SUPPORTERS have been the constant backbone throughout Southend United’s existence.
The Shrimpers have been backed loyally since being formed back in 1906 and lifelong supporter Dave Brabbing, who first watched Blues back in 1962, knows only too well the friendships which are formed at Roots Hall.
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“Players, managers and owners come and go but the fans will always stay,” said Dave.
“The people I sit with are a joy to be with and that’s one of the best things about supporting Southend.
“You meet such great people and the club really does mean a lot to so many people.”
Blues have sold more than 5,000 season tickets for the forthcoming National League season and the size of the backing was mentioned by a High Court judge as the only reason he was allowing the club to continue in August 2023.
That was music to the ears of 91-year-old Brian Colbear who has been watching his hometown club for 87 years.
“Southend United have always been my club and it’s always been a huge part of my life,” said Brian.
“One game I’ll never forget is when I brought my wife to Roots Hall against Queens Park Rangers.
“I was in the North Bank with all my friends and when Queens Park Rangers scored she cheered so she never got another invitation!
“But you meet great people going to the games and you get to the know people sitting around you. I think that’s the best part of it and there’s just no other team like Southend.
“We’ve had some good players down the years but I’m getting too old to remember all their names now.
“I always liked Steve Tilson but I think Stan Collymore would be the best I’ve seen.
“I’ve still got my season ticket and I’m looking forward to being back for the start of the season.”
Blues regularly travel in big numbers on the road and memorably had more than 30,000 fans cheering them on at Wembley for the JPT Trophy final against Crewe Alexandra in 2013.
The club now boasts a large number of younger supporters including 17-year-old Mack Stopher who travels all over the country to support them.
“Southend to me is way more than just going to watch football,” said Mack. “It’s more about the people you meet and the memories you make.
“I’ve been through so many lows following this club, seeing back-to-back relegations and also days where I thought I’d never have a club to follow.
“But with that comes many highs like that famous win against Wycombe in 2015 and recently the FA Trophy final against Wealdstone.
“ I’d be absolutely lost without Southend and hopefully I can make many more memories in years to come.”
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