Just in from the company bbq. Only it's not a company that pays me, rather it was the NE Revolution...for whom I volunteer. Tonight was their bbq for all staff, volunteers and players. It started with a chance to watch the team train(normally the sessions are closed except by permission). So things were more relaxed than what you'd expect. Since there weren't many of us there(being midweek and starting at 430p, most people were still at work), we got to sit on the bench so were in the middle of things. Brad Friedel is training with the team this week since he'll probably play in the US WC qualifier next week. With a fairly even mix of English and Spanish speakers on the team, communication on the pitch went easily between the 2 languages...including swearing!

Due to predictions of heavy thunderstorms, the bbq itself was moved up to the stadium(about a mile away). So a convoy of players and staff headed up the road. We parked while the players took off like bats outta hell to their shower/changing facilities. The training ground is a pitch inthe middle of a deserted mental hospital, so a bit lacking in facilites ;-) Just as well we all got first crack at the food, cause once they came in it was 2 plates to a man. A couple of them are so tiny, I don't know where they put it all. Anyhow, a very pleasant evening as the players mixed quite readily with the volunteers. One of the players at our table looked ready to fall into his bbq chicken. He's recently become a father for the first time. Things to look forward to, Softie! After food, everyone headed over to the Soccer Celebration area where the staff had set up a couple of the inflatable elements for the kids to play on...though the adults took over the human fussball! Some of the players had a kickabout with the kids onthe mini pitch. A really fun night.

Also interesting to note were the players cars. Only 1 or 2 with anything near the flash factor of EPL players. Just goes to show the diffenece in pay. ;-)

-- Anonymous, August 09, 2000