World Cup Wisdom

As the World Cup wound down from teams from 32 countries to the eventual one winner, we enjoyed cheering with and consoling World Forum friends from all these countries.  Although sometimes it appeared that in the coverage of the event the vuvuzelas were getting more attention than the games, it was a great experience with many lessons to be learned (years of experience do not always trump hard work;  sometimes crime pays — just ask Ghanains;  and referees are human — all too evident in the early rounds). 

One lesson that may go beyond sports is that teamwork can pay off.  Analysts seemed to agree that when it came to teamwork, no one did it better than the German squad (even though this was not enough to carry them into the finals).  New York Times columnist, Rob Hughes, made this observation about the German team...

"Every man works, and runs, for the others.  Everyone thinks, if he makes a pass, who will run onto it.  No one shirks the tackles, no one shies from the work."

An even more fundamental message of the World Cup has been the organizers' (and participants') campaign to "stamp out international racism."  Before every match players from the competing teams have gathered for photo opportunities behind banners calling for an end to racism.  Not something you see at most sporting events.

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