How Carrie Epperson Is Transforming Kansas City's Sports Culture Through Rhythm

Creating Community Through Rhythm: The Role of Carrie Epperson

In a world where fandom can sometimes feel fleeting, Carrie Epperson stands out as a beacon of community engagement right here in Kansas City. As the leader and founder of Surface Tension, the drumline for the Kansas City Current, Epperson is not just keeping the beat; she is crafting a culture of connection, one rhythm at a time. Before Epperson took the plunge into the realm of soccer fandom, she identified a personal gap—she wanted to truly feel a part of the burgeoning soccer landscape within the city. A love affair ignited in 2019 during the Women's World Cup, and her journey has since inspired many local residents to embrace the NWSL team, turning casual supporters into die-hard fans.

Building the Beat: The Inception of Surface Tension

Bringing a new fan experience to Kansas City was no small feat. Joined by her wife Laura, Epperson harnessed her passion coupled with her experience as an educator to transform the supporters' culture at the KC Current matches. Inspired by the synced energy of European matches, Epperson sought to replicate that vibrant atmosphere in Kansas City. With limited equipment—think old drums and improvised drumsticks—she began teaching simple but powerful beats to rally the fans. What started as a humble venture quickly evolved into a powerhouse of entertainment known as Surface Tension.

A Unique Perspective: Local Sports and Community Connection

“Spiritually, at least, sports teams belong to their city,” Epperson emphasized during her interview, showcasing her deep-rooted belief that the team’s essence arises from the people who support it. The drumline has served as a pivotal point for making every match feel like a festival. The chants, cheers, and beats become a communal glue that transforms the stadium experience into something truly special. It’s this sense of belonging that has endeared Surface Tension to fans and players alike, mirroring sentiments expressed by fellow fans who note how integral the atmosphere is to the game's success.

The Historic Home of the KC Current: CPKC Stadium

As the Kansas City Current prepares to play at the newly built CPKC Stadium, Epperson and her drumline are ready to amplify the energy on game day. Designed from the ground up for women’s sports, the stadium represents not just a new home for the Current but a landmark achievement in sporting history. The shimmer of the new venue combines with the beat of the drums, creating an electric atmosphere that players feed off of, reinforcing Epperson’s assertion that they are an essential part of the experience. “We really do have a little bit of control of the tempo and control of the audience,” she explained, indicating the drumline’s significant role in enhancing the on-field action.

The Nostalgic Journey: From Makeshift To Magnificent

Reflecting on her journey, Epperson recalls the transition from performing in a modest baseball stadium with rudimentary equipment to supporting one of the strongest teams in the league at a state-of-the-art facility. This journey serves as a testament to how a grassroots initiative can inspire and unite a city, leaving a lasting impact on both the sports culture and the community. “There’s just something about Kansas City. We build organically really, really well,” Epperson remarked, emphasizing that the essence of the Current extends far beyond just the players and owners—it encompasses the passionate fans who rally together in support.

A Call for Future Leaders in Fandom

Even as Epperson contemplates stepping back from her leadership role, her hope is to empower others to take charge of the superfans’ experience. She aims to instill a sense of responsibility among fellow fans, encouraging them to maintain the vibrant energy that Surface Tension represents. By doing so, the embodiment of fandom can continue to thrive and evolve with new voices at the helm, ensuring that the community's spirit is always alive and well. “I don’t want it to get stuck with me... I’m hoping to see more people step forward and take leadership,” Epperson explained, exemplifying her commitment to the future of Kansas City soccer.

Connect With Us!

As Kansas City continues to embrace the dynamic sports culture led by visionaries like Carrie Epperson, local citizens are encouraged to find ways to contribute to and participate in this community-building effort. Whether through supporting your favorite team or getting engaged in local clubs and events, every little bit helps to strengthen the city’s unique identity. Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com and let’s keep the conversation going!