Sir Alex Ferguson pretty much summed up the emotions and environment that I experienced this past weekend in Manchester. Basically our entire program got on a train and headed to the city of red bricks for a match and, of course, lots of other shenanigans. Even hours before the game, there were vendors, fans and every other kind of character outside, already anticipating the action. We had a talk with the COO of Manchester United and then took a very American picture in front of the field. It was like one of those times when you go to a sporting event and see 6 year olds from an afterschool program in oversized shirts, grinning with their jagged teeth while standing at ankle level with a basketball or football player - of course, we were those little jabberwocky-mouthed children...
The match itself, Man U vs. Bolton was not really that eventful, as the 1-0 score only changed in the last 10 minutes of the game. But the passion and dedication of the fans was absolutely contagious. Of course I had heard of Manchester United, but I'm sure that I am not on fan status. Surely enough though, I found myself (and the other 40 Americans) chanting along with everyone else, holding our breath when the whistle blew or a player fell, and shouting as the ref blew whistles. Based on the experiences that I've had with both live and televised matches here, I've gotten the sense that a much stronger, more genuine bond exists for Englishmen and their teams than in America, and I really do think it's a good thing.
The next day of our trip, we headed back to the stadium for a tour. This is where the rich history of Manchester United and Old Trafford really sank in. From the formation of teams for community outreach to the devastating Munich crash, there are so many moments in Manchester United's story that make it one of fearless leaders, committed athletes and international heroes.
It's always interesting to go somewhere and really have no preconceived notion of what to expect because everything makes its place in the mind quite naturally. From our absolutely ridiculous tour guide to more solemn moments of the weekend remembering those who have passed, Manchester certainly made an impression on me that was both admirable and refreshing.
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