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Institute for International Journalism Volume 7 Issue 1 GlobalE.W. Scripps School of Journalism Spotlight

Natal

Salvador

Sao Paulo

WORLD CUP SPECIAL EDITION BrAzilJune/July 2014 Global Spotlight E.W. Scripps School of Journalism, Ohio University

June/July 2014, Vol. 7 Issue 1 t AN INTERN’S PERSPECTIVE ON WEEK ONE Bem vindo au Brasil Intern’s Reflections... Editor’s Note “I have had an incredible time as “Interning with U.S. Soccer during By Kevin Noonan Dear Readers, a videographer for the U.S. Soccer the 2014 Cup will First date, first car and first job. Most of life’s Federation. While in Brazil, I definitely be an experience difficult There is only one word to describe the World Cup, Brazil, milestone moments are categorized in firsts; the filmed and edited videos of press the U.S. Soccer Federation, and seven Ohio University stu- World Cup is no exception. to top. Plunging myself farther into dent interns: Passion. This summer internship program with For seven university students, it is hard to conferences of Head Coach Jurgen the world of soccer, and into the the USFF communication team began as an ambitious dream elaborate on some of the more defining moments Klinsmann and the team, training, real world of PR journalism while in my mind more than two years ago. But with the help of of our lives. For all we know, most of them are yet soccer fans from all over the world scary at first, turned into an ex- Neil Buethe, the USFF director of communications, my dream to come. We are quickly learning, however, that showing their love for the sport perience of a lifetime. The month teamwork is of the utmost importance to having became a reality after a year of persistence, dedication, and a and huge events such as Fan Fest. success. ended too quickly. From press little sweet talking via email, phone and finally in person. While John Brooks or DeAndre Yedlin are not The memories and connections I conferences to watching practice After an intense interview and selection process by Neil, taking courses in Scripps 111, and Katie Foglia and have made while covering the 2014 to writing feature articles that ap- seven Scripps College of Communication students were Carl Fonticella are not taking the pitch to take on World Cup will last me a lifetime! peared on the U.S. Soccer website choosen to intern during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. The Brieanna Charlebois the likes of Ghana, Portugal and , the Katy Andersen I cannot thank the U.S. Soccer to actually attending games inside students had a variety of skill sets and each contributed in different ways. Neil assigned experience of having new teammates at a World each student to a particular role on the communications team: one assistant press officer, Federation enough for giving me of the arena, there was never a dull Cup ties together even the most unlikely strangers. such an amazing opportunity!” one photographer, one videographer, two media program assistants and two writers. For the 2014 FIFA World Cup, the U.S. Men’s moment. I am already planning to Based in São Paulo, Brazil, the U.S. Men’s National Team trained at Centro de Trein- be in attendance in 2018, National Team features just six players who have “A firsthand account of what hap- amento da Barra Funda, the training ground for the São Paulo Futebol Clube. We spent the previous World Cup experience. That means for cheering the U.S. MNT on once majority of our days at the training facility, where media availability was held most every 17 individuals, the need to prepare without prior pens when rain almost stops people again. #IStillBelieve” day while the team was not in-venue for games. experience is a reality. from getting to a World Cup game, In the following pages, you are invited to share a glimpse into the World Cup experi- As far as the journalism students are concerned, and what they’ll do to get there any- ence with photographs and stories (many of which were published on www.ussoccer.com) none of us have any World Cup experience, or for way.” about the passion and excitement surrounding this global event. that matter, any experience with with one another. Thank you for taking the time to read and appreciate the hard work and effort put forth We are learning to bond, work as a team and “My time as an intern for the U.S. represent others and ourselves by only the highest by each intern. Soccer Federation during the 2014 of standards. World Cup was an incredible learn- Sincerely, These basic principles that dictate the success of Dr. Ashley D. Furrow the U.S. MNT in Brazil define the success of us, the ing experience and helped me grow U.S. Soccer Federation staff and the national media. professionally as well as personal- Perhaps the most important trait is absolute con- ly. I enjoyed working closely with fidence in one another to have your back in a time Devin Ellis the staff and players, and knowing of need. that I was part of a larger team. The As journalists of varying disciplines, we tend to “My experience in Brazil and with want absolute control over whatever we do. Doing most rewarding part of the intern- it all at the World Cup is not only logistically im- the U.S. MNT completely opened ship was interviewing the traveling Global Spotlight Staff possible, but will drive even the most dedicated to my eyes to a new professional and fans and writing stories that cap- Advisors Videographer insanity. cultural environment. I now enter Katie Foglia tured their passion, love and sup- Keely Davin Katy Andersen While most teams would love to have a Clint the job market feeling confident in port for the game. I cannot thank Dempsey or a Tim Howard, every team needs a Kyle my abilities to work in this field due Neil Buethe, U.S. Soccer, Dr. Ash- Dr. Ashley D. Furrow Beckerman or a Brad Davis. Making spreadsheets, to the tasks and responsibilities I passing out flyers and transcribing press confer- ley Furrow and the Scripps School Julian Moura-Busquets Designers was given during this internship. ences do not call for headlines, but they are a must of Journalism enough for this op- Dr. Yusuf Kalyango Jr. Carl Fonticella for cohesiveness between the varieties of groups in- This experience will be one I will portunity.” Dr. Ashley D. Furrow teracting here in São Paulo. remember fondly for the rest of my Editor-in-Chief As students, we are realizing that we won’t al- life.” ways be featured in the starting eleven and we won’t Dr. Ashley D. Furrow always make the glamorous plays, but we all must Kevin Noonan make key defensive clearances and be ready to serve “Interning as a photographer “I honestly could not have asked as a spark in the second half. Contributing Writers Adapting to new roles and being flexible with with U.S. Soccer this summer was for a better experience interning Brieanna Charlebois what needs to be done has allowed us to develop incredible not only from a photo with US Soccer. Just finishing Devin Ellis into more complete journalists and people. Just as standpoint but I can also say that my freshman year, I never