by stl_royal »
18 Apr 2011 07:31
I started following Reading in 2002 after the world cup. Being an American the sport had never really caught my eye mostly due to lack of exposure until around then. But that world cup caught my eye and I have been addicted to the game ever since. I knew a couple of people who were typical glory hunting Man U fans (as was becoming the trend state side) and I didn't want to be a part of that. Somehow I stumbled upon Reading FC--Marcus Hahnemann being American, plus happening on this board while browsing football sites the biggest factors.
Its been tough at times, especially in my early years, never being able to go to matches as I live some thousands of miles away, struggling to find live streams, etc. But the 106 season came and I've never looked back. I do all I can to keep up and still get odd looks by the growing number of my friends who have become soccer fans ("Reading....who the hell are they" the most usual response to my love).
This season has been a ride to remember for certain, hoping to see the team pull it off and go up again; not in the least because it is easier to follow a team in the Prem. With graduating uni soon I'm hoping 2011-2012 season will be my first trip to the Mad Stad to see a game first hand. Until then I remain borderline obsessed with my distant still somewhat obscure team and will never follow another.
