The American edition. This week Trust Board member Ceri Stone meets the Stateside Jacks….

It’s been another productive transfer window as we continue to plot our journey back to the Premier League. Two promising additions who have caused quite the positive stir have come from the US in the form of Jordan Morris and Paul Arriola. To give them a warm welcome to the Jack Army we thought now would be a great time to meet Marc, the founder of Stateside Jacks, to discuss all things Swansea City from across the pond.

The Stateside Jacks

Who are the Stateside Jacks?

Stateside Jacks (SSJ) is an American based supporter’s group for Swansea City AFC created by Marc P and Jonathan N in 2017. We decided to create the group after we recognized the need for a space where American fans can coordinate meetups, have discussions and share their stories. We have 500 registered members, however there are tons more throughout the country.

What do you do as an association?

In a pre-COVID-19 world we arrange meetups across the country; match day threads; send newsletters; podcasts and spread the word about Swansea City in the states.

Have you visited the Liberty often?

I was fortunate enough to visit the Liberty for the first time back in 2019 alongside twenty other members of SSJ. We beat Stoke and Dan James scored an awesome goal. We hope to plan bi-annual trips for members in the future.

What engagement do the Stateside Jacks have with the club and the Supporter’s Trust?

At the moment I can’t say the two groups do a ton of work together but there are members who are a part of the Trust, myself included.

How can we increase trust membership with our American fans?

I am not sure how many are truly aware of the trust or if they are, what the trust does. I think raising awareness and perhaps hosting an event where SSJ members can ask questions to the trust would help.

What can you tell us about our two new signings Jordan Morris and Paul Arriola?

Jordan and Paul are spoken of highly by fans of both of their previous teams. They work hard, always aim to get the job done and both have tasted success, which should translate into strong performances on the field.

What is your favourite Swans memory?

I have been fortunate to have many experiences with the club despite only traveling to Wales once, I will say, meeting Alan Curtis in a bar in Milwaukee was a great experience.

We play Man City today, who beat us in the FA Cup two years ago. What is your prediction?

I will abstain from making a prediction.

Anything else you would like to add?

Please feel free to reach out to us any time. We are always excited to share our stories as fans and look forward to educating new Swansea City fans here in the states. We have a ton of information located on our website: www.statesidejacks.com

Here’s hoping Jordan and Paul bring as much luck to us as Marc did against Stoke in 2019. Keep up the great work YJB.

Ceri