would Fabian Johnson can find success playing in a defen- I experienced the World Cup in have imagined I would travel to Katie Foglia sive or midfield role, I’m learning to have success in Carl Fonticella Brazil. Many thanks to everyone Brazil to cover a World Cup and I managing tasks and managing personalities. involved in getting OU students am so incredibly thankful for this Kevin Noonan With the opening game of Brazil-Croatia just hours away, the work has only begun. Some will be the opportunity to intern with U.S. oppourtunity. I had the chance Marisa Salopek full of energy and some will tire. Challenges and dif- Soccer!” to meet and get to know so many ficulties are all but assured. It is in helping one an- talented journalists and people Photographs Courtesy of other recover from these challenges and difficulties that have helped me so much.” that will determine if the seven of us will make it out Carl Fonticella of the group stage. Carl Fonticella Marisa Salopek 2|Global Spotlight IIJ @ OU 2014 Global Spotlight IIJ @ OU 2014|3 Brazil Bobcats Take on New Jersey By Brieanna Charlebois up for the post-game press conference. With the trip to On Friday, May 30, the group of Bobcat interns chosen Brazil approaching quickly, we had to also make a trip to by the U.S. Soccer Federation (USFF) traveled down to Washington, DC, to collect our passports and visas from New Jersey in order to meet the Brazilian Embassy. the team and the USSF staff Even though we arrived in and to volunteer during the DC at 11:30 p.m. and were U.S. Men National Team’s scheduled to leave the following (U.S. MNT) friendly against morning, a few of us decided to Turkey on Sunday, June 1. do a night tour of the Parliament This group of seven buildings, including the White included Carl Fonticella House, Washington Memorial (photojournalist), Katy and the Lincoln Memorial. The Andersen (videographer), added benefit of this adventure Katie Foglia (writer), Devin was there was absolutely no Ellis (writer), Kevin Noonan traffic at 2 a.m. on a Monday. (Assistant Press Officer), After DC, we returned home for Marisa Salopek and Brieanna a few days. Charlebois (PR /Assistant We are now officially interning media program managers). in . New Jersey was The few days spent in definitely an experience, and New Jersey were eventful a taste for what to expect once My Time as a Photographer with the U.S. MNT to say the least! Early the our real jobs begin in São Paulo. next morning, our group reported to Red Bull Arena to Traveling to training and games, covering the events, and By Carl Fonticella photos and photo galleries published during my time in watch the U.S. MNT practice and to meet the members staying/working in the media hotel, each of us is bound When I took my first photography class about four Brazil. of the media program we would be working with over the to gain an exponential amount of job experience and give years ago, never did I think I would eventually study Photographing the team has been a surreal experience. following month in Brazil. us a taste for the real world post-Ohio University. photojournalism in college. Another thought that never Growing up, the players were only people that you got After the open practice, a few of the players as well as crossed my mind when I arrived at college was that after to see on TV and if you were lucky enough to get tickets head coach, Jurgen Klinsmann, signed autographs for my freshman year, I would get the opportunity to trav- to a game, you would see them from afar. I’ve not only eager fans who had come to view the training session. The el with fellow Ohio University students to Brazil to work photographed the team during a game, but during Turkish team held a press conference later that afternoon. with the U.S. Soccer Federation during the 2014 FIFA practice and have gotten to be up close and personal with However, because the team had a lot of coverage the day World Cup. players during interviews and during team lunches. I’ve before, media availability was limited. While most of the students on the trip are journalism still not gotten used to going to the training ground and Because of this, we got the afternoon and evening off, majors, I am the only photographer. I have been working turning the corner only to see Tim Howard or Graham and decided to take a trip into New York , which was under sports photographer John Todd since our trip Zusi walk by. only 15 minutes away from our hotel. We drove into the to New Jersey for the team’s friendly against Turkey in If someone were to have told me in the fall that when city with Katy A. behind the wheel. After parking, we early June, and my experience has been nothing short of the year ended I would start preparing to travel not only bought a subway pass and did a quick tour of the city. This a dream come true. to Brazil but to travel to the World Cup, I would have included Ground Zero, Central and Times Square. Upon our arrival at Red Bull Arena, we got to walk into laughed in their face. Even in my wildest dreams I didn’t After eating dinner in Times Square, it was late so we the stadium and meet some media members we would think that I would get the opportunity to photograph an took the subway back to the car. Leaving the city was see again in Brazil. Later, we went pitch side to watch OU football game as a freshman, so going to the World much quicker at 11:30 p.m. than earlier that afternoon. practice but I was sent to meet John Todd, the man I Cup was not even a gleam in my eye. Busy city traffic is unquestionably minimized at night would work with almost every day. On this roller coaster of a trip in Brazil, I’ve met and this came in handy a few times on the trip. Nervous, I didn’t know what he would tell me. Like a people who work for the Washington Post, New York On the morning of the friendly, we arrived at the arena true photographer, he told me to get out my camera and Times, Sports Illustrated and have met really cool sports around 9 a.m. to report for a press meeting and after we go start shooting. I knew that photographing training photographers from the Associated Press and Getty were able to watch/cover the game. We were given a full- was going to be a responsibility in Brazil but I thought I Images. access press credential. However, Katy A. and Carl were would watch practice with the other interns. Working with U.S. Soccer has been a dream come given the opportunity to shoot the game alongside the What he told me next would shock me further; I was true; I get to photograph their training with more access field. They both did a fantastic job and Carl even took a told I would receive a full-access press credential for than the journalists/photographers mentioned above. photo that would soon appear on the U.S. Soccer website. the game. I photographed the game and had a photo of My experience working with the U.S. Soccer Federation The U.S. edged Turkey 2-1. Fabian Johnson’s goal celebration published as the cover this summer has been something memorable, and I will After the game, we helped manage the media and set photo on the U.S. Soccer