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| La Barra Brava | |
|---|---|
| Established | 1995 |
| Type | Supporters' group |
| Team | D.C. United |
| Founder | Oscar Zambrana |
| Colors | Red |
| Website | Barra-Brava.com |
La Barra Brava is an independentsupporters' group forMajor League Soccer'sD.C. United and theUnited States. La Barra Brava are often called the craziest fans in MLS for their antics.[1]
It was founded in 1995 byLatino fans in the Washington, D.C. area, mostlyBolivian immigrants in support of original United playersMarco Etcheverry andJaime Moreno.
Since then, the group has expanded and all have been welcomed, while the group has remained closely identified with its South American roots. Members currently stand and sing inAudi Field.[2] La Barra was founded by Oscar Zambrana and is led by Oscar and a group of "Elders".
La Barra Brava runs several events and programs for members and all United fans throughout the year. They sponsor away-game viewing parties, road trips to away matches and popular charity raffles that have raised thousands of dollars. They also maintain relationships with fan organizations worldwide, particularly with the Nottingham Forest Supporters Southwest/M5 Branch. La Barra Brava publishes at least 3 articles on United and soccer per week on their website. The organization also overseesBarra Brava FC, which fields several teams in the competitive Washington International Soccer League.
Within MLS, the Barra is known for its drumming, including the famous "Drum Circles" at halftime and after home matches. In 2005, La Barra Brava received extensive media coverage when suspended United playmakerChristian Gomez joined the Barra at road game in NJ and played a bass drum during the second half to support his teammates.
In 2006 the Barras expanded their events beyond the MLS season attending several of theNHL'sWashington Capitals home games at theVerizon Center. However, their presence at the arena was met with mixed reviews fromice hockey fans.[3]
Numerous references have been made by the media regarding La Barra Brava. On several occasions, when games at Audi Field are shown on national television viaESPN orABC, announcers will mention how La Barra Brava contribute to United's impressive home record.Tony Kornheiser has also used La Barra Brava as his stereotypical example of what he thinks typical D.C. United fans are like.
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