Welcome to “We are Common”, our series where we showcase members of the Lansing Common community. In this feature, we introduce you to AJ Badge.
How long have you lived in the Lansing area, and what do you enjoy most about it?
Born and raised, so just under 4 decades. I love the “big city” feel in a small-town setting. I can always find something to do. Great local bars and restaurants as well as a multitude of parks and sights to see. Lansing is home.
What was the moment or team that got you invested in Lansing soccer?
I started following United the moment they were announced. I remember attending the first game. I was sitting in the middle bleachers at Archer with a friend of mine and my oldest son. To the right of us were the Sons of Ransom. They were loud. Singing, chanting, and drumming. I turned to my son and said ” those guys know how to do it. I need to be there. ” From the second game on, I was always in the supporters’ section.
What made you want to become a member of Lansing Common FC and what do you view as your role with the club as a member?
Everything. I love being a part of something bigger than myself. It gives me a place to meet with friends. It gives me a platform to yell, chant, and sing for my club. And that right there is my role with the club, to stand and yell for 90 minutes. To support our club and push the players to victory.
What is something important that the team needs to do to be as successful as we want it to be?
People. Not just fair-weather fans or diehard supporters, but getting people to know the name. Being able to talk about LCFC anywhere, and have people know about it. From radio shows or podcasts to barbershop or supermarket discussions of how the squad has been doing, directions they should be going, or even past great moments…… Sweet merch also helps.
Where do you see Lansing Common FC in 5 years?
Competing at a high level. Whether that be in our current league or another. I would rather build a great product (on and off the field) slowly, than try and go big to quickly.
If you would like to be featured on a future “We are Common”, please head here to submit your answers to these questions and upload a picture. It’s a great way to introduce yourself to the many who are “common”.