website and have had multiple cherish the memories I’ve made for the rest of my life. 4|Global Spotlight IIJ @ OU 2014 Global Spotlight IIJ @ OU 2014 |5 Sao Paulo A View from The Outside: Markets and Keepsakes By Devin Ellis events. At the beginning of “Pulp Fiction,” Jules (Samuel L. Jackson) In our first trip to a grocery store in São Paulo, I was trying tells his partner-in-crime Vincent (John Travolta) that the best to find some bottled for my hotel room. An elderly part about other countries is the little differences. He then woman next to me noticed my confusion and said something continues this famous dialogue talking about the differences to me in Portuguese that I didn’t understand. between fast food restaurants in other countries. “Aqua?” I said inquisitively, after a moment of staring I have to agree with the first part of that whole heartedly. blankly at her. However, for me, it’s always been the differences between The old woman flashed a big smile my way. She had one convenience stores and grocery stores that catch my eye. of those old faces you could tell was wrinkled by thousands Buildings and cathedrals are always impressive spectacles to of smiles. She spoke to me in Portuguese again, but this time behold, and anyone who knows me knows that I love trying walked away, gesturing for me to follow. When she came to new food. Yet, browsing through the impulse-buy junk food the next row over, she pointed at some jugs and bottles where section of foreign convenience stores, I see a side of the people the water was kept. FIFA Fan Fest provides entertainment, that is similar to my country, but little in different ways. It was a little moment, but one that stuck with me, and one It’s these quaint little differences, like a green Kit-Kat bar or that embodies the helpful and kind of the Brazilian brings fans from various nations together “American” flavored chips that help me relate to the people people we’ve met so far on our trip. whose country I’m visiting the best, odd as that may sound. Though the brand of water I bought is quite common down Photo & Story By Marisa Salopek “At home, we would go to the pub. We’re not quite so I’ve always been a sentimentalist in this way when it comes here, I still kept the wrapper so that I can remember the kind- Streets filled with yellow and green jerseys, the blaring musical or dance-like,” Davies said. “Less horns, more to objects and the meanings they hold, particularly everyday ness of this old lady, and the people of Brazil, have showed me cry of horns and vuvuzelas, and a feeling of community alcohol. More drinking, less outdoors. The weather is objects. I have collections of coins, wrappers, and bottles on my trip this summer. amongst fans helped kick off the opening day of the not quite the same in the UK so we don’t have the same from all the countries I’ve visited, collections I still add to. “Aqua,” she said definitively, and then smiled so hugely that World Cup in Brazil. experience.” Often these things are keepsakes of fond memories or notable her dentures almost fell out. Fans gathered from all over the world for FIFA Fan Fans are exposed to many people who support Fest in São Paulo, Brazil. The public event, offered different teams. Though some could see this as a in all 12 host , provides an atmosphere for fan potential problem, many fans use the event as a bonding entertainment while displaying broadcasts of all experience. matches throughout the World Cup. Rodrigo Sola, 25, from Salta, Argentina, looks forward Bret Johnson, 26, from Orange County, Calif., feels a to meeting people from all over the world. He feels sense of community with surrounding fans in Brazil as a sense of community during the World Cup in that, opposed to pre-game events held in the U.S. despite the country any fan is from, they are friends. “I’ve done American college football, but the thing “My surprise here was that the people here are very about over here is that everyone is in a great mood no nice to Argentine people,” he said. “Argentina and Brazil matter what part of the world you’re from,” Johnson have a rivalry from history. We come here, and people said. “For example, I’m from California and UCLA and are nice and don’t have any problem. It’s incredible that USC people do not like each other. Here, I have a great people join us.” time with Mexicans and . No one is upset, and Sola described that inside Argentina, there are everyone is just on the same page and everyone’s happy differences among the local teams, but during the World just to be here.” Cup it is like a huge family. FIFA Fan Fest began in 2006 and is a relatively new “We don’t know a lot of the people here, but we shine experience for many spectators. The event also serves as together because they are from Argentina,” Sola said. a unique atmosphere for those from different countries “I don’t mind if they’re from River Plate, Boca Juniors, who are not accustomed to the tailgating environment. Independiente, I don’t mind. We shine together.” Michael Davies, 25, from London, , attended FIFA Fan Fest will continue to broadcast matches the World Cup in in 1998. He explained that throughout the World Cup in the 12 host cities and is pre-game events in London share few similarities to the free and open to the public. experience in Brazil. 6|Global Spotlight IIJ @ OU 2014 Global Spotlight IIJ @ OU 2014|7 8|Global Spotlight IIJ @ OU 2014 Global Spotlight IIJ @ OU 2014|9 Natal better for the U.S. Men’s National Team. So, I think it will continue to I Believe That We Will Win progress and we’ll make it farther and farther every year.” By Katie Foglia & Kevin Noonan for the first time. took us 62 years to get here.” For the past two World Cups, Molinski To the 2,700 U.S. soccer fans in “For me, to see the support, the “To come to Brazil is just fantastic, has been hinting to his mom that they attendance at Fan HQ in Natal, fanfare and the number of people and to come to Brazil for soccer is should go, and finally that dream Brazil, believing was half the battle. that are traveling, not even here to even better,” added Joe Pelliccia. became a reality. Jordan and his mother, The recurring sentiment of the Brazil, but even across the United An event like this, complete with Denise Manker, are experiencing their first World Cup together. evening, and popular American States,” he said. “It’s great to see the Budweiser, bright lights, red, white “It’s really great for a number of Outlaws chant, was “I believe that we growth of the sport, not only locally, and blue banners and a bumping reasons,” Manker said. “Going out will win.” The traveling USMNT fans but globally.” dance floor with a live DJ would even of the U.S. is a completely different gathered in the small coastal city in Stokes and his wife, Leah, have impress Uncle Sam. To prepare the experience, and Brazil is a very unique hopes that their dreams would soon tickets to all three of the USMNT masses, it takes a few strong voices country. Getting to really see the become a reality. group stage games. They plan to get and a lot of willpower to create a fully premiere