Alex Schisel at Nou Camp.

Schisel Sees Soccer In New Light

Football, or soccer for those living in the United States, has always been life for me.  Playing collegiate football was always a dream, and having the opportunity to do so at PLU was perfect.  Coupled with dreams of success on the pitch, visions of distant lands and experiences raced through my head when thinking of college.  This past spring semester, I had the once-in-a-lifetime chance to study abroad, and took full advantage of it. 

Having fallen in love with the city four years ago on a family visit, and being a huge fan of the football team, I chose to study in the Spanish metropolis of Barcelona.  Within two weeks, I found my way to Camp Nou, the stadium of the Spanish and European champions FC Barcelona, and I was able to witness their magic first hand in their win over Sevilla.  As time progressed in the city and I had a chance to watch every game either in a bar with friends or first hand at the stadium, my love for the game continued to grow. 

One of the most influential factors in my growing passion for the game while in Barcelona was the opportunity to take a class titled “Sports and Society in Spain.”  The class focused on sports prevalent throughout Spain and the Mediterranean region, specifically examining the effects that football and its various aspects had on society.  Being such an avid fan of the game, I couldn't let this opportunity pass me by, and from the class I acquired a much deeper understanding and appreciation for the intricacies of football. 

Though this class helped me understand the politics and inner-workings of football, there was one single moment that brought my passion for the game to a whole new level.  In arguably the most heated rivalry in the world, FC Barcelona beat arch rival Real Madrid in the 156th meeting of the teams in El Clasico.  Passing circles around the Madrid outfit, FCB went on to win 2-0.  Then the real fun started.  Along with thousands of other devoted fans, I poured towards the famous La Rambla to celebrate the monumental victory, and I was confronted with the craziest scene at a sports venue in my life.  With fireworks, flares and constant chants, the Barca faithful kept the party going well into the early hours of April 11th, and I was able to witness it all first-hand. 

In Barcelona, the football culture is extremely prevalent to society at large, and it has a substantial impact on those living around it.  Not only had I fallen in love with the city I lived in, but I fell further in love with the game that had treated me so well for so many years. 

- By Alex Schisel, PLU Sports Information Student Assistant