East Wake Times

While the North Carolina Courage competed at CPKC Stadium against the Kansas City Current in the NWSL Playoffs, supporters gathered nearly 1,000 miles away at the Downtown Raleigh Carolina Ale House on Glenwood Avenue to show their support.

Around 200 fans filled the third-story bar to connect with fellow enthusiasts, participate in giveaways, meet Roary, and enjoy food and drinks while cheering for the Courage in the quarterfinals.

Scott Bynum, a new season ticket holder in 2024 who became a fan after attending his first game in 2023, was among the first to arrive at the watch party. "I knew flights to Kansas City were a little too expensive, so I figured this was the next best thing. I wanted to support the team as much as I possibly could," Bynum said.

Bynum emphasized that one of the best reasons to attend such events is the community surrounding the team. "The Courage have built a great community of people who just love the Courage and love soccer in the area. It is a great thing that they have built," he added.

Fans traveled from various locations for this event, including Katherine and Olivia McKinney, a mother-daughter duo who drove over an hour to join other fans. They are regular attendees at team watch parties. "We like coming out and hanging out with other Courage fans; just being able to watch together is really nice," Katherine said.

Olivia brings a sign to every game but struggles to pick a favorite player, instead saying she favors "the whole team."

Big saves and close chances were met with cheers from fans, while Manaka Matsukubo’s disallowed goal led to boos and jeers. "I do wish that one goal counted," Olivia commented at halftime, reflecting the sentiment shared by many fans.

With both a sold-out regular season finale and an enthusiastic turnout for this playoff watch party, excitement continues to grow among supporters as they look toward next season.