‘The heartbeat of game day’: how NWSL fans in Boston built culture from the ground up

Through the loss of one franchise, name controversies and stadium changes, Legacy supporters have created an environment of advocacy and belonging

More than two years of work had led to this moment for the Boston Independent Supporters' Association (ISA). Even before Boston's new NWSL team had a name, a mascot or a roster, there were fans organizing, ready and waiting to embrace the franchise.

On 14 March 2026, it finally paid off. The Boston ISA members marched into Gillette Stadium for the Legacy's opening match, following behind the marching band from Boston Public Schools and holding their Up the Swans" scarves over their heads. The group arrived at their seats in the supporters' section behind the north goal and unfurled the tifo they had spent many hours diligently painting.