Except for casually watching the World Cup, I didn’t follow European football or the Premier League until 3 years ago.
A close friend (who was a sports junkie — diehard NFL, MLB, NHL, NBA fan) had become a huge Liverpool fan. I had no clue. Told me he watches 3-4 games per week, and no longer watched anything else. I joined him one Saturday morning and was blown away by his knowledge as he explained the rules and tactics.
So, I decided to give it a try, and picked Chelsea, having hung out in that neighborhood during the winter/spring of 1988 as a law student. Rather quickly, I developed a new founded appreciation for the athleticism and professionalism of the players. The TV commentators are superb. Learned the tactics of the chess match on the pitch.
Started listening to my very first and only podcast. Watched the Amazon Prime show about Manchester City’s season in 2017, and Sunderland Til I Die on Netflix. The business side is fascinating.
Last year (April 2019), we flew over and watched a match live at the stadium. As thrilling as the first time walking into Notre Dame stadium as a kid.
Watching every match now, I have to stand in front of the TV, too captivating to sit on couch.
Truly addictive.
Flame away. To each his own.
But, nothing else in professional sports comes close.