How I Became a Soccer Fan
I grew up in Pittsburgh. Here, the important sports are (American) football and, to a lesser extent, hockey. We do have a sorry excuse for a baseball team and some people pay attention to Pitt (University of Pittsburgh) basketball. My exposure to sports other than those, including soccer, was very limited. I never knew anyone who was a soccer fan growing up, and probably didn’t realize how popular it was in other countries until I was in college.
In 2006 the World Cup came and went, and I was rather indifferent. I do remember seeing the end of the final game between Italy and France after happening upon a crowd of people around the TVs in a mall food court. I stopped to watch the historic last few minutes of the game, surprised I barely even knew the World Cup was going on. I saw the end of the game, remember something about a head-butt, and continued with my shopping.
But my indifference towards soccer has changed. Perhaps being in a relationship with a Brazilian who has the expected level of fanatic-ness has something to do with it. I must say, Roberto’s passion for soccer has rubbed off on me quite a bit. Whenever Brazil plays it becomes a group social event with BBQ, drinks, cheering frenzies and friendly wagers. I have a blast attending these kinds of functions and, with my patient teacher, have learned quite a bit about the sport, players and history.
As a traveler, I’ve also learned to appreciate soccer in a different way. Even if the US is slow to catch on, soccer is truly the world’s sport. As I learn while traveling with Roberto, soccer is somewhat of a common ground between its fans from all walks of life. So many people from around the world share this common passion that it’s hard not to be intrigued. Soccer tends to creep in to the travel experience when we don’t plan for it, such as watching Real Madrid vs. Barcelona while in Madrid last April, watching little boys kick the ball around barefoot in Cairo, and seeing the remnants of celebrations (and cars painted) in the streets of Istanbul after their Fenerbahçe got really far in the Champion’s League.
So I am enjoying this year’s World Cup, especially now since I know about many of the players (and certain infamous coaches who shall remain nameless) and have a good understanding of how the tournament works. I am SUPER excited to see Brazil play this week!
So, Americans, give the sport a chance this World Cup. Enjoy the games!
(footballfancast.com)
