Some of the most entertaining soccer you will ever see is right in your own back yard…
I wandered over to our regional rec center about 3:30 PM New Year’s Day to discover for myself a treasured local community holiday tradition: a men’s soccer tournament.
Although the field was full of spectators, ambient noise from local traffic drowned out all but the referee’s determined whistles and the occasional shot blasted on target from midfield.
Walking the perimeter, I spoke with many participants, onlookers, and organizers, who have been coming to this field to engage in recreational soccer for well over a decade…long before it was renovated with a synthetic all weather surface and permanently anchored goals [a rarity in our public parks, to be sure].
My guides pointed with pride to multiple generations present--their children and grandchildren romping about the sidelines. And they noted three young servicemen [Marines, I think they said] home for the holidays playing in this tournament for fun and relaxation. A wonderful family atmosphere.
After the days play ended, they planned a celebratory barbecue over in the picnic area.
It was enjoyable; I lingered to watch the final game.
Step overs, bicycle kicks, speedy precise passing, fantastic headers, great saves…awesome.
This is what a public soccer field is all about: building community.
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