WHAT IS THE THIRD RAIL?

The Third Rail is the first recognized independent Supporters Group for New York City FC. We are a group of fans from all over the city (and the world) who come together to have fun, play soccer, raise money for good causes, and support the first Major League Soccer club to play in our great city.

We recognize May 21, 2013 as our founding day, the same day that New York City FC was announced as the 20th club in Major League Soccer, and prospective fans took to Twitter, Facebook and blogs to share their excitement.  Known at the time as "New York City FC Supporters Group", it began as a loosely-knit group interacting first on social media, then increasingly in public meet-ups, pub crawls and other events. Members of our group were present for the NYCFC logo unveiling event, the announcement that Yankee Stadium would be its first home, and other seminal events in the young club's history.

Why "The Third Rail"?

The name was chosen by a public vote of New York City FC fans on May 21st, 2014. It refers to the method of powering trains used by the New York City subway system, where the trains' wheels run on two parallel tracks and an electrified third rail running alongside provides the power.

The name has assumed the popular connotation of something powerful, even dangerous—controversial issues are often referred to as "the third rail of American politics"—but we are mostly interested in what the term means to New York. From the New York Subway to Metro-North to the Long Island Rail Road, the transit system is the lifeblood of our 24-hour city. These trains make our city possible, brings us all together, and all the while the third rail provides the power. 

We want to be the electricity that powers New York City FC, from the organization to the players on the pitch.

Our logo was created by New York designer Matthew Wolff, who drew inspiration from some of New York City's amazing Art Deco architectural heritage. It uses the same color palette as the club's badge but in a different fashion, befitting our status as an independent organization.

Our Mission Statement

This is the Mission Statement for the Third Rail, approved by the Board of Directors:

The Third Rail is a non-profit membership organization independent of New York City Football Club. We stand together as a testament to the melting pot culture of New York City, its many voices singing together. The Third Rail accepts all people regardless of race, age, gender, creed or sexual orientation. We believe in supporting our club, giving back to our community and growing the game in our city, from youth leagues to the highest level. We in the Third Rail will always extend a welcome hand to those who abide by these principles.

Member Code of Conduct

We understand that, as we grow the city's soccer culture, we are ambassadors of not only the Third Rail, but the club we support and city we represent. All members are expected to adhere to the standards of behavior laid out in our Member Code of Conduct at all times, both in person and online.

Events and Happenings

In service of our mission statement, we are always working towards building the city's soccer community. We co-hosted a World Cup Semi-Finals viewing party with NYCFC, and sponsor a team in local soccer tournaments such as the Supporters Club Cup and South Bronx United Charity Cup.

It is our hope that you'll join us, and add your voice to the chorus!