I always hated the argument of "I'd like to see an (insert various sport here) play soccer." It's not a real argument. It could easily be said for anything. Golf, basketball, tennis, whatever.
I won't argue that it takes a tremendous amount of talent, finesse, and toughness to play soccer. And I'll never make fun of anyone who plays any sport; because I know how difficult it is to get to a competitive level at any sport. However, I will say that soccer fans are the most vocal fans I've ever met. Any criticism, or even "meh" attitude, when it comes to their sport is met with confrontation and "you don't get it because you don't know what you're looking at."
I think soccer gets a bad rep for the most part. Much of it has to do with all the flopping and feigning of injuries that is so prevalent. Part of it has to do with it being such a low-scoring affair (and the fact that it can end in a tie) after both teams put forth so much effort. Much of the time, what's to show for it? A 0-0 tie.
Regardless, I have the utmost respect for soccer players. It's a difficult game to play. I just wish soccer fans wouldn't get so defensive when someone says, "I don't like it."
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"It is not enough that I succeed; everyone else must fail."
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