FIFA Soccer World Cup Tournament 2006 Began Today

Today began the most popular sporting spectacle in the world, but most of us in the United States barely care.  And that's sad.  The World Cup is a truly global tournament that allows competition between individuals of wealthy nations and poor nations.  Soccer is a great sport because all that is needed to learn how to play is a ball and some flat space.  Shoes are optional in some parts of the world.  No fancy equipment, no ice, no smooth hardwood floor, none of that is required.  As a result, you see countries like Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Paraguay, Ukraine, Trinidad and Tobago, and even Togo compete against European and S. American giants.  No other sport is as universal, and in the case of the World Cup, no other event displays such expressive patriotism.  The Olympics are close, but they don't match it.

As for why Americans don't like soccer nearly as much as the rest of the world, it's partially because we have other major sports, but I believe it's also because we like to see lots of points or goals scored and soccer can be deficient in this area.  If one lengthens her/his attention span and tires to appreciate fine passing, defensive play, and ball-handling skills as well as the strategic aspect, one will begin to appreciate soccer, the world's sport of choice.

If you're an American, give the USA some support!  They have a very competitive team this year.

+ Atul

Comments

[prego]

And it's a MUCH much more beautiful game than our so-called football.

By the way, you might want to re-visit that last statement!

[Dave P]

I agree with what you've said. In general-The NFL and NASCAR thrive because people are drawn to the speed and the violent collisions within the events. People dislike baseball because the pace is too slow. The steroids and HGH issues don't help either. People don't understand hockey which is why it lags in popularity and can't get TV exposure. People see basketball players as too "gangsta" or hip-hop. Thus, the newly instituted dress code.

I like and appreciate all of the above sports. Each offers something unique.

If the US ever became a soccer power, people would make the effort to learn about it. Until then, it will not be considered a major sport.

[prego]

Considering the high volume of kids that actually play it, I'm surprised it doesn't have that much of a foothold. Maybe the same kids that are running around a field, screeching as they chase the ball around the pitch will grow up and be fans.

More likely than not, they'll tune in to the English Premier League or the Italian League first. Or... Survivor: Cape Cod.

[Atul]

Prego,

Don't count the USA soccer team out yet. Perhaps they were shaken into reality by their first poor performance. It works for many NCAA basketball teams who barely win their first round games. And keep in mind that the Czech Republic is ranked number 2. Their midfield defense was amazing, kept the U.S. from putting much together in passes or dribbling.

Prego and Dave,
As for the sport, soccer is amazing to watch and like golf, it looks easy if you've never played. Few people appreciate it like the three of us do, but I think as our world becomes more global and kids continue to play it here, that soccer will become more popular in the U.S. Too bad it didn't happen with our generation. If I ever have a son, I'm going to have him play soccer and then become a fieldgoal kicker if there's no money or future in U.S. soccer.

[Prego]

Atul,

I hate to say 'never', but beating the Italians will be a tall order.

I do have sons. One of them's already running the pitch at 4 (though he kind of sucks) and the other one is already itching to play. I hope they just enjoy it as much as I did, but I pray to hell they don't succumb to as many injuries playing as I did.

Considering it's viewed as a sports for wusses, it does take a hell of a physical toll to play. Believe it or not, I had to resort to playing hockey when I couldn't play soccer anymore.