The World Cup is the best sporting event in the world...

I can say the above statement and know in full confidence that it is correct after traveling to Germany for the Cup. The passion I saw from fans of all nationalities was astonishing. Until you see it in person, it is hard to believe. On June 21st I was in Gelsenkirchen, Germany to watch Mexico take on Portugal. I assumed Portugal would have the dominant fan base because of the relative distance the two groups would have to travel. I was wrong. Starting with breakfast and continuing until the train station at 2:30 am, Mexican fans were everywhere and happy to be there. They took over the train stations, they crowded the beer stands, they dominated the stadium. I have a new appreciation for Mexican soccer fans, they're some of the best in the world.

Another awesome part of the trip was the fact that the games were on live, everywhere. This is not a stretch. Every bar, restaurant, TV store...everywhere showed the games. You didn't have to put any effort into finding a spot to watch and grab dinner and drinks. It was so exciting to be amongst so many other fans all watching the same thing.

The US game had a bad result but a great atmosphere. A lot of Americans made the trip and in that stadium it was amazing to hear thousands of countrymen singing the national anthem. Not just singing, belting out is more appropriate. At baseball, football, hockey, basketball, etc. games people stand, take off their hat and quietly whisper along. Towards the end people hoot and holler. At the World Cup the fans are representing their country and they sing! Every single American was on their feet SINGING at the top of their lungs and there wasn't any hootin' and hollerin' before the end. It was a moment that sent chills down my spine.

In summary, all you soccer fans out there need to be thinking about how you're going to get to the cup in 4 years. If not South Africa, I heard England has the inside track on 2014. Start saving your pennies.