Before coming to live in Barcelona I was always told that I could not live here for four months without attending one of the Barcelona's incredible soccer games. Not only are thes games a great cultural experience, but Barcelona's team is one of the best in the world. I cannot forget the feeling I got when it was time for me to go and experience my first game. My jaw dropped when I first entered into the futbol stadium. I had already visited the stadium with my Sport and Culture class, yet this time it was different. The stands were filled and overflowing with screaming and cheering fans. When I first arrived at the stadium, other than the large crowd of people I began to notice that the spectators who watch the games look different than the sports fans I have seen in the United States. Rather than wearing a sports jersey, many of the fans were sporting other FC Barcelona apparel such as scarves tied loosely around their neck. After making this quick observation, I found my way to my seats. I feel very lucky that my first opportunity to attend a Barcelona futbol game I had the privilege to sit in the fourth row. The energy from the fans resonated into the players and I was close enough to enjoy the experience up close and personal.
The game that I went to see was FC Barcelona vs. Valencia. The game started off slow and I began to worry that I was not going to have the opportunity to see either team score a goal. Before I spoke too soon Messi scored his first goal. The stands went crazy and it was unlike anything I had ever experienced. The pride of the Barcelona soccer fans filled the entire stadium as people stood up from their seats waiving their arms in the air. Before the fans had time to stop and take a seat, Messi scored two goals immediately following his first. I thought that it was very cool to see many people holding up the Catalan flag in support of their team, while also expressing their proudness of being from Catalonia. From what I have learned throughout my time abroad, I now have a better understanding of the saying " mes que un club." FC Barcelona allows the Catalan people to have the chance to express themselves and enjoy the way in which they differentiate from the rest of Spain. After enjoying this game I look forward to hearing and following the teams history more carefully as they bring themselves closer to becoming Champions. My expectations were high, but my experience at this soccer game was one that I can never forget.
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