Welcome to “We are Common”, our series where we showcase members of the Lansing Common community. In this feature, we introduce you to Jeff Backoski.
How long have you lived in the Lansing area, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I moved to Lansing in 2003 from Grand Rapids. What I enjoy most about Lansing is all the different things that you can do in the area without traveling too far. Obviously sports, farmers markets, unique events like the annual “be a tourist in your own town,” and the many breweries to try.
What was the moment or team that got you invested in Lansing soccer?
The first Lansing United match, that was actually the first time I watched soccer. It was $5 and right down the road. The action was great and The Ransom brought the atmosphere. I didn’t miss a home match that season. I always tell everyone I sat the furthest away from the supporters the first match and by the end of the season, I was standing with them.
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?
Lansing deserves a men’s soccer club. After Lansing United men’s went away I would often talk with friends about how we could make our own team, this started as early as Ignite was announced. That feeling intensified after Ignite folded. As soon as I was aware Lansing Common was a thing, I knew I was going to buy whatever founding membership that was offered. My role with the club is to try to bring the noise on matchday, I can’t sing, can’t carry a tune, but I’m loud. 1 out of 3 is pretty good, haha.
What is something important that the team needs to do, to be as successful as we want it to be?
To be successful the team needs to reach the people like I was originally, they have to get those that don’t have a history with the sport, get them in the door and let the show keep them coming back. Make game-day an event, something that makes it a can’t miss thing on a person’s busy schedule.
Where do you see Lansing Common FC in 5 years?
Still competing. Being a place that my son and I can kick around a soccer ball in the parking lot before the match and yell for 90+ minutes during the match.
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”.