soccer in the world is just an With the USA’s much-anticipated tickets to other games including American atmosphere. amazing experience, and being able to World Cup opener hours away, the vs. and vs. Greece Tom Santos was one of a handful support the U.S. team is fabulous, so U.S. Soccer Federation hosted the among a few others. Provided the of visionaries behind this large we’re really excited to be here.” event to rally the troops the night U.S. advances, Stokes plans to call off undertaking of fun fan festivities. Although some fans and their fami- lies are experiencing the World Cup for before entering Arena Das Dunas sick from work and follow the team. His experience in entertainment, the first time, Tanya Keith’s family has “I love spending time with my wife knowledge of the country and and leading the faithful fans into Pilgrimage to Brazil soccer in their blood. It all started after battle against the Black Stars. and meeting other people, young and understanding of soccer in the States she watched U.S. versus Germany in It’s no secret that Ghana will test old, throwing back a few cocktails made him an ideal candidate for the By Katie Foglia wants to be a professional soccer player, 1993 and fell in love with the sport. the USMNT in a match that will set and just talking about possibilities,” job. When it comes to the World Cup, there hopefully for the USMNT, when he grows She went to the 1994 World Cup and the tone for how the group stage Stokes said. “We haven’t lost a game “I think the event went perfectly. I is one thing that the USMNT and its up. has been following the USMNT ever will evolve for both countries. Past yet.” see everybody enjoying it,” he said. traveling fans have in common – they “We play a lot and obviously the U.S. since. The mega soccer fan just pub- results against the Ghanaians may For some younger fans, the “We wanted Americans to feel secure both want to experience the tournament team’s success goes a long way in getting lished a book “Passionate Soccer Love,” cause some to be skeptical, but no U.S. going to the World Cup is a and have a spot where they could with their family. While goalkeeper Tim kids excited about the game,” Adams said. which chronicles her journey as a fan Howard’s dad cheers for his son from He remembers what it was like for U.S. matter the opposition, one thing quadrennial ritual, but for others, it is enjoy it and not care about anything over the past 20 years. the stands, another father-son duo is fans to be few and far between. “It’s all about my history as a support- that remains constant is the undying a pleasant surprise each year that the other than the party.” experiencing the game in a different way. “In 1998, U.S., Iran, the stadium was er,” she said. “It’s amazing to be a part American persistence proven by the U.S. qualifies. Joe and Pat Pelliccia, And, based on the amounts of This is Patrick Adams’ fifth World Cup, dominated by Iranian fans and we lost, of this supporter movement now, hav- fans’ loyalty and the team’s desire to a retired couple from Lewiston- laughter, cheers and camaraderie but for him, Brazil is unique because 2 to 1, and it was a pretty miserable ing been there when there weren’t any rewrite history. Auburn, Maine, are thrilled to amongst the fans in attendance, this time he brought his 8-year-old son experience as a U.S. fan,” he said. “Eight supporters and nobody was chanting, For Brice Stokes, a Major League witness their first World Cup. the conviction of winning was Benjamin. Adams is a founding member years later in Germany, the fan support and now it’s just incredible. It’s such a Soccer season ticket holder, the “It is amazing because as we talk to contagious. of the U.S. Fan Club, and now he and was much better. I’d say 25 percent of the good feeling. It almost brings a tear to growth of the game in the U.S. is all these kids for some of them, it is their “We believe that we will win,” his son are members in the supporters stadium was U.S. fans, and then of course my eye when I see a full stadium of U.S. the optimism he needs. So much so second World Cup,” Pat Pelliccia Santos said. “That’s how we should group American Outlaws as well. This is in South , half the stadium or more soccer fans because when I started fol- that he decided to venture to Brazil said. “We never dreamed of doing end this. I say we should win against his son’s first World Cup, and he wants to was U.S. fans, so we can’t wait to get to lowing, you couldn’t even get a full sec- make it count. the stadium today to see the support.” to witness the World Cup in person something like this at their age. It Ghana, and hopefully we will win.” tion of supporters.” “I tell my son all the time, when I was Another young soccer fan could not The Des Moines, Iowa, mom is happy a kid, you couldn’t wake up and watch contain his excitement about being in to be here with her family. She and hus- soccer on TV like we do on Saturday Brazil for the World Cup. band Doug Jotzke have two children, mornings,” Adams said. “He shouldn’t “I’ve always loved soccer and this is one Aviva and Raphael. She hopes that her take it for granted that he can find it on of the best experiences I will probably ever love of soccer will teach her children three channels pretty much any time.” have,” said 15-year-old Jordan Molinski. important life lessons and values. The Adams’ are Major League Soccer “I’d love to go to more World Cups. I’m “Obviously, soccer is the number one fans and support FC Dallas and the New really excited to see the U.S. play.” important thing in our family,” she said. York Red Bulls. But being in Brazil, a The Davis, Calif., native has played “We want them to know that following country where soccer is embedded into soccer since he was five years old and is your adventure and doing what you love the culture, is different. thrilled to be in Brazil. is just as important as making a good “The energy is fantastic and the “This is all I’ve ever known,” Molinski living and being a good person. That Brazilians have been really good hosts, so said. “I’ve known the U.S. as pretty you should live your life with passion, we’re enjoying it immensely,” he said. reasonably good at soccer, but I think as preferably for soccer.” Benjamin plays soccer with his dad and it’s progressed, it’s gotten better and 10|Global Spotlight IIJ @ OU 2014 Global Spotlight IIJ @ OU 2014|11 Eventually, the cheering stopped and the crowd settled. Ghana had knocked the USMNT out of the 2006 and 2010 There was a lot of time left. The whole game changed from World Cups. This time the U.S. came out on top. My first World Cup soccer match there. Dempsey scoring so quickly was not the plan. Now what It all happened so fast and I was sad to walk out of the By Katie Foglia would come in handy in Brazil). do we do? Now how are we suppose to feel? Is it too soon to get stadium. Even though all I have is the memory, I will always I’ve always been a dreamer. Feet on the ground, head in the But one page of my journal stood out among the rest. It was excited about the possibility of actually winning this