Small Talk

June 14, 2010 »

World Cup Fever

As an Irishman and a European, there are certain stereotypes that I encounter on a daily basis that do not ring true with me.  For example, I hate corn beef, cabbage and green milkshakes.

However, there is one generalization that I very much do play into – I love soccer; a sporting staple in any European household.

As the 2010 World Cup kicks off in South Africa, the nostalgic childhood memories are coming back with a vengeance. To many, the World Cup is a celebration of nations, bringing all types of people together, in what can perhaps be best explained as a resurgence of patriotism. While the Olympic games hold strong emotions for most people, to me, the World Cup represents a truly global experience.

While Ireland is not participating in this World Cup (sore subject), I do have a fall-back team - U.S.A! I know, I know, I live here and I’m half American, but I’ll be forever GREEN.

The World Cup has, in the past, had little impact in America.  Perhaps this is because kids are forced to play football and softball in school, or maybe it’s just a general lack of interest. However, I truly believe that this World Cup will finally spur a revolution. Soccer has no barriers to entry, no expensive equipment or preposterous coaching expenses; it’s all about one thing - passion! Passion can be translated. Passion can be transferred. Passion can be shared with others.

It’s because of this passion that World Cup frenzy will hopefully ensue, and it will be aided by word of mouth. WOM will help develop excitement for the game; excitement which will build as the tournament and love of team and country progresses. Kicking a ball into a net seems like a simple concept, but for some, it’s everything. From the Ivory Coast to Holland to Mexico, 11 players represent more than a flag; they represent the millions of people following them at home.

The notion of passion and that of word of mouth are inextricably linked.  Passion needs to be shared, calls for a transference to others. Interest or not, the World Cup is a fantastic forum for people to share their own passion, pride and patriotism on a global level.

 If the U.S. wants to win that World Cup bid in 2018, they’ll need WOM!

 So, if you are passionate about something, shouldn’t you spread the word?

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