fa*nat*ic

Webster's Encyclopedic Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language defines fanatic as "a person with an extreme and uncritical enthusiasm or zeal as in religion, politics, or sports."

Today was my birthday. I turned 28. My wife wanted to do something special for my birthday other than the typical breakfast in bed or presents of books or toys. She decided on taking me to my first ever professional soccer game in Latin America. I am guessing here, but I believe 90% of the world loves the game of 'futbol.' North Americans have their own brand of corporate sponsored, ad-selling 'futbol.' While the rest of the world enjoys seeing adults play a game that only allows one to use their feet.

I am a fan of sports. I enjoy watching, coaching, and playing. I am even on a soccer team here in Bogota. I am a fan. I am in two fantasy football leagues and two weekly pick'em leagues. I follow my favorite teams and scorn the hated rivals. But my eyes were opened today when I attended a Millionarios-Quindio soccer game. I hesitated at the chance to go. Last year I was invited to a similar game by some of my students. I had a prior arrangement and couldn't make it. I later found out that a man was beat to death because he was the wrong fan sitting in the wrong section, and apparently he said the wrong thing.

Liz is happy that she surprised me with the tickets. And off we go to the game with the knowledge that we are going to be surrounded by fanatics. We made sure to wear neutral colors to the game. It was a wonderful time. The game began without a single incident. It could have been the riot police posted in the stands and on the field that prevented the crowd from becoming rowdy. However, during the half time show, a fight breaks out and then comes the fun. Liz and I are sitting in box seats so we have a great view of the field and the fight in the cheap seats. Apparently, someone took offense to the score and the taunts. Not only were the police breaking things up, but the entire stadium starts chanting, whistling and booing. It seemed to be part of the entertainment. Wow, what a game.

Millionarios won 1-0 and the crowd seemed happy. I sat amazed at the love/hate relationship that is evident in the 'fans' of soccer. What a present. I thought I was an over-zealous fan of sports. Just remember that there are crazier fans in the world next time you get crazy over a Dallas win or a Green Bay loss.

It turned out to be a great birthday, a once in a lifetime treat. And I do mean once in a lifetime. I don't think I am going back to see a professional 'futbol' game here again. I think I will be safer at home watching it on the television.