This abandoned park by the river was surrounded by a gate with a sign warning all to stay out and beware of guard dogs presenting danger to life and limb. You can see most of the park from a distance through the gate, and you can even catch the guards, some of whom were napping on duty.

Since the beginning of time, Germans have been masters of the game of football. With names like Muller and Beckenbauer, and their most recent World Cup victory to boot, I find myself asking the age old question yet again, what do they know that we don’t? I, like most football fans in America, have always wondered why we, a huge country with vast resources and a plethora of athletes are time and time again simply unable to compete at the international level. Arguments range from ‘our best athletes play real American football’ to ‘the game is too slow’. I can personally understand where these arguments come from, even if I don’t agree with them. However, I believe it goes deeper than that. I believe football is so deeply embedded in the German culture on a scale that we can’t comprehend. I’ve played football all my life and honestly it is one of the most important things in the world to me. I consider myself a student of the game. I will use what resources and knowledge I have of the game as well as the German culture to see if I can infiltrate my way into this inner circle and uncover the secret.

Having been in Berlin for five days now my football experiences have been limited, what with having to adjust and everything. And although I was beginning to worry, I am proud to say that I did not miss the Clasico.

Ah yes, the Clasico, Barcelona against Real Madrid; most likely the two best teams in the world, both in the Spanish La Liga. These two giants, nay gods, play each other (in league) twice a year, and every time it is 90 minutes of pure bliss. This is the game truly at its finest on display. Any die hard fan of a small local club would agree.

Although I am in Germany, Belushi’s (the bar) was packed. The whole crowd was divided 50/50 between the two teams as the Spaniards were out in force. The chaotic atmosphere was completely overshadowed, however, by the game itself, blasting on every screen in the house, up stairs and downstairs, as well as projected onto a giant wall. As a Clasico for the ages came to an end, I knew I was on the right track.

ps mad 2- bar 1

Berlin will be the Knees of the Bees!

Notice how the bee has a knee.