BES 4: Organization

Mallory Sturtz

Assignment Four

Organization

Ever since I was a little girl I have been involved in the sport soccer. Starting at the young age of four I played all throughout my childhood and school years. I loved soccer and still do, as it is one of my favorite sports to not only play but watch. When I learned that we would be given the opportunity to participate in a club, I immediately wanted to join a football (soccer) club. My friend Abby, who is also studying abroad, spent last summer in London playing soccer so she was already involved on a team that practiced and played regularly. I had told Abby that I had an interest in soccer so she invited me to play with them. Before I knew it I was going weekly with her to practices and games.

Our team is comprised of very skilled soccer players mostly older than Abby and I. The average age is 25ish and the majorities are men. There are about 5 or so girls on the team when we all show up. Most of the time it is only Abby, Kat, Rachael and myself who attend practices.  My first time attending I didn’t know what to expect. Abby said we played on turf, so I don’t know why but for some reason I pictured an indoor field. Abby told me before hand that we played 6 v.6 typically which is loads of fun. In order to play 6 v.6 a smaller field is recommended unless you absolutely want to die! In order to attend practices we get to travel to what is known as suburbia. We have to take the tube all the way to Watford and then meet up with Tim who then drives us to practice. Watford is in zone 6 so it takes at least a good hour to get out there, so by the time we get home we are typically pretty exhausted. One of my favorite parts about going to soccer is riding in Tim’s car. It is so different and fun sitting and riding on the other side in the car. Once we get there we go through the club house out back into the pitches. There are many “mini” pitches to play in. We typically reserve to field for an hour. One of my favorite times playing so far was in the rain. It was fun getting all sweaty and completely muddy. I like getting to play with Abby because she really gets into it and we always play on opposite teams so that we can shove each other. Sounds mean, but it’s actually really fun to be aggressive but we know it’s all out of good fun.

From this experience I have met many friends. I have learned how “soccer” is played in London. I have really enjoyed getting to know Tim, Crosby, Simon and all the others we play with weekly. My soccer skills have improved and I can’t express how much fun it is to play competitive soccer with a group of people once again! Now I just have to pick a professional English team to support, wish me Luck!