Soccer is the most popular sport in the world, but has generally had less of a following in the U.S.  Over the past few years, this has started to change, and more and more Americans have joined the soccer craze.  Southern Lehigh’s student body is no exception.

What has caused soccer to become more popular in the U.S.?  For starters, soccer leagues have become stronger, with prominent players such as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic dominating European soccer.

In addition to the growth of European leagues, the U.S.’s own league, the MLS, has seen a massive rise in popularity, helping bring the beautiful game to our shores.  The media has also helped bring soccer to the masses by broadcasting more games to U.S. viewers on major channels, like ESPN.

“The 2006 World Cup was really fun to watch, so I started watching club soccer as well after that. Then, when Philadelphia got a team I started to watch them,” junior Konnor Yurchak said, explaining how he started to follow soccer.  “I always liked watching because it’s 45 minutes of action with no commercials, unlike other sports that stop all the time.”

Another factor that has helped bring soccer to Southern Lehigh is the impact watching the professionals has on our soccer players.

“I think it helps with moves, but not necessarily with fundamentals because the game is so different at the professional level, less running, more passing,” freshman Justin Zsido said.

Although some students don’t see the benefits of watching the professionals in their game, they still like to watch the level of skill with which the professionals play.

“I wouldn’t say it improves my game, as much as it makes me appreciate the game,” junior Ainsley Hart said. “The things some players can do is absolutely crazy.”

In many countries around the world, soccer is one of the most passionately followed sports, and being a fan can be a major part of peoples’ lives.

“The passion is the best part. Going to a game is amazing because the fans stand up and sing the entire time,” Yurchak said, “especially in Europe where the game is like a religion. It’s fun to be a part of the ups and downs of a team.”

Regardless of how soccer became popular, it is a great way to unite people.

“I enjoy watching a game that is played everywhere in the world,” Zsido said, “and I think it is amazing that a game can bring every nation together.”