The fair-weather faithful: Why clubs struggle to get genuine support

Ugandan football, with its vibrant history and passionate rivalries, often paints a picture of unwavering fan devotion. Yet, beneath the surface of cheers and chants lies a complex reality, particularly when it comes to the consistency and genuineness of fan support.

While pockets of dedicated followers exist, a significant portion of Ugandan football club fans exhibit behaviors that suggest a fair-weather allegiance, notably when their teams face adversity. This phenomenon is evident in the prevalence of violence after losses, a reluctance to offer financial backing, and a sharp decline in stadium attendance during poor runs, with clubs like Express, Onduparaka, and SC Villa providing stark examples.

One of the most troubling aspects of this less-than-genuine support is the propensity for violence when teams lose. Instead of rallying behind their struggling players and technical staff, a segment of fans resort to aggression, often targeting match officials, opposing fans, or even their own club's property.

This behaviour is not only antithetical to the spirit of sport but also indicative of a lack of true understanding of the game's ebb and flow. The immediate aftermath of a defeat often sees a breakdown of decorum, highlighting a punitive rather than supportive mindset.

Beyond the emotional rollercoaster, the financial aspect reveals another major fault line. Ugandan football clubs, unlike their counterparts in more developed leagues, heavily rely on gate collections and merchandise sales for their sustenance.

However, many fans are notoriously unwilling to contribute financially, even for relatively modest ticket prices. The common complaint about a Shs10,000 ticket price, roughly equivalent to $2.70 USD, underscores a deep-seated reluctance to invest in the very clubs they claim to support. 

This financial apathy forces clubs into precarious positions, hindering their ability to attract quality players, improve facilities, and develop youth talent. The argument often made is that fans expect free entertainment, rather than acknowledging their role as stakeholders in the club's financial health.

Perhaps the most glaring evidence of fair-weather support is the dramatic reduction in stadium numbers when teams endure a poor run of form.

When Express Football Club, a club with a rich history and a passionate fan base, experiences a string of losses, the iconic Mutesa II Stadium Wankulukuku, once brimming with red, often sees significant swathes of empty seats. The same can be said for SC Villa, whose formidable support often dwindles when they are not contending for titles.

Onduparaka Football Club, a club that burst onto the scene with electrifying support from West Nile, provides an even more poignant example.

Their meteoric rise was accompanied by packed stadiums and an almost carnival-like atmosphere. However, as the club faced challenges and their performance on the pitch faltered, the once-unyielding crowds at Green Light Stadium began to thin. This stark contrast highlights that for many, the allure is tied directly to success, rather than an enduring loyalty through thick and thin.

This cyclical pattern of support – strong during winning streaks and virtually non-existent during lean periods creates an unstable environment for Ugandan football.

It prevents clubs from building sustainable financial models and fosters a culture where short-term results are prioritized over long-term development.

To cultivate a genuinely supportive fan base, a shift in mindset is crucial. This involves educating fans on the financial realities of running a football club, promoting a culture of patience and resilience during difficult times, and actively engaging them in the club's broader vision.

Until then, Ugandan football clubs will continue to navigate a challenging landscape where the roar of the crowd can quickly turn into a whisper, especially when the going gets tough.

Godfrey Drabe

The writer is Former Head Communication, Marketing and Public Relations of Onduparaka Football Club

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