A week or so ago, I had a friend ask me if I had ever been to a Real Salt Lake Game. I had not, but have heard many good things about the Real Games. Needless to say, I was anxious to give it a whirl!
Admittedly, Katherine did not know which seats to buy, so she just bought some that were available. The tickets she got were in the south end, only 5 or 6 rows up from the field and they were great seats! As you walked in there was a sign that gave the usual disclaimers; no coolers, no umbrellas, be courteous, etc., etc., etc. However, I didn't notice this initially, but as I made my way back I noticed some additional lines that said something like: The section you are seated in is the supporters section. People here stand, there is smoke, confetti, yelling, and fun. If you can't deal with this go home. (okay, that might not have been exactly what it said, but it is close.) I really, really appreciated that sign. I wish other venues would have those kind of sections. A few years ago when I attended an NFL game there were some grumps that nearly got into a fight because the people in front of them were standing, they paid for the seats, not to stand for the entire game. Blah, blah, blah! I might not always stand at these kind of events, but I can promise you that if I sit and the people around me stand, well that is my fault. I was talking about this with a co-worker today and we think that concerts should be divided into sections like this. Although, we did come up with our own groups: "The Fuddy Duddies" those that want to sit and be miserable the entire time; "The Porn Section" for those couples that have to grope each other all night; and lastly "Those that are here to have a good time section" Oh wait, anyway I digress.
Walking into Rio Tinto, I did not feel sufficiently bandwagon. There were very few fans there not wearing Real apparel. Even if they were not in a jersey, many people were wearing Harry Potter type of scarves. I nearly felt compelled to look for pricing, just so I would not feel completely left out. I did resist.
Sporting events are always a great place to people watch. Soccer is absolutely no different, although it might be a little better. It seems that with soccer there are more traditions, pre-game rituals that are performed. As we were walking around the stadium there was a group from Portland gathered together, in full apparel and together they marched and sang what I can only imagine is an old Irish drinking song. They continued to do this until they arrived at their section.
The basics of soccer are fairly easy to understand, kick the ball and try to get it in the net. The only person that can touch it with their hands is the goalie. So, I at least knew when to cheer (sometimes). I was able to identify what I thought should have been penalties or fouls or yellow cards or whatever. And like basketball, I was even able to pick up on the Flops!
The game seriously was electrifying as everyone in our area was up and yelled and screamed, someone brought in drums to pound on--yes you heard it--they brought in drums, a fog machine, banners, tapestry, etc. I had a great time. I was actually a little disappointed as clock time ran out. But remembered the refs would still let the game continue on for an unspecified amount of time (I Googled Soccer Time Limits, to obtain this information.) Anyway, as clock time ran out the play intensified dramatically as Real was up 2 - 1 and Portland was trying to get back into it. There was a few tense moments as the play unfolded just feet away from where we were standing.
The game was intense and fun! I seriously had a great time and am pretty certain I will go back to another game. I know, I know, soccer can be boring. But like with so many other sports, it is fun being AT the action. So, if you have never attended an MLS game, you should do it! Really! If you want to go out and have a good time and you have the attitude that you will have a good time, you will! So, what are you waiting for? Quit staring here, look up your local team and get some tickets. Do it already!
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