THE WORLD (Not My) CUP

Maybe because my kids and grandkids play(ed) it. Maybe because I once coached it for a short time. Maybe because our pastor played Division I soccer. Maybe because I know what a great conditioning sport it is. And maybe because the whole world loves it.

For whatever reasons, I feel bad about not liking soccer. I just see all these athletes playing it, and I think what a great defensive back in football. What a great leg for kicking field goals and extra points. What a hustler who could be a great base stealer. What stamina--he/she could run the mile. What explosiveness; there's a halfback.

And when I watch, I invariably hear giddy soccer moms screaming for their kids who get the ball all the way down field just to cough it up. I watch disinterested fans who check their watches silently praying for the time to pass quickly so they can watch or participate in another athletic contest.

I remember a high school coach and referee stopping on the tee box before hitting his first drive of the day to announce, "Soccer is ruining this country." Out of place, yes. I've had crazier swing thoughts on the golf course.

Of course, I try to keep these feelings to myself. I only share them with my most ardent readers, so while I won't be hypocritical enough to talk about the Spain shutout, or the tie today in World Cup action, I won't bad mouth the game I loathe either. By the way, just between you and me--I don't like hockey either.