World Cup Phenomenon Begins Again
Landon Donovan (10) and DeMarcus Beasley (7) exchanging high-fives during a 2008 World Cup Qualifier against Cuba.
When the World Cup occurs, yes, it is an outrageous sporting event; however, many consider it to be a cultural phenomenon. For one month out of a year every four years, 32 national teams from all over the world earn their ways to the FIFA World Cup, the culmination of a qualification process that begins nearly three years in advance and involves 204 out of the 208 FIFA National Teams.
As one would imagine, it is quite the journey for a team to finally qualify for the big event. This year, the World Cup is being contested in South Africa and lasts from June 11, 2010 to July 11, 2010. It is the first time in history that the famed tournament will be held in an African nation. This is undoubtedly an exciting time for the world as a whole, and in my opinion, a turning point in the present American soccer culture.
When one looks at American sports, soccer would not be on the top of the list for sure. There has always been that niche market for soccer in the U.S., but where is the overwhelming support from the whole nation? There really is not one to blame for the lack of support; however, recent efforts in media outlets, major apparel companies and other marketing platforms across America have been pushing for the U.S. population to indulge themselves into soccer frenzy. Why? The obvious answer would be because of the upcoming 2010 FIFA World Cup, but I believe the recent marketing push for soccer in America holds a broader strategy.
Nike has been running advertisements in America that display the “Future” of the sport and not necessarily the one month of events that are soon to occur. Through great marketing, Nike has done its job as I have been hearing more people talk about “soccer” every day and not necessarily the World Cup, which is exactly what Nike wants. Not only is Nike helping itself in a huge way, but, additionally, they are helping the game of soccer. I think it will be interesting to see how this advertising campaign translates to the aftermath of the World Cup and if American society follows their national team and domestic soccer league (MLS) more than ever before.
My expectation would be to see current and future American soccer enthusiasts take the interest level of the USA soccer team and multiply it to the level that many countries in Europe like England or Germany have. When the Yankees win the World Series, “Yankee” fans go wild. When the Cowboys win the Super Bowl, “Cowboys” fans go insane. It may seem like a huge deal, but it is really the major celebration of one distinct fan base of a team in a domestic sports league. Wouldn’t it be something to see the United States population as a whole celebrate and stand behind one team that represents the whole country in a tournament that is extremely difficult to qualify for? Imagine what it would be like to see the whole country in celebration rather than just the streets of New York or Dallas.
Although this is a very broad assumption, I believe that the turning point in American soccer lies upon the outcome of the first game in group play as the USA takes on a “powerhouse” England squad. If we go on to beat them, it will be a huge factor in the turn around of US Soccer.
This year, the US Soccer Team which consists of 23 of the greatest American soccer players will compete for the ultimate goal of winning the World Cup. Midfielders Landon Donovan and DaMarcus Beasley and goaltender Tim Howard are three veterans that are returning to the squad this year. Both Donovan and Beasley helped lead the US to the quarterfinals of the tournament in 2002 and hope to return that success and more to this year’s squad. Howard was a back-up goaltender on the 2006 squad, but will get the starting position for this year’s cup.
Two newcomers to the team include forwards Edson Buddle, who leads Major League Soccer with nine goals and Herculez Gomez, who has been one of the premiere players in the Primera Divison de Mexico. Both of these players were considered long shots in making the 2010 squad; however, after successful years for both men on their respective squads, they made the cut and are expected to play great. Head coach Bob Bradley, a New Jersey native, will coach the US in the World Cup for the first time after replacing former coach Bruce Arena.
Overall, the US Squad this year consists of a variety of players that come from established soccer leagues around the world including the UEFA in Europe which consists of the Champions League and others, as well as Major League Soccer which is based in the USA.
Traveling to the World Cup is something I believe every huge sports fan should do at least once in their lifetime. Aside from the competition, it is also an unbelievable experience to witness the mass amounts of people with their distinct cultures and traditions from around the globe. Although the event is quickly approaching, there are still ways to experience it first hand.
If you are looking to bring yourself or even the family to the World Cup, contact Premiere Sports Travel for what promises to be a great experience all around in South Africa. For corporate clients, Premiere Corporate Events can greatly assist your company in providing the best possible experience for your employees at the World Cup.
Whether experiencing the World Cup in South Africa or at home in 3D or HD, it is bound to be a great month of competition, exposure to new cultures and of course, excitement. It is my hope that the US National Men’s Team can use their leverage and create a new and thrilling era in USA Soccer. What are your thoughts?
5 Comments on “World Cup Phenomenon Begins Again”
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nice post. thanks.
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Loving the World Cup action thus far. Did you know that 2,063 goals have been scored in Fifa World Cup Finals over the years. Wonder what the tally will be after this one.
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