Holmesdale Fanatics
In 2005 a group of Palace fans came together to form the Holmesdale Fanatics. It was a last ditch attempt to salvage something from an increasingly bland and soulless stadium and the leaders of this group still had vivid memories of the atmosphere and passion of the old Holmesdale Kop, which was pulled down in 1993.
Four years on and we have over 60 members, as well as good numbers in our area that back our chants and help us create atmosphere for 90 minutes. We stand behind our group banner at the front of the Holmesdale (by the away fans) and are distinctive in our Block with pre-match displays of colour and passionate support that combines old and new Palace chants.
The group is deeply rooted in Palace's history, loyal to local players, legends and those who share the club's ethos. When the group was launched there was a combination of respect, support, fear, misunderstanding and ignorance. Some people told us that forming a group was not 'English,' but it was clear to look around the stadium at people sitting in silence that the notion of any form of support was dying a quick death at Palace. It was also clear that in an era of heavy handed stewarding, massive police presence, cctv and all seater stadia that some form of urgent action and organisation was needed. The group is 100% anti-modern football, anti-sky and against the new breed of fan who expects to pay through the teeth and sit in silence, treating those who do make noise as a nuisance.
We've created an outlet for likeminded, hardcore fans and have ever growing numbers as people wanting to positively back the team come to join us. More than anything, we've changed the matchday experience and brought back the passion and atmosphere of years gone by.
See you next season.
