As we all know, football is not the most popular sport in the U.S. At best, it might squeak in at number five (behind American football, baseball, basketball, and hockey. I might even slot it down at #6 behind golf). I’ve lived all over the country, and even though I have not lived there in […]
Grow a backbone…
As we all know, football is not the most popular sport in the U.S. At best, it might squeak in at number five (behind American football, baseball, basketball, and hockey. I might even slot it down at #6 behind golf). I’ve lived all over the country, and even though I have not lived there in 15 years, I still call Kansas City home. I consider myself a fiercely loyal individual. As a result, I am a loyal supporter of the Kansas City Royals baseball team and the Kansas City Chiefs (American) football team. Although they each have a history of past successes, they are both amongst the worst teams in American sports today. But they are my teams and I support them regardless. I find other Spurs supporters to be equally as loyal.
You will find several examples of other loyal supporters throughout this country who counter my next point, but not many people have a sense of geographic loyalty to the teams where they were raised and often follow whoever is hot at the time. These are spineless “bandwagon jumpers” and I will give you one simple examples to illustrate this point. My own brother, who was raise under the same roof as me until we were 18 and 19 respectively, is the biggest “fair weather” fan in the world. Because Kansas City did not have a professional basketball team when we grew up there, my brother first supported the Los Angeles Lakers because of Magic Johnson. He continued support them until the emergence of Michael Jordan. In the early 90’s he changed his allegiances to the Chicago Bulls because they began to build towards dominance. Now, I believe he supports the Miami Heat because of Lebron James. You may say, “well that’s just your brother” and true, he is spineless when it comes to sports, but I could fill several pages to demonstrate my point.
Sports in the U.S. do not have the history of British sports teams. Also, we are spread across a larger land mass and more sporting organizations like the National Football League, Major League Baseball, and the National Basketball Association, just to name a few. Nearly every major city in England has a football team of some sort and most of those clubs date back to the 1800’s. With families moving across this large nation for employment, family and other various reasons, they often do not reside in the same city or even state of their upbringing. As a result, they frequently have no history or pull toward the local sports teams. With no ties to the local organizations, they time and again end up following whichever team they think has a better playing style, higher winning percentage, or even a popular player. All too often, they become spineless fans of the best team in the league or sport.
For American football fans, and I call them fans for a reason, the spinelessness continues and they only follow the top teams. With very few exceptions, if you ask an American which football team they support, you will get the same answer every time: Man Utd, Chelsea, Liverpool or Woolwich and I even recently heard a City fan. For the exception of the brilliant young man who introduced me to Spurs (or someone from N17), in over 16 years of Spurs loyalty, I never met another American Spurs supporter. They are out there, but I haven’t met them, personally. Likewise, I’ve never met a Sunderland, Fulham, Bolton, or Everton fan for that matter. All I ever hear is Man Utd or Liverpool have X number of titles, or Chelsea just won the Champions League, or Woolwich once went undefeated, but you never hear honest reasons why they truly support their club. I even know a few fans who have recently switched from Woolwich to City because of recent success. They never grew a backbone.
Back during my first year in university I took a number of computer classes. In one of these courses I sat next to a young man who every morning would pull up various web pages and would pound the table in frustration or pump his fist in the air depending on what he read. After this went on for a few days I asked him what he was reading and why he would react the way he did. He smiled at me and said, “I follow Tottenham Hotspur Football Club and they’re the most exciting and frustrating club in the world.” I was intrigued by his answer. I never really played “soccer” as a kid, but I had friends who did and I enjoyed watching them play on occasion. I was a basketball and rugby supporter. Those games were high scoring and fast paced, but I wanted to find out more about what got this lad so emotional.
