While on a study abroad program in England, ASU finance major Evan Johnston found himself in an unexpected adventure. Planning to explore London’s famous landmarks, Evan’s day took a surprising turn when he inadvertently joined a fervent group of football fans.
Evan had enrolled in a hop-on, hop-off bus tour around London, intending to see iconic sites like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. However, his day deviated from the plan when he boarded a boat for a river cruise. “It was supposed to go through all of the major landmarks in central London, such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, etc,” said Johnston. Instead, the cruise was filled with singing men, all wearing matching shirts and paying tribute to Southend-on-Sea, a town in Essex.
Realizing something was amiss, Evan inquired about the boat’s destination, only to discover it was en route to a soccer match. “Eventually I asked someone, like, am I on the right boat? Where is this headed? They broke the news to me that this was, in fact, heading to a soccer match,” Johnston recounted.
Despite his initial confusion, Evan was warmly welcomed by the fans. When offered a beer, he opted for cider due to his gluten intolerance. “One of the soccer members came in and invited me to drink with them. So I obliged,” he mentioned. The group’s camaraderie quickly included Evan, who became an honorary “Shrimper,” a nickname for Southend United supporters. “Immediately, as soon as I joined them, I felt welcome,” he said.
The unexpected companionship led Evan to the football match, where more fans greeted him enthusiastically. His newfound fame on social media had preceded him. “By this time, I had already been getting some fame on social media,” Johnston explained. The fans even chanted “USA!” in his honor during the game.
The match concluded with a 1-1 draw against Sutton United, keeping Southend United’s playoff aspirations alive. “Oh my gosh — the energy was just infectious,” Evan remarked, captivated by the experience.
After ensuring Evan’s safe return to his dorm, the Shrimpers invited him to future matches. Although he was considering a trip to France, Evan expressed no regrets about missing the London tour. “I wouldn’t have traded it for anything else,” he affirmed.
Southend United was set to face Forest Green Rovers in the National League semi-finals later that week, a testament to the enduring spirit of the Shrimpers and their newest member.
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