L.A. Futebol
Southern California has become some what of a breeding ground for soccer stars. The game has been brought to this part of the state by many different people, including the players who visit L.A. Futebol in Pico Union. Looking on from the outside, people see soccer as one game played by many people. But the truth of the matter is that there are many games within the one sport. Soccer is largest sport in the world, known to many people outside the U.S. as football. And from the many cultures who play the game come different styles of movement and skill. The Brazilians play a more creative game of soccer. They love to have the ball as close to their feet as possible and they play with the unpredictability of a house cat. They dart from different sections of the field, breaking defenders ankles as they chase after the ball. Most Spanish speaking countries are similar to Brazilians as they enjoy tricks with the ball. Then, there are the Europeans. The Europeans like to make the ball do the work. Instead of creating moves to get through a defender, they create combinations with teammates to get around the opposing team. The ball is often found soaring over the oppositions heads as the Europeans trap a long range pass on a dime and continue their attack as one single unit instead of eleven individuals.
And then of course, there are the Americans. America is probably the most hated brand of soccer in the world. After all, we did change the name of the game. The American game is one full of pure force. The Americans rely on their strength and endurance to get them through games 90 minute games instead of creating opportunities through speed of thought and art. The brutes often find themselves relating to a game of hockey instead of soccer. However, no style of the game is prohibited from within the walls of L.A. Futebol on Washington Boulevard in Pico Union. A worker says “Part of what makes futbol ‘the beautiful game’ is that it welcomes all.” And that it does. Many of the players who play at L.A. Futebol are hoping to continue their careers to the professional level. Maybe, they hope to play for clubs such as the local L.A. Galaxy. Others are just looking for a night of fun and exercise.
Every night around 8 p.m. you can find players from all over the downtown Los Angeles area showing up at the doorstep of this warehouse for a game of pick-up soccer. Admittedly, I was afraid to walk in to such a place that was hidden behind a rusted fence on the backside of the freeway. But once I stepped through the garage door, it was nothing but acceptance of different people and styles.