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Attending My First Pro Soccer Game Ever: Sounders FC
Published: April 27, 2009
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A couple days ago, I remarked on how I looked forward to the chance of getting to go to a Sounders game.
Well, a couple days later, I got my chance!
One of my friends that had season tickets invited me to come along.
I jumped on the opportunity and went to the game with an open mind. Walking to the stadium kind of gave me flashbacks to my first Seahawks game…
The Sounders game day environment, like the Seahawks game day environment, is way different from going to a Mariners, Husky football, or Husky basketball game.
I never knew people could get so hyped up over a soccer game. My friend remarked that the game day environment was just as crazy before the Sounders joined the MLS.
But, he said the fan base and the fan environment are on a whole different level now.
Unfortunately, I didn’t have any Sounders gear, but my friend lent me one of his trendy Sounders’ scarves.
It seems like these scarves are the equivalent of a baseball cap at a Mariners game.
EVERYONE had one.
We made it in time for the Golden Scarf ceremony (I still don’t get what that is), but people seemed excited, so I just clapped and smiled acting like I knew what the heck was going on.
I enjoyed the PA announcer.
He wasn’t like Tom Hutyler (M’s PA announcer), but a guy with a British accent.
I almost felt like I was at a Quidditch Match (whatever that feels like).
Anyway, the pre game player introductions were pretty epic, and the crowd was just so into the game before it even started.
Eventually the game started, and I stood along with everyone else to watch the game for 45 minutes.
I didn’t think I was going to be able to stand for that long, but it really wasn’t a big deal at all.
This was WAY better than watching it on TV. The seat I was in was one of the best seats in the house.*
I’m not going to try to preach any ground-breaking analysis—I was asking my friend a question like every 10 seconds about the different strategy and the way the game was going.
Thankfully my friend didn’t get sick of me.
Frankly, I was really surprised at how involved the crowd could get despite there not being so many goals scored.
But, the anticipation that collectively builds among everyone watching is a cool thing. Every missed shot or goal was wrenching and collective, “Damn its, shoot, crap.”
I loved it.
For once, the fans at a sporting event were actually WATCHING the game.
Soccer is not a passive sport to watch, unless you watch it on TV. Unlike baseball, football, or basketball, there are ZERO breaks in between the action.
I think you’d be crazy to leave to go to the bathroom.
I wasn’t in a million years going to leave my seat and lose the possibility of seeing the Sounders score a goal.
Speaking of goals, it is probably one of the best feelings when your team scores a goal.
The Sounders scored two this game, and it felt good!
Overall, it’s amazing what a change of heart a person can have. That’s why you always have to be open up to things no matter how much your preconceived notions may motivate you.
P.S. My favorite player?
James Riley!
*Tickets are cheap! You could get decent seats for $30…that’s a good good deal in my opinion.
