Dear "Socawarriors"!
Since your forum staff suggested I should post this here, why not ..
I'm a German lady from near Frankfurt/Germany who doesn't care too much about soccer anymore (to phrase it carefully) and who reaaalllly doesn't like the arrogancy and money-driven attitude of a lot of (also national) pro-players nowadays (to phrase it less carefully).
The World Championship now taking place here in Germany has not increased my general interest in this sport either- and if anything, I was planning on maybe watching the final game a bit, just to be somewhat "informed" the next day.
Well, that was the plan anyway. Little did I know I would by chance
happen to watch you guys play against Sweden... and who could have imagined I would actually have the time of my life doing so! I had so much fun watching you , it was pathetic! I know you've been considered "just a
team among others" with very little chances compared to the "famous" , more experienced teams at this event. But I have watched a game or two in my life - and seldom have I ever seen anyone having AS much heart and dedication out there on the field as YOU have! Both at the arena as well as at home in front of the TV: people could literally feel the energy,courage and heart you guys put into your game..and one couldn't help but get "caught" by what you were doing out there (especially when you were "one guy short" out there). I don't think anyone was "against" Sweden, they've always been a respected team over here. But from what I've heard from average people and also "experienced fans" everywhere -at the shops, on the bus etc.- : everyone seemed to be highly impressed and full of respect for your game...and even more so for your natural, easy-going friendliness and frame of mind, on and off the field.
Regardless of fans maybe having other "favourite teams" at this event:
people instinctively know a "fighter with heart" when they see one...and
YOU guys are fighters alright! You have gained so very much respect
already and true appreciation for "a really good game" against Sweden that was just fun to watch..and we have kept our fingers crossed for you until the very last moment, including myself.
Me, I really don't care who's gonna "win" in the end - you guys have
already made this championship worth watching and (in my opinion at least) you have brought the original idea and meaning of the game back to the field.. and a lot of stuck-up pro-players who have lost contact with
reality a bit can really learn a thing or two from you- what a great
reminder you guys are!;)
I have met a lot of people during the past days who -just like me-weren't
interested in the championship at all anymore, but will now watch YOUR games and"support" you whole-heartedly. For whatever it's worth: you'll be seeing a lot of us with Trini-shirts and flags from now on..and on their behalf let me wish you all the very best for the coming-up games. I'm looking forward to seeing more of you here! Keep up your good spirit and attitude, and don't forget to also sit back and enjoy your time here in Germany, which hopefully will be a good one to remember. You have already won a lot of peoples' hearts - so why not go for winning the championship as well..??! Go get 'em, guys!!
Wishing you all the very best and GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ira
