Clash of Clans

It is overcast and early afternoon as I find a patch of grass to claim as my own for the next hour and a half or so. Around midfield, this area should offer a great view of the match and spectators who attend. Typically more interested in the game, today will be a different experience as I attempt to observe and understand habits of the supporters of both teams.

Right off, it is easy to see that the teams come from very different backgrounds. Players of one team arrive in various mid-high end cars and SUVs, outfitted from head to toe in matching brand name gear. These players clearly understand that they come from money, and they act accordingly. Their warm up is organized and disciplined. The players communicate professionally, but there is a certain essence of childhood enjoyment that seems to be missing from the situation. These players are here to carry out business first and foremost.

In stark contrast to the first team, the second team arrives in old cars, big trucks, and dusty SUVs. Each player comes dressed in whatever gear they can gather, with the only consistency being the black and yellow jersey that distinguishes them as a team. It is rare to see two players wearing identical shorts or socks. Somewhat surprisingly, these players still wear the most recent and in demand cleats on their feet. Based on shoes alone, it would be impossible to guess which team is wealthy and which team is not.

Parents of the two teams are almost exactly what one would expect after seeing their children. The parents of the first team chat quietly in small groups. They are dressed casually, but it is still easy to tell that they are not hurting for money. The fathers wear the latest brand name tennis shoes and expensive sunglasses, even though the cloud cover has effectively eliminated the need for them. The mothers are dressed in athletic jackets from Adidas and Nike that do not come cheap. Parents from the other team wear jeans, the fathers in boots and mothers in flip flops. They lay down blankets to sit on.

The game starts, and the first team dominates possession, looking very organized but failing to find that cutting edge that will reward them with a goal. The second team chases tirelessly, working very hard for any possession of the ball that they can get. Although they have very little of the ball, their attacks still look potent. When they win possession, they get the ball forward in a hurry to the big striker who looks to be their best chance at winning the game. The parents of the second team cheer very loudly. The parents of the first team are supportive but quiet, almost as if their social status requires them to be refined and proper at all times.

The game ends 4-1 to the first team. Their organized style of play proved to be too complex for their opponents to stymie, and they walk away comfortable winners. The first team departs rather quickly, while the second team stays at the field and socializes.

I found it to be a little weird that the two groups of parents and fans did not interact at all. There was not the typical conversation or even bickering that one would expect at a youth sporting event. I feel that this event was a good microcosm for society.