[linequote]He smiled at me and said, “I follow Tottenham Hotspur Football Club and they’re the most exciting and frustrating club in the world.” I was intrigued by his answer.[/linequote]
I asked who Tottenham Hotspur were and why he liked football. He was so animated when telling me about the club, their history, and the beauties of the game of football. After we talked for a bit, I asked him why he loved Tottenham so much. As it turned out, the lad’s father was employed by a company and they were based in London for a few years. He lived close to White Hart Lane and went to the American High School in North London. He went to games and became friends with mates who were Spurs supporters. He was so consumed by it and fell in love.
After weeks went by of asking questions and conversations on football, he invited me over to his flat to watch a game. I went, assuming I would be bored and would probably leave by halftime to go play basketball at the gym. When I showed up he and his flatmates were wearing Spurs jerseys and had scarves around their necks. He even had a Spurs poster on the wall behind the sofa. He told me they were playing at home to a team called West Ham (which sounded like a sandwich to me) and that they were rivals.
Right from the kickoff he and his flatmates were so keyed up and excited. They were yelling at the TV and were making jokes about the Hammers players blowing more than just bubbles. I did not get it, but they laughed. He started explaining players to me and telling me that he’d bet money that some guy named Teddy was going to score first for Spurs. I didn’t quite get it until he started to explain and show me how the plays would develop. To a football notice it was literally just a bunch a blokes kicking a ball around. Then it clicked. The short precise passes, the breaks down the sideline, the crosses and of course the missed opportunities. I was so wrapped up in the game I didn’t even care the game went into halftime scoreless.
As the second half started I caught myself on the edge of my seat as play would build and the guy named Teddy would shoot. We cheered and yelled, just hoping the Spurs would break the deadlock. Then it happened. Around the 65th minute the Spurs scored and we went crazy. We were jumping on the couch and yelling. For the rest of the match we were cheering for Tottenham to score again, but it never happened. The game ended 1-0 Spurs.
He invited me back to following weekend to watch the Spurs play a team called Sunderland and it because a regular routine. Until we left for the Christmas holiday, I was at his flat every weekend and saw the Spurs go 3-1-2. It was so thrilling watching them play and the devotion my friend had. Tottenham ended up finishing 10th in the final standings. If it had been that enjoyable watching a team finish mid-table, I couldn’t image what it would be like if they were good. My friend showed me what it was like to be a true football fan. To live and die with the club, the supporters, the competition, wins, draws, loses, and the passion. Even the club’s motto spoke to me, “To Dare Is To Do.”
For me, it always came down to the loyalty, pride and passion of the Spurs supporters. The fire in his eyes for the club, and the other supporters, was contagious. I have been a loyal Spurs supporter for 16 years because of the club, never any individual player or manager. I’ve had my favourites through the years, but the club has always been the foundation to my passion. I even made a pilgrimage over to the Spur’s Mecca that is White Hart Lane. I know I do not need to prove my loyalty to you, but it is because of you, the supporters, that I love Tottenham Hotspur Football Club. You make this club what it is and for that, I thank you.
[author name=”StretchTHFC” avatar=”https://www.thefightingcock.co.uk/forum/download/file.php?avatar=1552_1342211211.jpg” twitter=”StretchTHFC” website=”” tag=”StretchTHFC[/linequote]
All views and opinions expressed in this article are the views and opinions of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of The Fighting Cock. We offer a platform for fans to commit their views to text and voice their thoughts. Football is a passionate game and as long as the views stay within the parameters of what is acceptable, we encourage people to write, get involved and share their thoughts on the mighty Tottenham Hotspur.
34 Comments
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20/07/2012 @ 10:18 am
Another life story from USA, Oh Dear !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
21/07/2012 @ 5:41 am
Another cynic from UK who doesn’t care about anybody but himself, Oh Dear!!!!!!!!!!!
21/07/2012 @ 5:42 am
BTW, you’re entitle to your opinion, I’m just bustin’ your chops.
20/07/2012 @ 10:22 am
snore.complete bullshit.just like spurs
20/07/2012 @ 10:30 am
Sir you are a pratt !