game? remember sharing that moment with Ashley, Carl and Kevin, clouds. So, it’s only natural that I’ve had thoughts about this the second page of the book, blue smudged ink, dated June 10, I got so swept up in my questions, but continued to try and and I will never forget how being at the game and cheering on moment for most of my life. Expectations of what it would look 2010. It was a list of things I want to do and places I want to see pause and look around to soak it all in. the U.S. made me feel. and smell and sound and taste like, and how it would make me in my lifetime. The first thing on the list: “Go to a World Cup The stadium looked so new, and the different shades of the The moment might be over, but I will always have the memory. feel. soccer game.” blue plastic seats really popped out. There was a good mix I wrote down all of my thoughts, feelings and emotions after But, now that’s it’s over, it seems like a snapshot. One still Reading that line a few days before departing for São Paulo of U.S., Ghana and Brazil fans in the crowd. Yes, at all of the the game in my tattered travel journal. Just another new page frame from 22 years worth of memories, each one better than sent chills down my spine. I’ve written in that book a lot since, games, Brazil fans with random the last. It flashes for a few seconds, and then it’s gone. yes, but for some reason I have not read that front page since I come, wear their thoughts It seems simple to replay it in your head, going over each wrote it almost exactly four years ago. yellow jerseys scribbled onto step slowly and remembering more and more as the days go These things don’t just happen. I’m a strong believer in will and mix into the the pages in ink. by. Walking off of the bus, meandering through the crowd power, hard work, humility and luck. My being an intern for the crowds. One day I will with sweaty fingers clutching the ticket and always keeping U.S. Soccer Federation in Brazil for the 2014 World Cup was When Ghana look back and one eye on the destination. a combination of all of those scored, the West be able to read Eyes darting to every moving things. African fans my thoughts object, trying to see everything Walking into the World screamed and on what it was in fear that if you blink, it will Cup stadium and sitting in erupted in cheers like to go to all be over. the blue seats next to the that filled the my first World After years of thinking about USAvGHA friends and family of the stadium. The Cup soccer it, watching it, playing it and players felt incredible. I’ve section we were in game, and I even writing about it, I was finally walking inside a World Cup never been more proud to wear red, white and blue than I was fell quiet. I began will remember stadium. Arena das Dunas in Natal, Brazil, to be exact. I was on that day. The Scripps contingent, Dr. Ashley Furrow, Kevin to remember how that the seats going to watch the USMNT play Ghana, the team that knocked Noonan, Carl Fonticella and I all were in awe of the inside of hot it was and in the stadium them out of the Round of 16 four years ago. the stadium. how I had been were different I watched it. Four years ago, I was 18 and had just graduated We took a few pictures together and could not believe we sweating most shades of blue, from high school. Now, I’m 22 years old and just graduated were actually there. It seems like just yesterday that we were all of the day. The the smell of beer from college. Four years is such an insignificant amount of time sitting in conference chairs in Athens, Ohio, talking about how air felt warm and surrounded us, in the long run, but for now, it is noteworthy. excited we were to go to a game. the scent of beer floated through the stadium. Again, my mind the taste of salty sweat on my dry lips and the refreshing warm One of the many things I found in the boxes of my belongings As the kickoff time approached, I began to get antsy. I was began to wonder. water. And, of course, I will always remember how it made me after moving back home after graduation was my travel looking around and hearing all of the “U.S.A.” and “I believe The water I bought felt warm on my lips, but quenched my feel excited, proud, nervous, happy, sad, scared and most of all journal. It’s seen better days. Ink marks on the cover, napkins that we will win” chants and my confidence level began to boost. thirst. I could feel my jaw clenching and fingers tightening. The grateful. and papers with names of songs and addresses of cafes tucked After the guys marched out in a single fine line, we sang (read: nerves in the U.S. crowd were palpable. The game was tied, 1-1, Not everyone who writes down in their journal that they inside random pages and of course, my serious (read: hilarious) screamed) the National Anthem and then it was officially game with four minutes left. But, then, John Brooks headed the ball would like to go to a World Cup soccer match gets to actually comments and recounts of my adventures in Costa Rica, Mexico, time. I’ve never jumped up and down, yelled and high-fived into the net and gave the U.S. team the lead it needed. go. I know I am one of the lucky ones. But I also know that I will The Dominican Republic, and the Galapagos Islands. strangers more in my life than when captain Clint Dempsey Once again, we all jumped up and went crazy in the crowd. continue to keep dreaming and make sure that this won’t be my It was interesting for me to read about my thoughts on the scored his sensational goal less than a minute into the game. We all knew that we just had to hold that lead for four more first and only World Cup soccer experience. I will be back. It previous trips with family, friends and strangers, living life and Our section erupted in a roar and beer and belongings went minutes, and it would all be over. Finally, the whistle blew and might not be in 2018, but I will be back. learning how to survive in new surroundings (all skills that flying into the air. the win was official. The victory tasted sweet, especially since

12|Global Spotlight IIJ @ OU 2014 Global Spotlight IIJ @ OU 2014|13 Manaus Trailing only Brazil, the United States purchased more tickets to World Cup games than any other nation and the USAvPOR: It’s Not Over Yet turnout to the event at the U.S. FanHQ Photo & Story By Brieanna Charlebois the red, yellow and green of Portugal. party was a clear reflection of this. With more than 1,400 fans in attendance, large The heat of the Amazon was in full swing on June 22 when The first half ended with Portugal leading 1-0. Fans scurried crowds of patient fans waited to join in more than 40,000 football fans gathered at the Arena da in attempt to get snacks and beer before the second half began, the excitement and wrapped around the Amazonia in Manaus, Brazil, to watch the USA v. Portugal while others seized this opportunity to get some pictures in the building. match. The sun bore down on the excited audience, the stadium. By 10 p.m., the hall was filled to smell of beer and popcorn overbearing any other. With the second half underway, USA fans remained hopeful capacity