If you’ve ever attended a football game, or even watched one on TV, you’ve most likely come face to face (or face to plasma screen) with a member of the Pro Football’s Ultimate Fan Association (PFUFA).
Perhaps you didn’t know the term, or even that such an organization existed, but you’ve seen them.
Dressed from head to toe in glorious team colors, PFUFA members can be spotted in most NFL stadiums and around local communities. You’ve probably wondered what might possess a person to go to such extremes to show support for their team. What you may not realize, though, is that the commitment goes far beyond game day. This is an organization of fans with a deep rooted commitment to football, camaraderie and community.
The Pro Football’s Ultimate Fan Association is an organization that was formed when the Visa Hall of Fans Award ended in 2005. The Visa Hall of Fans Award was a collection of fans, one from each NFL team, gathered for a yearly ceremony supported by Visa until the sponsorship ended. In 2007, the PFUFA opened the membership to a draft selection process to welcome new fans to the organization.
The draft process encompasses several steps, including a nomination by an existing PFUFA member. The most important part, however, is that each nominee represent the mission statement of the organization:
To promote the fellowship of all fans, encourage sportsmanship and support charitable activities.
Each member participates in local causes around their community, such as fundraisers, charity walks, and meet and greets.
The PFUFA, which is a non-profit organization, has adopted the J. Babe Stearn Boys and Girls Club of Canton, Ohio. During the Hall of Fame weekend each year, the organization collects and donates school supplies to help families in need. The eligible families can meet the PFUFA members at the J. Babe Center the day before the Hall of Fame game, while they receive their items for the school year.
One of the most incredible aspects of being a member of this community is the support from other members, both in their individual charity events and when traveling to the away games of their respective teams. Host city members meet up with their visiting colleagues during their stay and welcome them to the local tailgating and stadium experience. The bond between members is special, as you can respect team rivalries and competition but still appreciate and connect with others just as passionate as you.
Currently, there are 145 active members, with the Baltimore Ravens having 10 fans on their roster. Before the 2016 membership applications, the Ravens fans are tied with the Houston Texans for the most member representation. Given the longevity of both franchisees, the fans should certainly be proud of those numbers.
This is truly a special organization of people, willing to give their time and energy to encourage and uplift football fans and communities across the country. The next time you see a member dressed to the nines in spectacular game day gear, take a moment to say hi or snap a selfie with them.
And in the event you encounter a fan of a visiting team, welcome them into your city and your football experience. After all, they are a passionate fan of an NFL team – just like you.
