So it would seem that communism and soccer don't mix. At least that is one take on the recent world cup match between Portugal and North Korea. In the match, N. Korea was routed 7-0. For those of you that are not soccer fans, that is about as sad a loss as one can be dealt.
For the highlights click here.
While I am not sure of any connection that can be made between communism and sports ability as China seems to have skills in gymnastics and other olympic type events, it would seem that amongst N. Korea's diplomatic issues of late, their soccer team is taking a pounding as well. Could you blame it on the fact that asia pacific nations are not as proficient in the sport as those in Europe. Sure. But, South Korea beat Greece (a european nation). So I am not sure that geography as much as skill and the love of competition are the winning factors.
As a world cup watcher, a fan of major league soccer, and the sport in general, I find it quite nice to see the counties come together again in the spirit of competition. It is nice to see men disciplined in their sport, with the ability to show they are dedicated to a physical art form without having to do so by violence and pounding on one another.
I am not really a fan of soccer, but I do LOVE mixed martial arts. I think UFC, Tapout and Bellator are great fun. Boxing is old school, but still has the spirit of one on one combat.
ReplyDeleteAs far as team sports goes, I like baseball and basketball.
As a Latter-day Saint myself, I dont really find anything in contradiction in the gospel with martial artistry. The key is that points are made for skill, and that individuals enter the ring on their own volition. What is cool inside the ring would be highly immoral outside of it, to perpetrate on those who have not agreed to it. This is no different than football.