and chants of pride as well as a The sun began to set as the players warmed up for the that their team will score and turn the game around. In the choir of fans singing the national anthem game. The stadium was filled with various costumes and 62nd minute, Jermaine Jones broke through with an impressive could be heard far outside the venue. A flags worn in support of both teams. Walking around be- strike outside of the 18-yard box. USA equalized and the stands massive screen, first showing the Nigeria fore the start of the match, it was difficult to decide what erupted with excitement. Beer and soda went flying across the vs. Bosnia match, displayed highlight to look at—each outfit seemingly outdoing the previous. seats and onto fellow fans. But no one was bothered. The morale clips of all the USMNT players while a DJ played dance . A common theme while going to these events throughout the shifted, and the U.S. now had the advantage and the confidence. One group of fans that helped bring trip was harmony. Fans from all over the world came together, Captain Clint Dempsey followed suit just after the 80-minute spirit and energy were the American arguing playfully about who would win and who had the better mark. He effortlessly got his body around the ball, used his chest Outlaws, the unofficial U.S. MNT team. to easily slide the ball past the keeper and into the back of the The New American Dream supporters group dedicated to uniting When opening ceremonies rolled around, the familiar sound net. and strengthening the U.S. fan base. By Brieanna Charlebois & Marisa Salopek want to play soccer and you see little kids of cameras clicking and of cheering fans erupted throughout the Tim Howard holding the team together throughout the entire American Outlaw Darrell Balzina has After the 2-1 victory over Ghana last coming to events like today, being on entire stadium. When “The Star-Spangled Banner came on the match looked flawless at the back. As the 90-minute mark ap- been an avid supporter of the U.S. MNT week, many hollering U.S. fans traveled their Dad’s shoulders just screaming and loud speakers, every person in the section joined in like a cho- proached and passed, two minutes of extra time were added. for years and was one of 50 Outlaws from Natal and gathered in Manaus at that’s something that you know these rus belting the lyrics loudly and proudly. Hearts broke across the U.S. in the final moments of the game that followed the team to the Fan HQ party hosted by the U.S. Soc- kids are going to take away with them,” For the next 90 minutes, the U.S. MNT battled in the efforts as Ronaldo was able to serve a perfectly aimed ball into Varela, in 2010. At the time, only 50 people cer Federation in the hopes that the USA Santos said. “They are going to take that went to the event as part of their group. to score, win and advance past the group stage. With players who used his head to hit the ball past Howard. will beat Portugal on Sunday and survive back to the United States, and they are Just four short years later, when the no doubt feeling pressure to perform, the USA fan base felt Looks of disbelief and disappointment spread across the faces the so-called “Group of Death.” going to love it. It’s great as a Brazilian group traveled to Brazil, their number the same way. Chants and hollering encompassed the stadium of the U.S. MNT and were mirrored by U.S. fans. The game end- With colorful ribbons littering the ceil- and having our number one sport as multiplied to more than 500 animated throughout the whole match in the efforts to keep the players’ ed with a 2-2 tie, but it felt like a loss from the U.S. as the final ing and U.S. signs and banners shower- soccer to see people doing this is really and enthusiastic fans. group match would determine the fates of all four teams in the ing the walls and stage, fans enjoyed the good and I appreciate it.” morale high. “Then, you go to World Cup qualifying evening with food and drinks, getting For Santos, targeting a young audience The game began and the excitement only increased. Even “Group of Death.” matches and you see more and more in the mood to cheer on their favorite today will ensure an invested interest in though Portugal scored after only 12 minutes of play, the crowd For those of us lucky enough to attend the match, the 90-min- support as you go into each match so you U.S. MNT players. The well-known U.S. the future. was relentless. The team was playing well and the atmosphere ute event was life changing. The excitement and magnitude of can see its growing just as far as following chant, “I BELIEVE THAT WE WILL The Brazil World Cup is many U.S. fans was ideal for American fans. The ratio was overbearing. Look- the tournament was overwhelming and became a memory that your team, following the U.S. just in the WIN. I BELIEVE THAT WE WILL WIN” first time in attendance. Jeff Burk, 41, ing across the stadium, red, white and blue easily overpowered would be fover cherished. States, just in other areas of CONCACAF is easily heard above all others at the from Philadelphia, has seen a growth in where their crowds are getting larger FanHQ party in Manaus on matchday soccer in more of a personal way. Playing too,” Balzina said. “That’s the one big minus-one. as a kid and having parents that never thing from going to South Africa to this, For those unable to attend, GloboTV played, Burk remembers broadcasts of it’s a whole different story.” . gave a live spot at the venue that was games in 1990 and recalls the TV stations American Outlaw Zach Garza believes aired to millions across the world. With cutting out during a play, as they did not the U.S. is moving in the right direction high spirits, an optimistic, cheerful tone know how to broadcast a game. Now, in gaining more notoriety for the game was set early and spread to the Arena da with his son playing, he sees more of a and this is the best American team that Amazonia Sunday evening. growth and general knowledge of the has been to a World Cup. Tom Santos, 26, from Recife, Brazil, sport throughout the country. “I think the sport has come back into organized the Fan HQ parties throughout “They get it; they understand,” Burk the foreground for respectable sports. I the first round of the World Cup. He said. “When I first started going to U.S. think people are starting to deviate from believes that the decision to organize the soccer matches, they didn’t know when the big four that were basketball, hockey, event was simple, in that he wanted to the right time was to cheer, they didn’t football and baseball,” Garza said. “We do it to help out U.S. Soccer and its fan know how to cheer, they cheered like are in a very good place right now. We base. He was excited to see the event at they were at an American football game finally beat Ghana. USA is finally staking full capacity with fans enjoying the party or a baseball game. Now, the atmosphere their claim on the global scale. I think its in a safe environment. is great, it’s very European. They get it; just going to grow.” “You see families of guys and girls that it’s awesome.”