20/07/2012 @ 10:33 am
Muggy littlr troll.
20/07/2012 @ 10:35 am
just like your sister
20/07/2012 @ 10:52 am
Great. Someone comes on here to post about why he loves a club, and what happens? He gets trolled by morons.
Personally, I really enjoyed the piece. I know exactly what you’re talking about with the balance between excitement and frustration. Being a Spurs fan is a form of voluntary insanity. Thanks for sharing your story.
And to the trolls – nobody cares what your opinions are, and nobody finds them funny. Grow a brain.
20/07/2012 @ 10:56 am
watch out.beadles about
20/07/2012 @ 11:09 am
Now in order to complete the journey you just need to stop referring to them as ‘the Spurs’, its just Spurs as in ‘I support Spurs’. This might not wow and amaze your friends but it will stop you from being irritating in the UK. Just a tip from across the pond. COYS
20/07/2012 @ 11:11 am
wow i can sense the hatred in that post.you can also refer to them as just scum.their also known by that name
20/07/2012 @ 5:40 pm
Will do Brum. It’s similar to how we say “the hospital” over here and you hate that and you don’t use the word “the”. I’m correct that. Cheers!
20/07/2012 @ 11:17 am
I loved the article too stretch,and the passion exhibited.Why is it so many people in the UK have to piss on people’s parades,we have to be the most negative nation in the world!! Lovely piece and thanks for sharing that.COYS!!
20/07/2012 @ 11:18 am
Ignore the trolls, StretchTHFC, they’re probably upset about something going on over at the library ….. Now, to return to your story – thanks a lot – it’s a heartening one. I first went to the Lane in 1949, aged six – my Dad took me when his brother-in-law came out of the Navy. I’ve been a Spurs supporter ever since – for 63 years and have put up with as many downs as anyone. Nothing changes though – it is about the WAY we play, and we always will. No fair-weather troll will ever understand THAT.
20/07/2012 @ 11:20 am
the way of the world my friend.the yanks know as much about football as i do about brain surgery anyway.obvious by the fact he follows a second rate europa league team
20/07/2012 @ 11:34 am
Oh baby anto,I feel your pain,have you lost your gf to a yid have you?? Did she say all woolwich boy’s can’t do it and and are not only limpwristed:) I can feel the bitterness and anger,it won’t get any better you Greek mug,I’d look for way’s to end your sorry life:)
20/07/2012 @ 5:21 pm
I could be a G*oner like you, but I have more class and intelligence to ever make that mistake.
20/07/2012 @ 5:51 pm
I would wager I watch more football and know more about football than your narrow pea-brain can comprehend. Not only do I watch the PL, I also watch the Dutch, Brazilian, Mexican, Scottish, German, Italian, French, Spanish and Portuguese leagues as well. I love football and can see value outside just my team.
I’ll even be man enough to tell you I think ARSE-anal does a great job and buying young talent and developing them. They sell them off for a greater return and that is why they have been so successful. We’re trying to accomplish the same goal. Difference between you and me though, I don’t have to be a hate-mongering doosh like you and I illustrate my arguments and points with fact.
20/07/2012 @ 11:24 am
Anto is a Goon he loves Spurs so much he goes on all our blog sites but can’t bring himself to admit it cos all his friends are glory hunters, and we are glory makers!
20/07/2012 @ 11:29 am
glory makers? ha whens the last time you won anything decent? it maybe 7 years for us but its a lifetime for you
20/07/2012 @ 11:49 am
No 4 years ago we did the business and have the silverware to show for it, you are welcome to come and window lick our trophy cabinet as yours is laden with dust! ROTFL!
