Take 2: Soccer is un-American? What an ignorant point of view – The Seattle Times
BY BRIAN McGEE
Editor’s note: This column is in response to Wednesday’s Take 2 — “Why soccer is un-American and 10 ways to fix it,” by Doug Esser — which was written as a satirical look at soccer in the United States.
OMG, did I just read this? In The Seattle Times? Mr. Esser, whose wife says he knows nothing about soccer, claims the sport is un-American and proposes dramatic changes to improve the game “for America.” I couldn’t disagree more, and I expect a responsible newspaper to print responsible articles, not ridiculous, narrow-minded, chauvinistic drivel.
I am an American, born and raised in the Midwest, steeped in football, basketball, baseball and other traditional American sports. I didn’t know much about soccer until I was about 40 and my children started playing. Since soccer was and is the most popular sport in the world, I wanted to learn more about the game.
So instead of whining on the sideline about rules and strategies I didn’t understand, I started reading about the game, watching professional matches and coaching my kids. This led to coaching clinics and, ultimately, to putting on cleats and joining recreational leagues. My appreciation for the sport grew exponentially with my knowledge. While I will always love football, basketball and other traditional American sports, soccer has become my favorite sport to watch and play.
I am offended by the article’s repeated statements that soccer is un-American and that all Americans desire changes. Most people I know either enjoy the sport or at least acknowledge its existence and global stature. Not to mention we have three local professional soccer teams, one of which draws over 40,000 fans (i.e. Americans) to each home match. I would have thought the Times would have a better understanding of its readership.
I realize there are still many people who don’t know and appreciate soccer. Rather than bastardize it into an unrecognizable version for America, I recommend they spend some time learning the beautiful game. It’s the world’s most popular sport for good reason!
Possibly Mr. Esser intended his piece as irony. Most of his suggested changes to the game are certainly outlandish. If so, this reader did not see the humor.
Want to be a reader contributor to The Seattle Times’ Take 2 feature? Email your original, previously unpublished work or proposal to Sports Editor Don Shelton at dshelton@seattletimes.com or sports@seattletimes.com. Not all submissions can be published. Opinions expressed are those of authors, and The Times reserves the right to edit and publish any submissions online and/or in print.
About Us
Free Shipping
If your order is $35 or more, you may qualify for free shipping. With free shipping, your order will be delivered 5-8 business days.
