I Didn't Forget That I had A Blog

I just got busy teaching. First session ended a few days ago and second session begins tomorrow. Since I have been here at Catholic University. I have had a chance to watch a couple of the Euro 08 matches. Sadly, I had to miss the final today because of work but I did get a chance to watch a rather top notch DC United walk all over Becks and Landycakes at Fado. I also made my way out to a very sketchy part of DC where RFK stadium is to buy myself United jersey. I do not really support the MLS because it refuses to eat its Wheaties and become a real league, but I figured I might as well have a team in it, so I picked DC.

The matches that I got to see were rather stunning. What really surprised the hell out of me were the Netherlands. This is a team that I had never really put much stock in but by God when the time came, they got down to business. The goals were simply top class and the form was spot on. It is a shame that they had to go out when they did. I also got to see Germany play Turkey and I must say, watching the game next to a Germany fan made the world of difference. Our office coordinator is from Germany and he was absolutely awesome to have around. However, he was not all that happy this afternoon after Germany lost.

As for the United game, I got to the pub at about 12:30 today and had boxty and beer for breakfast. I have no clue what was going on with the Galaxy or United for that matter but it was truly amazing to see United walk all over Landycakes and Becks. The touches were spot on as were the shots. This will probably be my last post for a while, a new group of students get here tomorrow, so happy 4th of July (albeit a bit early) and happy footy all.

Staff Training Continues. ... Oh Yeah, There's This Footy Tournament Going On Too.

So, staff training has been going really well so far. It isn't anything that I haven't already read or heard before. Don't do anything dumb and make sure the kids don't do anything dumb. And make sure that you count, count, count. I don't mind the repetition but the walks back and forth between lunch and the places we are having our sessions is a bit much. I will say one thing, I will definitely get a workout this summer.


Even though it seems like I have blinked maybe twice since I have been here, the past three days have seen the start of Euro 08 and let me tell you, I am pissed that I am missing these matches. I just saw the match highlights for The Netherlands v. Italy and watched the Italians walk around like puppies without masters. I don't know the record but I doubt that any Italian team in the last ten years has never been beaten that bad in a competition. Truly amazing. There is still hope for the Italians yet if they play strong in their remaining fixtures. They might have a chance to face France in the final this year but that's still weeks away so we will have to see.

Token Euro 08 Post.

I have to agree with The Offside Rules that there is nothing to really be excited for when it comes down to this years European Championship. I will personally be rushing back her each night after staff training to catch the highlights of the days matches. I have decided to pull for Portugal (and it isn't because of the flashy video that I have at the top of the blog... or the one that The Offside Rules has either).

"HEY LEHMANN, QUIT YOUR WHINING!"

I doubt that that is what Oliver Kahn is screaming but it very well could be. The German international keeper who retired from Bayern Munich this past year has spoke out against claims by the former Arsenal keeper, Jens Lehmann's claims that the new Adidas ball for Euro 2008 deviates while in air.

The Gunner, who saw very little play time this past season, has stated that he has had trouble adjusting to the new ball and he apparently needs more time with the ball. Well, I hate to tell you Jens, time is up. Euro 2008 begins next week and I would love to try and stop the new ball. It has minute bumps on the surface that help the keeper with his grip. I think the problem is that Lehmann who rode the pine pony for most of the season is out of form and is scared that he will not make the grade when it counts. Simply put, Lehmann should stop his sniveling. If one of the best keepers to ever play the game says the ball is fine, then there is 99% chance that it is.

I might be missing Euro 08

I get home from class this afternoon and check my email. I got offered a position to teach kids about national security and intelligence. It was a thing that I had fancied doing all of three weeks ago but when I realized that I have to work on my thesis and watch Euro 08 I started to have second thoughts. So now I have my thesis class tomorrow and I need to pick out a topic and figure out how doable it is while I have to teach and babysit a group of high schoolers. Hopefully the dorms that I would be staying in will have some sort of t.v. room with cable. If I can catch the highlights, I would be happy.

On another note, I recommend that you guys all go over to www.worldsoccerdailyshop.com to get all of your Euro 2008 gear. I got my personalized Germany jersey from them and it looks rather spiffing if I do say so myself. Wow, look at that, two plugs in one day. I gotta be sick or something.