What better place to start off in the menacing world of recreational sporting events than co-ed Competitive Outdoor Soccer. Yes, it hardly sounds daunting; “co-ed,” and “recreational,” I hear you all cry. I was inclined to agree until I witnessed two angelic-looking substitutes sharpening their studs and growling ferociously on the touchline. Okay, maybe not quite, but I was pleasantly surprised to find such meticulous and well-drilled teams gathered on the field.
I was lucky enough to turn up while league leaders the Titans were playing against the modestly named Beercules. Indeed, this game was set up for a good old Greek mythological fist-fight, and rightly so, given that the temperature dipped well below freezing.
Throughout the game, both goalkeepers stood oblivious to these intense conditions in little more than pyjamas and then continued, persistently, to dive about on frosty carpet.
Having been briefed pre-match by the Titans’ captain Hamid, I was aware of the plethora of international talent on the pitch and I was deeply impressed by how the dynamic midfielder orchestrated his team in Arabic, Spanish and English.
Just before the end of the half, the Titans’ first goal directed itself neatly into the top left hand corner after some exquisite interplay on the edge of the box.
I reluctantly pulled myself away at halftime to watch the ending of what turned out to be an equally impressive duel between the Hooligans and the Sweet Cleats. I didn’t find any primordial giant gods over here, but it wouldn’t have surprised me if some of them were the offspring of Uranus and Gaea too.
One particular player stood out amongst the rest, his name, rather fittingly, was Victor Chikvinidze. He stole the show with his blissful trickery and two stunningly powerful strikes. The game ended 5 goals to zero in favour of the Hooligans, but the Sweet Cleats walked away still cheerful at managing to avoid a complete hammering.
If you are looking for an intense and serious game of football – or should I say soccer, since I’m in Canada - get yourself selected for the varsity team. If you are looking for a fun and leisurely kick about, then get involved with Co-ed Recreational Soccer league. If you are looking for something to quench your competitive streak and maintain both your legs, then look no further than the Co-Ed Competitive Soccer league. Next semester’s games are all played indoors!
