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Even Without the U.S. Team Playing,
The World Cup Still Fun to Watch
by Randy Gardner
Every four years, I am glued to the TV and in about 24 hours the time will come. You know what I mean—it’s World Cup time. Unfortunately, the United States is not in this World Cup which seems like a disaster for many of us soccer fans but I think it put where we stand as a soccer country back into perspective.
There have been many bad coaching and managerial decisions over the past 10 years with this squad which ultimately just lay down and basically threw it away.
As far as soccer credibility and gaining popularity across the world, I think countries like the United States where we are trying to build soccer should automatically qualify. Here is my reasoning for that.
Look how many sets of eyes would be on every game across the world. The United States, which I am sure would be one of the most watched countries, would boost the numbers and ratings if we were in the World Cup.
I know this is a farfetched idea but it kind of makes sense doesn’t it? Right now the United States is getting ready to field a team for the 2022 World Cup. That seems like a long way off but qualifying starts almost immediately after this one ends.
The U.S. team has a lot of promising players like young forward Josh Sargent from right here from St. Louis. He has looked good in the friendly competition that he has played in, even scoring a really nice goal. The United States recently tied France 1-1 in a friendly even with playing mostly younger guys. When the team puts its MLS veterans together with these younger guys, I think we will be really strong.
As far as the women’s World Cup team, they always look strong. They are qualifying for the 2020 World Cup right now. They are a powerhouse, also with many strong younger players, as well as several veterans. I am looking forward to a strong run from them.
Vegas-Washington Run for the Cup was Fun
It was fun to watch the Stanley Cup finals, even though the Las Vegas Knights did not come back and win. What a remarkable storyline this was, offering a way to show other younger players growing up that anything can be accomplished if you want it bad enough. I love to see the raw passion of these players when they win something at that level.
It was something that the Washington Caps have worked for everyday of their lives and to see them win the Stanley Cup was awesome, especially for former St. Louis Blues’ player TJ Oshie. It was great to see these players hoist that cup in victory.
I think next season will be the year when the Blues give a solid run for the Cup. They have been rebuilding for a while and always fall short but this is the year. Bookmark this line and this column for next year when the Blues win and you can say I told you so. Have a great summer, stay cool and keep exercising. It makes for a strong mind and body.
