By: Marc Parker (Knox Animal contributor)
When the 2010 FIFA World Cup kicks off this June in South Africa it will bring with it a new level of attention and popularity for the game of soccer. Even though the majority of the world is accustomed to the popularity of the sport, it lacks popularity in the United States. Soccer doesn't get the respect the other major sports get in the States, but when it comes down to Team USA versus the world, no matter how Americans feel about soccer, they pay attention.
The 1994 World Cup (the last time the games were held in the United States) was attended by a total of 3.6 million people, which is still a record even though the games have expanded. It was the highest attended single sporting event in U.S. history. The United States Bid Committee understands the significance of hosting such an event and has pulled out all the stops to bring the games to North America over other competing locations like England and Japan.
The U.S. Committee's board of directors is made up of important figures like U.S. Soccer President, Sunil Gulati, Mayor of New York, Michael Bloomberg, Governor of California Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Counselor to former President Bill Clinton, Doug Band. The latest addition of Doug Band to the U.S. Committee is a smart move on behalf of the committee because Band, an avid fan of the game, is co-creator of the Clinton Global Initiative. He has worked tirelessly to help millions across the globe, adding an internationally recognized face on America’s bid. Band's commitment and global understanding is exactly what the Committee needs to make the 2018/2022 World Cup in North America a reality.
With the world watching, the 2010 World Cup will be on the forefront of most sports fan’s minds this summer – US included. Team USA is poised to begin their quest for their first ever World Cup. They drew a favorable bracket and will open the games against England which has many in the country ready to rename this soccer battle the Revolutionary War Part II. If Team USA makes a strong showing this year, it will do wonders for the idea of making soccer relevant in North America.
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