For die-hard Newcastle Jets supporters like Declan Hitchcock, football is more than just a game—it's a way of life that brings people together across state lines. The 26-year-old cabinetmaker from Belmont will be at Cardiff Railway station at 7am on Saturday, dressed in his gold Jets playing strip, ready to embark on an epic journey to Adelaide with around twenty mates.
A Well-Organised Football Pilgrimage
This dedicated group of Novocastrians represents just part of a larger contingent of more than 100 fans making the trip to Coopers Stadium for Sunday's 5pm kick-off. The initial ticket allocation sold out midweek, demonstrating the growing enthusiasm for the 'Box Office Jets' who currently sit top of the A-League ladder with five consecutive victories.
"Since COVID-19, I've been committed to attending all NSW games and one or two interstate matches each season," Hitchcock explained. "This marks my first visit to Adelaide, leaving just Perth and the two New Zealand away days remaining on my football bucket list."
Forging Friendships Through Football
The logistics of these away trips are handled with almost military precision. As soon as the fixture draw is released, fans immediately begin planning, pencilling in dates and coordinating through group chats to determine travel arrangements and accommodation options.
"We've booked a hotel in Adelaide from 12.30pm, so there should be a substantial pre-game gathering," Hitchcock noted. "For Sydney matches, we typically meet two hours before kick-off. We always try to stay at the same motel or in the same area to maintain that sense of community."
What makes these journeys particularly special is the social fabric they strengthen. "Some of my strongest friendships have developed from travelling to Jets games together," Hitchcock reflected. "Many of us are in our mid-twenties to early thirties. While friendships often fade after school, we're guaranteed a fortnightly catch-up to watch football together. We share a common passion, and it's truly awesome."
The Emotional Rollercoaster of Fandom
Hitchcock, who has been a Jets member for eleven years, understands the unpredictable nature of football. During home games, he sits in the north-western stand with his younger brother and grandparents, Doug and Sue, creating family traditions around the sport.
"Even though we're currently top of the table, I'm not getting too carried away," he cautioned with the wisdom of a seasoned supporter. "A few losses or the departure of key players like Will Dobson or Eli Adams can quickly bring you back to reality. Football is a long game, and I'm here for both the bad times and the good times."
This balanced perspective comes from experience. "I've been to away games where we've suffered 4-0 defeats, and it definitely sucks," he admitted. "But then you have home games like the last two 4-1 victories, and those moments are absolutely unreal. That's what you dream of as a football fan."
Regional Pride and Player Connections
The current success of the Jets has undoubtedly boosted fan engagement. "When the team performs well and plays like they're genuinely representing our region, people naturally get on board," Hitchcock observed.
His connection to the team extends beyond mere spectatorship. "I've become friends with Jets young gun Will Dobson," he revealed. "We're both Belmont FC boys, so we share that local connection. Seeing these young players giving their all—even when they make mistakes—is something I truly appreciate. I'd rather watch them learn from errors than see older players just going through the motions for a pay cheque."
As the train prepares to depart Cardiff station on Saturday morning, these dedicated fans will embark on more than just a football trip. They'll be strengthening bonds, creating memories, and demonstrating the powerful community spirit that makes Australian football culture so special. Their journey represents the heart and soul of local sport—where passion transcends geography and turns ordinary weekends into extraordinary adventures.