14|Global Spotlight IIJ @ OU 2014 Global Spotlight IIJ @ OU 2014 |15 Recife Will Ferrell surprises U.S. fans at Fan HQ party By Katie Foglia think Will Ferrell is a class act, and for him to come all For USMNT fans and soccer supporters across the this way here and show his support really shows how far States, there have been more than enough reasons to cel- soccer has come in the country.” ebrate since the 2014 FIFA World Cup kicked off on June The celebration was twice as nice for newly married 12. After grabbing four points in the first two games, all couple, Austin and Morgan Kelley. The Seattle pair is in eyes were on the USA’s third, and perhaps most import- Brazil for their first World Cup, but it is also a special trip ant, match of the group stage against Germany. for another reason: it is their honeymoon. They dated for Although the U.S. ultimately lost 1-0 to Germany, the six years before recently tying the knot. low scoring result saw the team out of the group stage and They planned to go to the party in Natal, but their flights onto the Round of 16, which was reason to rejoice. This is were delayed. After the USA-Ghana game, the couple the first occasion that the U.S. has advanced to the Round spent some time in the sun and sand in smaller beach of 16 in consecutive FIFA World Cups. , came to Recife to watch the U.S. versus Germa- Fans across the 50 states are backing the dream of ad- ny game and were excited to experience the infamous fan vancing in the tournament and challenging for the FIFA party and meet other traveling supporters. World Cup Trophy. The U.S. fan presence on the ground “Being able to combine everybody together in one spot in Brazil is equally stunning. Despite torrential rainfall, before the pregame festivities is just awesome,” Mrs. Kel- Arena in Recife was packed with people ley said. “We’ve run into people we’ve seen at the first wearing red, white and blue stars game and met at the first game and and stripes. just making those connections so far With the amount of World Cup from home is really nice.” tickets being purchased by USMNT To Boston Police Officer, Richard supporters, U.S. Soccer took notice “Dic” Donohue, being at the fan par- of the increased fan interest in the ty is being in the company of friends. team and has hosted a Fan HQ par- Attending his first World Cup, he flew ty filled with beer, food, music and a all night and all day, but still came lively, fun crowd on the night before straight to the fan gathering. the games in each city the USA has “It’s great. Food, beer, other peo- USAvGER: The sky is falling played in during the tournament. For ple cheering for America,” he said. “If By Devin Ellis I heard warnings about the tourist mug- hopelessly through the mega-puddles, the team’s final group stage match, you don’t know anybody beforehand, Returning back home to the U.S. I am gings, the sharks and the favelas. Nobody many of which simply float uselessly in the Fan HQ party in Recife brought you’re amongst friends, people you sure I will think of this moment. said squat about the drainage system in the brown water. in extra support to amp up the crowd. get to know, people you get to meet It is 10:30 a.m. in Recife, Brazil, and the city, and right now that’s what’s ailing Some locals from the area have gath- me the most. ered to help push cars. Perhaps they’re To the delight of the masses, U.S. cheering on the same team all under the sky is falling. OK, I have seen rain like this before. In the U.S., we get hit It’s 9:30 a.m. Someone, I don’t look to good Samaritans, perhaps they’re just Soccer Federation President Sunil one flag.” with rain like this all the time, depending see who, says to me in English, “Better trying to make a buck, but it’s a nice sight Gulati introduced newly popular fan icon Teddy Goal- Donohue was injured last April during the manhunt for on where you live. I guess I’ve just never get ready to get wet.” I’m all dressed up to see regardless. sevelt and comedic superstar Will Ferrell. Ferrell, wear- the alleged Boston Marathon bombing suspects. He said seen sewage and drainage systems this in U.S. Soccer gear, clearly going to the Somehow, and I truly have no idea ing a two sizes too small away jersey, joked with the crowd he always wanted to go to a World Cup and finally decided bad before. game — sans a raincoat as I was never how, our bus makes it through. The rain and told them that he was so honored to be playing to- to go for it. Lee Feiner, a guy around my age who much of a Boy Scout. is still beating down. As we turn anoth- morrow. “This is one of those things I’ve always wanted to do, works for Sports Illustrated, taps me on Our bus finally arrives. The traffic is bad er stretch of highway, we finally see the “I’m not gonna lie to you, I’m not in the best shape,” and I guess that has kind of propelled me to say, ‘this year the shoulder and points to a drain out- due to the rain, the driver says apologet- stadium after a three hour travel time. I Ferrell said. “I’m not in soccer shape right now, but I’m is gonna be the year’,” Donohue said. side a window in the hotel lobby we are ically. How could we possibly blame her? get a feeling in my heart that I can only gonna try my best and live up to the spirit of this Ameri- John Hennessey-Niland works at the U.S. Embassy in sitting in. It is spewing up water, adding We get on the road and immediately see describe as a mixture of excitement and what she means. Cars and busses have apprehension. As we get closer to the sta- can team.” Pakistan and has been to every World Cup since 1990. He to the shin-deep deluge. “Why today?” I ask myself. What’s so to jockey for spots on the rain-sloshed dium and see the fans filtering in, see the One fan said he knew there was a special guest coming. was born in Chicago and feels that U.S. fans have been special about today? Today at 1 p.m. is streets like basketball players waiting for U.S. fans all riled up and dressed in red, “I called that Sunil Gulati was gonna be on stage, and he influenced by the soccer mania in Brazil. the U.S. v. Germany game, and maybe my a rebound. It’s bad. white, and blue, the apprehension melts