Dear Triumph Family,
As I sat down to write this update, what first went through my mind was, “Wow. I really miss you all.”
We were supposed to be well into our 2nd season, cheering on an incredible team together, sporting our cool new Triumph gear, and listening for the Reedy River Riot’s latest chants. I have to admit, not being in the stands with you makes me sad.
I know I’m not alone in that. But soccer’s time will come. Today, like everyone, we are facing the challenges of COVID-19. We are praying for those who are hurting and heartbroken, and doing all we can to help one another through this.
My approach to a challenge has always been to work tirelessly to overcome it, to find whatever good I can in it, and to look to the future. So today, I simply want to give thanks. Not for the virus, of course, but for what it’s shown me about my teammates, our community, our fans and even myself. Seeing people rise to the challenges, selflessly supporting one another – and finding joy in unexpected ways – inspires and humbles me.
My family and the ownership group couldn’t be more thankful for this Triumph club – our players, coaches and the whole front office make me prouder than proud every single day. We were on a Zoom call last week, and I got a bit emotional because, well, they are a very special group. A family. And they’ve shown extraordinary commitment, creativity and resilience, working to make the most of today, and to plan for that future we all can’t wait to begin.
I wish I could tell you how that future looks. Heck, I wish I knew! But what I can share is that our League and club ownership groups are talking multiple times every week to assess current situations, review data, learn from experts, hear what other leagues are considering, and make decisions that are singularly focused on keeping our team, our fans and our staff safe and healthy.
Our goal continues to be to play a full season – or as close to one as possible. With fans in the stadium. And that’s where this team and staff have put their creativity to the test. How the schedule could look, what we can adjust in the stadium operationally, creating a great experience for fans, sponsors and partners. No one wants to see you out at Legacy on a Saturday night more than we do, and I promise we’ll announce plans as soon as they’re made.
In the meantime, I am thankful for you, that you’re part of this special Triumph family. Thankful for you turning out last season and planning to join us in 2020, for watching our USL League One games on ESPN+, for buying and wearing Triumph merchandise, for drinking Bridge City Coffee’s Triumph Blend and Brewery 85’s Riot Blonde Ale, and for proudly displaying THOSE CAR MAGNETS that really are everywhere! You have also shown amazing support for our restaurant partners with takeout orders and gift card purchases, and you made our “Virtual Store Sale” a huge success, with 100% of profits going to our local United Way’s COVID-19 relief fund.
Yes, times are scary and uncertain. But I know this: if we remain strong and vigilant, and work together as a team and as a community, we will be back together again. We will share joyous days and nights when we can play matches, cheer together, and recognize our heroes, survivors and champions.
We’re not just looking forward to that, we’re counting on it – because YOU ARE the Greenville Triumph. And for that I am most thankful of all.
In closing, if this “update letter” sounds more like just a note of thanksgiving or even a prayer, then perhaps it’s appropriate. Lately, while unable to live my weekday routine of going to lunch at some of our area’s great restaurants, I’ve instead been buying carryout lunches and then driving to a beautiful neighborhood church park to eat – a church whose parking lot I had never before visited. Exactly why, I don’t know, but these days there is just peace in that, and it feels right.
Until we meet again, stay safe and healthy, and know WE ALL remain with you in spirit.
Joe Erwin, Chairman
Greenville Triumph Soccer Club
