When you think of West Ham, it’s hard not to also think of the phrase Over Land and Sea. The Hammers faithful are just that; everywhere and at anytime.
Earlier this month, The Green Street Hammers introduced via Twitter our new exclusive series titled “West Ham United OLAS.” Over the next few months, we will be showcasing a supporters group weekly from near to far and wherever in between; we will be finding Hammers from everywhere and introducing them here on this platform.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues its slowdown, fans will be not only packing the stadiums but the pubs and bars, meaning it’s time to find your local establishment and raise the flag! With that, let’s dive into the first installment of this series and look at The Fresno Irons out of Fresno, California.
West Ham United OLAS Chapter 1: The Fresno Irons
The Fresno Irons were initially established in 2016, where they meet up every matchday at the Full Circle Brewing Company. Every week they have fans from all over pour into the brewery to cheer on their beloved West Ham United. Being that they meet at a brewery, you could imagine that some cool perks come with that.
Without question at @FullCircleBrews with the @FresnoIrons and the West Hamber Ale! pic.twitter.com/CCtJIgys1w
— Fresno Irons (@FresnoIrons) September 9, 2019
One of those perks being that they created their own beer. The West Hamber Ale was created for the Fresno Irons and made locally but available for shipment anywhere. The Fresno Irons may be a newer group to the circuit, but if you’re looking for a place to call home, this is it. Founder Kyle “Tex” Thornton said, “we are just loud and crazy.” It sounds like West Ham to me!
We are going on a European tour!!!Love this club, but let’s be real this IS FRESNOs FINEST!@WestHamSocial @WestHam @WHUFCFZ @USA_WestHamWay @americanhammer3 @AHRWHU @JKCorden @WHUFCFZ @PLinUSA @PLFANS2020 @WestHamWayUSPod @PLFanChat #FresnoIronsFamily #MyPLMorning #559FC #WHUSOU pic.twitter.com/mtc8kNvwA9
— Fresno Irons (@FresnoIrons) May 23, 2021
Every supports club had a defining moment that solidifies them as a group, and The Fresno Irons are no different. When West Ham United came to America back in 2017 for the preseason, Tex and the lads were there. It’s not often that fans from the US get to see the boys in action, so they took a road trip to fulfill that dream.
The Fresno Irons is also home to a famous ex Hammer, former FA Cup winner, cricket player, and legendary goalkeeper, Mr. Jim Standen. The Fresno lads are blessed to have Jim there to relive the stories about the roar of the Boleyn, Bobby Moore, and the east end. Jim was quoted saying, “The Fresno Irons make me feel like I’m back at the Boleyn.”
Whether you are just in town for a holiday or have moved there permanently, check out The Fresno Irons and relive history, feel like your back at the Boleyn, and partake in your very own locally brewed beer. For more information on the supporter’s group, look them up on Twitter @FresnoIrons or Facebook here. Until our next OLAS chapter, COME ON YOU IRONS!