was,” Robert Sagerian said. “But I had no idea that he was “We’ve got spirit, we’re noisy, we’re loud, we’re col- only chance to go to a World Cup game. We get out of the city and it’s even away. going to bring out Will Ferrell.” orful, we’re patriotic, and I think we know our soccer,” Our bus has not even come. It’s 9 a.m. worse. Traffic improves, but the amount The bus stops in the parking lot outside Sagerian, a San Diego resident, said he is happy to see Hennessey-Niland said. “And the world is taking notice. I had heard things about Recife, heard of water sitting on the road worsens. We the stadium. I grin to myself and grab ev- the support and love from the fans. Before, people were like, ‘Ah, the Yanks. They don’t know about its dangers and felt the precau- reach a stretch of road where the water erything I need. I’m ready for the wet, the “I think it really speaks to how far soccer is going, and how to play.’ I think we’ve changed that. We’ve convinced tions of Brazilians in the looks they gave must be more than three feet deep, may- loud, and the aches I know this day will it’s really reaching to everybody in the U.S.,” he said. “I people we know how to play this game and do well.” me when I told them where I was going. be even four. People are pushing cars bring. I’m ready for it all. 16|Global Spotlight IIJ @ OU 2014 Global Spotlight IIJ @ OU 2014|17 Salvador Vai dar tudo certo in R16 By Brieanna Charlebois and Marisa Salopek She attended the England- Uruguay, already purchased a plane ticket to The term “Vai dar tudo certo” is England-Costa Rica, USA-Germany Brasilia in hopes that he will be able used by Brazilian locals to mean “It’ll and Costa Rica- Greece matches. to follow the team there. all work out.” This is what USA fan “It’s a huge deal that we made it to Hope was in the air, as many fans Oscar Choi used to describe the up- the Round of 16. Even though we lost had their Arena Fonte Nova tickets coming challenges that face the U.S. the last game, it was like we still won previously purchased with the confi- MNT as the players head into their because it’s creating history in the dence that the U.S. MNT would ad- Round of 16 game against Belgium. U.S. for this sport and progressing vance to that location. Anyan Owens Choi is not alone. it through to an even high level; now planned his trip to attend the USA vs. More than 1,500 fans supporting the we will gain more popularity; more Germany game and the Round of 16 USA gathered together at Fan HQ in fans.” match. He plans on making an effort Salvador with one familiar thought A few of these fans will be in atten- to follow the team as long as they ad- in mind: “I believe that we will win.” dance for the USA game. However, vance in the tournament. With the event RSVP list maxing out this could easily be coined as a mere “It’s absolutely huge. This is two in less than two hours, excited fans coincidence because most purchased world cups in a row,” he said. “I think arrived early to the event sporting their tickets during the FIFA lottery. this idea with the deep run, with the red, blue and white. Tom Pellet from San Francisco was time-zones, great media coverage, Familiar cheers, hollers and chants given advice by South Africa World high definition everywhere, every- could be easily heard over the boom- Cup fans who told him to go into the thing is just set up that this is going ing sound of the speakers. A giant lottery for the Round of 16 and quar- to catapult soccer everywhere to a banner that read “Uma Nacão. Uma terfinal games. place that it hasn’t been in the States, Equipe.” encompassed the idea of na- “We actually had these tickets before which is where people will care about tional unity with a Brazilian culture we found out it was a U.S. game. We it.” splash. Fans took turns posing next lucked out. We have, what may be, By taking one look at the hundreds to the sign, with their family, friends their second game in Brasilia,” Pellet of fans at the event, this is an easy or strangers who they had just met said. “We got in the lottery months conclusion. USA supporters present USAvBEL but shared a connection with through ago, and we got a quarterfinal game at FanHQ freely share a firm belief the USMNT. and a Round of 16 game and these that the team has proven itself and With the success of fan parties in happened to be the two.” will appear once again on the 2014 Natal, Manaus and Recife, this event Some fans made spontaneous trips World Cup stage. was hastily put into works when the to Salvador for the sole purpose of Oscar Cantu, 29, of San Francisco, news of USA’s advancement was fi- seeing their team play. Trey Porter is another fortunate American soccer nalized. With uncertainty being a from San Antonio, Texas, decided last fan who is impressed and optimis- key factor when purchasing tickets minute after the U.S. MNT advanced tic about the future of the 2014 U.S. for matches after the group stage of that he would buy a ticket to see the squad and is prepared to follow them the tournament, many USA fans’ op- team play at Arena Fonte Nova. around the country if they continue timism was repaid by the success of “I just did everything I could. I got in the tournament. this young American team. here four hours ago, got tickets three “I think it’s amazing. I think that Most individuals bought tickets be- hours ago, so yeah I’m thrilled,” Por- despite what any American will fore the start of the tournament, gam- ter said. “I just got lucky at the last tell you, I don’t think anyone really bling that their team of choice would minute because I wasn’t going to thought they’d get out of the “Group make it through the group stage. come to the World Cup and not get to of Death,” he said. “To see them get Chelsea Glavin, 29, from Vancouver, see them play.” out with such class shows that there Wash., mapped out her entire trip of Like many fans, Porter believes this is something to be said about U.S. teams and cities they would play in World Cup is a huge step forward for Soccer and what we are today.” and booked her plane tickets after. the growth of soccer in America. He

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