973/FCS
Editorials
Members
Commissions
Think Tank
Image Licensing
About
Snapshots are on the ground reports from our editorial department, field notes offering context, perspective, and a sharp lens on the cultures shaping the game.
Editorials
Members
Commissions
Think Tank
Image Licensing
About
Snapshots are on the ground reports from our editorial department, field notes offering context, perspective, and a sharp lens on the cultures shaping the game.
OSLO, Norway — KFUM Oslo’s sudden rise to the top tier of Norwegian football in 2023 was eye-catching for several reasons.
A grassroots team stepping up to the top division for the first time is exciting in itself—but also because of their unique home ground. To get from the dressing rooms to the pitch, players have to cross a street. You may have seen the semi-viral photos.
On March 30th, the sun hangs low over «Kåffa»’s season opener against Sandefjord. Around 3,000 people have squeezed into the temporary stadium perched atop the city.
Situated in Ekeberg, Oslo, KFUM’s fanbase is built around club members and locals with ties to its grassroots activities.
KFUM was founded on Christian values, as reflected in its full name: Kristelig Forening for Unge Menn (Christian Association for Young Men). The club is affiliated with the Norwegian branch of the international YWCA and YMCA organizations.
Norway officially separated church and state in 2012, but the process of secularization has been underway for decades—making a club like KFUM something of an anachronism.
While KFUM identifies as a Christian club, the level of religious devotion among its fans varies. Still, they embrace the club’s identity and heritage with pride—and occasionally, a touch of irony.
The supporters’ group, “The Prophets,” has adopted several Christianity-inspired symbols. Chief among them is their famous chant: “Bible, prayer, and church coffee,” often heard echoing over the pitch at both home and away games.
Church coffee—or kirkekaffe in Norwegian—is a specific tradition, referring to coffee (often served with cake) after Sunday services.
After finishing eighth in their debut top-flight season, change is in the air for «Kåffa». The city has approved the construction of a new 3,500-seat stadium, and the team is looking to establish itself as a regular in the top division.
KFUM ended up beating Sandefjord 3–1, to the delight of the home crowd. God’s blessing, it seems, can take many forms.