Saturday, April 9, 2011

American Futball

I wanted to focus on why soccer isn't as popular in America as it is overseas.  It's safe to say that soccer is a universal sport, but just a footnote in America.

Looking at the basics, there aren't many rules in soccer and the one's in place are easy to learn.  The sport emphasizes equality among players, highlights nonviolence, and have referees making sure these rules are enforced.  Overall, there are two teams each trying to score in the others goal.  On that note, soccer is simple to play.  Kids growing up in poverty can play barefoot with anything that resembles a ball.  If you can find a flat piece of land, soccer is free.


Overseas, soccer is a part of everyday life.  If there is a game, no matter what time, everything is dropped to get to the nearest television to support their team.  This is where tradition plays a major roll.  Fans feel what the players are feeling emotionally.  They grew up with their parents watching the game and it's something they will pass on to their children.


Religion also plays a major roll in what team you root for.  For example, the Celtic team represents the Catholic religion, so if you are not Catholic, you're simply not a fan.  The same idea applies to Barcelona and Real Madrid.  Both teams are from Spain, but represent different identities.  Real Madrid represents the royal family, while Barcelona represents Catalonia, one of the Kingdoms of Spain.



The last point I want to touch upon is when you look at other countries, soccer is the number 1 sport across the board.  In America, though, football, basketball, baseball and hockey all have a higher priority.  These are the sports that make up the culture and identity of America.  Not only do these sports take higher priority over soccer, but an even bigger factor is television.  Here in America, television revolves around commercials and advertisements, so when football, basketball, baseball and hockey are being televised, there are plenty of breaks in the game where commercials fill in the blanks.  Soccer, though, has one break at halftime, where revenue can be lost.

So for those of you out there reading this, leave me some feedback!  Let me know what you think about this topic whether you agree, disagree or have any other input!

Monday, April 4, 2011

Soccer fashion

So I decided to change gears a little and focus on new soccer apparel.  Most athletes can agree that it really isn't about what you're wearing, but more importantly being out on the field playing your game.  Most athletes, though, are looking for the newest, up to date cleats for their upcoming season.

Each sport has different kinds of athletes.  Soccer has ones who are flashy, subtle, classic and those who are looking for the most popular cleat.  With that said, here's a look into the newest cleats....





The first set of soccer athletes I want to focus on are the classic, subtle players.  You can never go wrong with cleats like this.  These full kangaroo leather cleats, priced at $250, have the "ultimate in fit, comfort and ball feel."




 Now we have the flashy soccer player that must have the newest look.  The one who wants to stand out not only with their play, but also the shoes on their feet.  Priced at $399.99, these Nike Flywires have "the technology incorporated into the synthetic upper reduces weight, adjusts to the foot, provides support and increases ball feel."








Lastly, the player looking for a great save!  Adidas is known infamously for their Predators, and with these $130 cleats, designed for the Champions League, they're perfect.  "The world's top boot is back with the perfect combination of champion looks and elite performance. Every single element is designed to improve performance."

All of these cleats are available at http://www.soccer.com/, but the best thing about the site is they offer the same looking cleat at different prices.  Cleats priced at $400 also have the same look as those priced at $200.  Cleats can be found as cheap as $30.  It's perfect for any budget!

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

I'm back!

So it's been a while since I blogged, but I am officially back!

As of recent, due to the NFL lockout, Chad Ochocinco tried out for Kansas Cities MLS soccer team.  After a five day try out, he actually made the reserve team.  I am speechless to say the least.  Yes he has the speed, but soccer the skills are lacking, seeing as he hasn't played since he was in high school.

Dave Borchardt, the clubs spokesman, said, "He realized he's not good enough to make the team and play in games.  This way, he gets to be part of the soccer locker room, which is a dream come true."

Now we all know soccer in America isn't as popular or nearly at the level as it is overseas, but I feel like it's becoming a joke.  Don't get me wrong, I would love for this to work out in Chad's favor, but lets face it, he is an American Football player, not a soccer player.  Check out this interview with clips of him playing.

Who knows what's next for Chad's soccer career.  Hopefully it works out as a back up plan, but stick around to find out!