Dear San Jose Earthquakes fans:
We are proud to announce an entity-wide relaunch to our independent coverage of the San Jose Earthquakes ahead of the 2018 MLS Season. Over the past few weeks, an epiphany slowly morphed into an elaborate concept that not only encompasses us (the journalist) and the club, but you (the supporters and readers) as well.
There is no questioning MLS’ substantial growth, both on and off the pitch. Yet consistent, independent coverage of the Quakes has failed to accompany that same upwards trajectory. We’re not only here to alleviate that, but with the backing of Patreon, we will alter the perception of independent soccer coverage in our beloved San Jose and Bay Area. You, the supporters, the ones who bleed Black and Blue, will fuel the project from top to bottom.
“How are we going to accomplish this?” you may ask. Well, we’ll be utilizing the San Francisco-based companies crowdfunding platform to gather funds. This gives you the ability to support our coverage with more than just clicks. Like any other avant-garde project, money will be the first obstacle to overcome — what we have in store more so. Through Patreon, you can support us in our quest to bring you cutting-edge written, audio and video content. With the different levels of support on Patreon, there are ways for you to gain access to certain exclusive coverage of the Quakes. Don’t mistake this as a pay-to-read, subscription-based site. We won’t have a paywall. However, there will be special podcasts, interviews, constant Patreon-only dialogue between supporters and I and much more that will be exclusive to our “Patrons.”
Of course, like any other viable independent site, we will not only need the support of readers but guidance from incisive, critical journalists. Fortunately, we have brought together a group of individuals (we will look to expand), each bringing their unique flair, yet all in accordance to the project’s ultimate goal: to create a true, supporter-sustained independent soccer website fueled by the voice of the fans and the objectiveness of the journalist.
We hope this is the commencement of something special and innovative.
We sincerely and wholeheartedly thank you for your support of our project,
Joel Soria
Editor-in-Chief
