My first recollection of a World Cup was when it was held in Mexico in 1986. I won't date myself by revealing my age, but I will say that I was old enough remember my grandfather and step-grandmother having these really cool containers with the Mexican flag on them and the World Cup logo. Both of them lived in Mexico, but they came to visit us in upstate New York and brought the containers. At least, that's how I remember the story. Back then there was little if any interest in futbol (soccer) in the U.S.A. My father loved it and played it recreationally in a league but beyond that and hearing it on the TV at home, I'm afraid we all had little exposure to soccer outside of our home, since it wasn't a big thing in the U.S.
A lot has changed since 1986. In the last 24 years (my goodness, it really has been 24 years!) soccer has become mainstream. Soccer moms are a political staple and the U.S. has become a world class team. So begins the story of why I am rooting for the U.S.A. In a previous post, I simplified my allegiance by saying that I was rooting for team U.S.A. because I was born here. That is true. However, it goes a bit deeper than that. When I say that I am rooting for the team because I was born here, what I am really saying is that I am rooting for the team because:
- As a second generation, I am thrilled to see soccer become mainstream in the U.S. My fiance grew up watching football at home and so loves football. I grew up watching futbol at home and so love futbol (soccer). Back in the day, I was often alone and misunderstood in this love. It is gratifying now to see the throngs of U.S. fans packing the pubs in this country to watch team U.S.A. play. It is great to be able to share with my U.S. compatriots my love of the game and to celebrate with them.
And that, in a nutshell, is why I am rooting for team U.S.A. and why I will be glued to the television on Saturday, crossing my fingers, praying, lighting velitas, tweeting and hoping that we advance. Like Buzz Lightyear says, "To the moon and beyond!" If Buzz Lightyear can dream (in English and Spanish) why not, team U.S.A.!