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Red Patch Boys

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Red Patch Boys

Team Toronto FC
Location BMO Field: Sections 111, 112
Established 2006
Website redpatchboys.ca

The Red Patch Boys is an officially recognized supporters group for Major League Soccer's Toronto FC. The group was founded in late 2006 by football (soccer) fans in the Toronto area immediately after the announcement of Toronto FC's creation as Canada's first MLS franchise. An official identity, dedicated website and message board, and formal organization of the group later emerged, and the group has grown to become the largest supporters group for Toronto FC.

At Toronto FC home matches, the group is primarily based in sections 111 and 112 of BMO Field which has been named the "The Bunker", though RPB members can be found scattered all throughout the stadium. The mandate of the Red Patch Boys (RPBs) is to support and promote Toronto FC and the sport of soccer throughout Canada, and to help contribute to the atmosphere at all TFC home games. Along with the other supporter groups in Toronto, they have gained widespread notoriety for showering opposing players with streamers during corner kicks and goal celebrations. In addition to activities in their home stadium, several members also take part in away games at other MLS venues; notably Columbus, Chicago, and Foxborough. The group's name is a homage to the Red Patch Devils, a nickname given by Axis forces for the 1st Canadian Infantry Division which fought across Europe during the Second World War. The visual identity is based on the unit's badge which features a stylized Canadian Maple Leaf.

Fans celebrate at a Toronto FC match

The group runs several soccer-related events and programs throughout the year and promotes away-game viewing parties, travels to Toronto FC away matches, and takes part in various flag-making and chant-creating sessions with other Toronto FC Supporters. They are also involved in several charitable events and sponsor amateur youth soccer teams. The group's message board has been noted as a very important communication tool for all Toronto FC fans. The group maintains national and international links as well, and boasts several members from across Canada and around the world.

RPB Player of the Year

At the end of each MLS regular season, the Red Patch Boys conduct an online poll for the annual RPB Player of the Year. The award is presented to a single player on the Toronto FC senior roster in recognition of their contribution to the success of the club and to the community over the course of the season.

Year/Season Award Recipient
2007 Canada Jim Brennan
2008 Wales Carl Robinson
2009 Canada Dwayne DeRosario
2010 Switzerland Stefan Frei
2011 Ecuador Joao Plata
2012 England Richard Eckersley
2013 Scotland Steven Caldwell