Twenty two players, ninety minutes, two
managers and the roar of a billion fans worldwide. Football is more than just
two teams contesting for three points or a cup. Football is more than just the
on-field drama. Football is a lifestyle.
For the ardent supporter of the game, a
match is not of the stipulated ninety minutes. A match lasts forever. Be it in
discussions, arguments, videos or the analysis of a match. Maradona’s ‘hand of
god’ to Zidane’s ‘head butt’, each and every incident lasts forever. What make
the sport immortal are the fans. Fan forums to pubs to coffee shops and
restaurants it is the fans that keep football alive everywhere.
Football
is nothing without fans. –Jock Stein (Celtic
football club manager 1965-78)
A well-known tradition that is followed
by major football clubs is the trophy tour. This usually happens after a club has
won the league and they showcase their trophy atop a bus as they tour the
entire city. This is also a thanksgiving to the fans for their loyal support
through the ups and down of the club. In an intense match, the fans can raise
their team’s morale by cheering every pass, every shot on goal and that lifts
spirits.
Talking of out of field aspects of the
game, a well known social cause that every football club and every supporter
participates in is the fight against racism. Racism in the 21st
century is still an alarming issue and people associated with football make it
a point in reminding everyone about the ill of racism in every match where
banners and hoardings against racism are highlighted.
Football against racism in Europe is one such network that is put up to counter racism in European football. Clubs also make a point in helping the unprivileged children, the patients suffering from life threatening diseases and local charities as well.
Prominent football personalities are signed by the United Nations as their ambassadors as they help in preaching the universal language of respect. David Beckham and Lionel Messi are examples of superstars who have represented the UNICEF. They travel to different countries and conduct football training camps for children who cannot afford to join an academy but are united by their passion and love for the sport and most importantly their will to not let go of their dreams.
Football against racism in Europe is one such network that is put up to counter racism in European football. Clubs also make a point in helping the unprivileged children, the patients suffering from life threatening diseases and local charities as well.
Prominent football personalities are signed by the United Nations as their ambassadors as they help in preaching the universal language of respect. David Beckham and Lionel Messi are examples of superstars who have represented the UNICEF. They travel to different countries and conduct football training camps for children who cannot afford to join an academy but are united by their passion and love for the sport and most importantly their will to not let go of their dreams.
Football has always been a story of
heroes. Rising above poverty, illiteracy and unemployment, football has given
us stars that shine so bright that their light is reflected by anyone having a
heart. Alexis Sanchez, Neymar Jr, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo are few
examples of superstars who has risen above every odd and are now the national
treasure of their respective countries. Football teaches us to love, respect,
dream and to never let go of that dream. It teaches us to believe. It teaches
us to never give up. Football, truly more than just a game.
SUBHASHIS MITRA
Msc.Media || PG:1
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