12 Questions with the Stuttgart Surge OFC
The Stuttgart Surge OFC speaks in the EFA Talk about the difficult situation around the insolvency of Stuttgart Surge, the mood within the fanclub, the strength of the community and the question of how football in Stuttgart can continue. Photo: Florian Schust
After the insolvency of Stuttgart Surge, many fans face an uncertain future. In this 12-Questions interview, the OFC explains how the fanclub received the situation, what Surge means to the community and why they do not want to give up football in Stuttgart.
How did you as a fanclub receive the news about the insolvency of Stuttgart Surge?
The news hit all of us in the OFC hard. For many of us, the Surge is or was more than a team — it is or was a piece of identity and passion. Accordingly, we were surprised and deeply affected.
What was your first thought when it became clear that much could change for the Surge and their fans?
Our first thought was: What does this mean for all the fans, players and the football location Stuttgart? It was also immediately clear to us that a phase of uncertainty was beginning, because the ELF did not have a clear line at that time either.
What is the mood within the OFC right now?
The mood is mixed. There is disappointment, but also solidarity. The first thing we did was suspend the membership fee. There were a few departures, but they stayed within limits.
What does Stuttgart Surge mean to you personally, regardless of league, structure or organization?
For us, Surge means community, passion and the joy of football. It is about people, emotions and experiences — not only one organization. Tailgating, fan friendships and the stadium atmosphere are what connect us.
How does a fanclub deal with such a difficult situation?
By sticking together, communicating openly and continuing to meet. In our community, with subgroups for NFL, EFA, AFLE, off-topic and more, there is still active exchange.
Are there already thoughts about the future of the OFC?
For us it is clear: the OFC will continue for now, regardless of the fact that the name Stuttgart Surge has disappeared for the moment. We want to remain a contact point for football fans in Stuttgart and support the sport.
What is especially important to you now?
Exchange, solidarity and staying present. We do not want to give up the experiences and friendships we have gained. We want to keep living and expanding our shared passion for football.
Do you have contact with other fanclubs or groups that have experienced similar situations?
Yes, we have already had contact with the Legion of Jupp from the Cologne Centurions and the Anchor Club of the Hamburg Sea Devils.
What has been your best moment with the Surge so far?
There are many special moments: the founding of the club, all our tailgatings, the semifinal atmosphere against Rhein Fire, the energy in the GAZi-Stadion, all away trips and the bus trips to Frankfurt and Munich. At the very top is the home final with the title and the celebration with fans and team. Those emotions remain, no matter what happens.
What would you wish from possible new structures or a future solution for football in Stuttgart?
We wish for transparency, sustainability and a clear vision for football in Stuttgart and Europe. It is important that fans are taken seriously and that decisions are made with a long-term view — sporting, financial and organizational.
Do you believe the fanbase in Stuttgart is strong enough to stick together after such a setback?
Yes, absolutely. The OFC fanbase and the Stuttgart fanbase are passionate, loyal and grown. We have experienced highs and lows. This year alone, OFC members attended games in Schwäbisch Hall with 15 people, indoor games with the Stuttgart Stallions with 25 people and Stuttgart Scorpions with 75 people including tailgating.
Why is it worth standing together as fans right now and not giving up football in Stuttgart?
Because football in Stuttgart has a future if we shape it together. Especially in difficult times you see how strong a community really is. We believe in the sport, in the people and in the energy that football can create here.
Many thanks to the Stuttgart Surge OFC for the open answers. This interview shows how much passion, identity and solidarity live in a football community — especially when times are difficult.