The World's Greatest Sport

Feeling a little out of the soccer loop since the world cup ended last July, I have been wanting to become a more regular spectator of European football. We have the New England Revolution -an MLS team- to root for and we even have semi-season pass tickets to their matches this upcoming season, which we are stoked for! But their season doesn't begin until March. So how to scratch that soccer itch during the cold and dreary winter months?

In January I had the chance to visit Jeff while he was working in Ohio. We went out to dinner with his manager and friend, Corey, who plays soccer with Jeff on a weekly basis. Corey is a huge Bayern Munich fan, a team which I discovered has many of my (as well as Jeff's) favorite players who we grew to admire during the world cup games. It's basically the German National team with a few other stars from various countries, which means they are fun to watch and actually have a shot at winning often. Corey and Jeff watched some of Bayern's matches together during their month-long stint in Ohio and Corey showed Jeff how to access a station that airs all of Bayern Munich's games! And there it was. Suddenly an opportunity presented itself to follow a European team who we already have an affinity for, that we can watch on a regular basis! We've already become saturday morning regulars for Goal TV. Say hello to Bayern Munich's new biggest fans.

As a brief aside I'll share (for posterity's sake) why I think Soccer, or rather real football, is the best sport:

1. It's 90 minutes of uninterrupted athleticism and drama. There are no commercials, few delays, and no annoying halftime shows with bothersome cheerleaders or performances to be subjected to. It's about the game. It's simple, intense, and action packed.

2. The game commentary is nice to listen to. The commentators are usually British and therefore not only have lovely accents, which gives this "gentlemen's sport" a touch of sophistication, but they also say hilarious things like, "DYNAMITE! Absolute DYNAMITE!" or "...the ball bounces back, and he'll get another bite at the cherry!". They get so excited when a big play happens and it adds to the charm and energy of the game.

3. Best looking athletes. Without a doubt footballers are the most attractive athletes. And it makes sense. They're out there on the pitch sprinting around and working hard for ninety minutes unencumbered by bulky pads or helmets . They're not calling constant time-outs, switching lines, or taking excessive breathers. Soccer players have to be truly in shape and athletic. The sweet as jerseys are an added bonus.

4. It's "the beautiful game". The fluid movement of the game and pure athleticism of the players (in the form of jumps, sprints, headers, and goals) is stunning. Additionally, one of football's most pleasing thing to view is a series of good passes between one team. As author Nick Horby articulates, "there is a pleasant geometry about [football]". It's easy to be passionate about such a beautiful looking game.

5. Different teams have different styles, which makes it even more interesting to watch. From the English Premier League to the Spanish Liga, Europe to Africa every nation has a different way of playing the game. This is one reason it's fun to watch Bayern Munich play in the Bundesliga - the Germans tend to play with such discipline and intensity which leads to big plays and lots of goals. Mia san Mia!

So there you have it. Soccer is my fave and I'm excited to have more of it in my life. The end.