20/07/2012 @ 11:26 am
Dont mind the trolls , i have supported Spurs for 30 years since i was 10 i enjoyed your piece it reminded me of when i started supporting spurs. For Spurs to grow we need people like you ,thousands like you to build a future so we can be at the top of world football . I commend your loyalty and you passion , COME ON YOU SPURS
20/07/2012 @ 11:29 am
You’re right Paul well I’m sure with all the trophies Le Arse have won in the last 7 years I’m sure that they have accumulated loads of new supporters, oh no sorry no I’m obviously wrong because that’s not the type of character that Le Arse attract, their supporters all turn to black bags when they’re not winning they’re not singing!
20/07/2012 @ 11:31 am
nah not me mate im gunner till i die.and 7 years? have you ever won the premier league? maybe if that came from someone from utd or city.but spurs? give me a break
20/07/2012 @ 11:48 am
Awwwww Anto didn’t get his bitty!? You sound really bitter mate, I like the way you always try and belittle our amazing club, oooo you won the prem in a time when you had competition from 2 teams now the premier league is a bit more competitive you guys seem to be fading, and yes you just about managed to finish above us last season you really that confident you will be able to compete with no RVP? You guys wish you were us so bad you moved from Woolwich, then you use our COY then defile it with a G (this is a perverse obsession you have) and this years away kit for Le Arse emulates our purple kit we discarded last season! You my chump are a 1st class mug and you have no RVP tray to carry the other 10 mugs you have on pitch!
20/07/2012 @ 11:36 am
Anto my lil greek mug,you’ll be a wanker till you die!!! You sad deluded tool,shouldn’t you be painting your bedsit??:)
20/07/2012 @ 11:42 am
there lies the rub,my lil greek mug,and this goes for you and your fellow nomads,you just can’t fathom why the Yids have so many fans can you?? We’re obviously not glory hunters as we’d all be following a team who won things(like Chelsea) Does it hurt baby boy?? So when you scream how many leagues you’ve won in your lifetime,you echo the point made by our American friend.You are just a cheap glory hunter,with no substance at all..Hell,I bet you even shop in Primark is that the other reason why your gf left you??:)
20/07/2012 @ 11:59 am
Anto , please do as all your fellow fans do in the emirates library, KEEP SILENT, SSHHHHHHHHHHHHH.
20/07/2012 @ 12:04 pm
And like the emptycrates Trashburton grove stadium, there was silence!
20/07/2012 @ 12:24 pm
http://www.spurs.vitalfootball.co.uk/forum/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=33222&start=1
Awesome looking place!
Salivate! Haters are gonna hate, but they’re just fans in denial!
20/07/2012 @ 1:11 pm
We have a state of the art training centre, fantastic footballers, who can play passing attractive football, some very good youth players coming through, we play stylish attacking football, we are now getting the stadium, our fans deserve, a state of the art stadium, designed so the fans are close to the pitch, and its designed to generate fantastic atmosphere, and make our cheering even louder, and also we have a great chairman, who knows not to take any nonsense, from so called bigger teams, whats not to love about tottenham hotspur f.c, we should have got third last season, if it was not for redknapps indecisiveness at key points at the end of the season, and fulops gifting arsenal their vital goals, to steal third place, i know fulop is not great, but they were beyond bad mistakes.
Anyway well played ledley, and thanks for the loyalty, a true great player, who served and supported our club, tottenham ,through and through, and i wish him well in his next job at spurs.
22/07/2012 @ 9:33 pm
Um, I heard from an American that Football ‘soccer’ is on the rise, and it is currently the 3rd most popular sport behind American Football and Baseball, and is ahead of basketball amongst others.
22/07/2012 @ 10:03 pm
I wish that were true, but that is incorrect. If you base it off media coverage, jerseys worn in public, newspaper coverage, etc., It’s still behind the big four and possibly golf…like I said. Unless it’s a major tournament like the World Cup or Euros, they barely reference it at all and if you’re lucky one maybe two plays will make it into the top 10 plays of the day.
23/07/2012 @ 12:00 am
They bases it on viewing figures, television and the like, they were from Texas if that changes anything