do not want the focus to be on us. We want it on the team. We sincerely hope that the OCSC front office understands our position and will work with us so we can bring the cheers, noise, and passion that mean so much to the City and the team. We want to be the best and loudest fans in soccer both now and next year in MLS. Very Respectfully, The Ruckus.
Posted on: Sat, 02 Aug 2014 22:06:02 +0000