about us
About Us
Grassroots and Independent Supporters
Roots in the Community: Building on a Local Legacy
Founding of the Fanatics
The Fanatics didn’t wait for the official announcement of Vancouver Football Club (VFC) as a Canadian Premier League (CPL) side. Their preemptive planning was a clear sign of the community’s desire to immediately inject a vibrant, unified supporter culture into the new club.
This wasn’t a grassroots start from zero. The Fanatics’ identity is a direct result of two decades of established supporter culture across the Lower Mainland. Drawing on the rich, eclectic traditions of past and present Vancouver supporter groups, they aimed to forge a new voice unique to the Valley.
In the months before VFC’s launch, prospective members met virtually and in local pubs, actively plotting the group’s structure and signature sound. These early meetings—often held around Canadian Men’s National Team matches or with club stewards—they defined their ethos of inclusion and intensity. The Fanatics officially launched on the same day as VFC, Wednesday, November 10, 2022. From that day, planning intensified for a spectacular debut in the club’s 2023 inaugural season.
If you wanna learn more about the Fanatics name & the initial Fanatics logo check out this article from AFTN: AFTN: Announcing the Fraser Valley Fanatics
Matchday With the Fanatics
The Matchday Experience within the Fanatics’ section is defined by a dual emphasis on collective auditory unity and sophisticated visual displays. This characterization remains consistent across all venues, including home fixtures at Willoughby Community Park and designated away sections throughout the league.
The visual component holds equivalent importance to the acoustic impact. The Fanatics are responsible for the conception and execution of compelling Tifos—large or small scale, coordinated displays often comprising banners, flags, and two sticks—that fully occupy our end. Further visual impact is achieved through the deployment of smoke, flags, and handpainted railing banners. These elements serve the purpose of celebrating the team and lifting them to victory. The planning and financing for the displays are entirely managed by the membership, underscoring the passion and dedication involved.
Auditory energy is sustained by a passionate capo (the organizational conductor) and a dedicated drummer maintain a continuous, rhythmic foundation for the chants. The repertoire is diverse, featuring traditional football chants, familiar popular melodies adapted with VFC-specific lyrics, and original compositions. The lyrical structure balances simple, instantly accessible chants with longer, anthemic songs designed to cultivate a powerful emotional atmosphere. The membership views every auditory contribution as a vital means of motivating the Eagles toward victory. The songbook is maintained as a dynamic, evolving document, subject to refinement based on member input and the team’s ongoing performance.
Fanatics: Restructuring for Sustainable Growth
Until early 2025, the Fanatics operated as a meritocracy, relying on members’ volunteered time and natural skills (design, logistics, leading chants). This organic structure was highly effective during the initial, passion-driven foundational years.
Recognizing that sustained growth demands organisation, the membership voted to adopt a formal structure with defined roles. This transition ensures greater accountability, efficiency, and long-term sustainability.
On Sunday, March 16, 2025, the Fanatics held their first Annual General Meeting (AGM). At this meeting, the group formally established an unincorporated association and elected its first leadership. Ten individuals were elected, with eight forming the inaugural Board of Directors. This formalisation enables the group to better manage finances, coordinate away travel, plan large Tifos, and delegate work effectively, ensuring the VFC supporters’ voice grows more organised and impactful.
Want to help shape the future? The Fanatics are a formal association committed to creating the best matchday atmosphere in the CPL. Becoming a member is the first step to becoming apart of the Fraser Valley Fanatics. Check out the Membership Page Here
