Soccer: the Yuppie Game

Every year when the World Cup is played, the whole world goes crazy with the exception of the United States. People in other countries are willing to riot and risk body and limb just to show their loyalty to their team while we in the U.S. ask, what's the big deal? The big deal is soccer is the most popular sport in the world. Why do we not have that passion for the sport in the U.S.?

The reason we do not have that passion in the U.S. is that most people today cannot afford to pay for their child to play competitive soccer.  Sure, every city in America has a recreation league in which everyone can play. The trouble with the city leagues is the fact that everyone can play. Some kids are there because their parents need a baby sitter for a couple of hours and have no interest in the game or even trying. Boys and girls are placed on the same team. Skill levels vary from fair to just standing around. The volunteer coaches have little to no
experience with coaching youth soccer.

Soccer clubs seem to be the best way to learn the game of soccer. The boys and girls are separated. All kids have an interest in the game and want to play. Most of the parents have played soccer and are willing to encourage and support their kids in this endeavor. Players are placed at skill levels where they can learn and yet not be hindered by players that are too
advanced or under advanced. Coaches know the game of soccer and have the ability to teach players.

The problem with soccer clubs today is the cost. With the economy today, the average family cannot afford to pay the cost for their kid to join a soccer club. Many clubs want their players to use certain equipment and wear certain uniforms. The cost of the necessary equipment to properly equip a player can be more than the average family can afford.

Isn't it a shame when kids in a third world country grow up playing and wanting to be  professional soccer players and our kids here in America cannot afford to have that same
opportunity? Maybe that is why there is little interest in America when the World Cup is played.  

I believe we can change this view in America. Join me this year and find an under-privileged kid and sponsor him or her to join a soccer club and provide them with all the necessary equipment to play. This may sound corny, but such a simple gesture  may change a
kid's life. Share your wealth.

Ken Hunt