First Game day

Tonight, Dynamo Houston faces the Colorado Rapids at 6:30 p.m. Today, professional soccer makes a historic return to Houston. I wish good things for the team; but I hope that it becomes a catalyst that turns Houston -- all of Houston, not just an ethnic group or youth group -- into a soccer city. Soccer is a sport that can coexist with traditional American fare, yet it can be so much more due to its global appeal and the "Olympic-styled" grandeur of the World Cup.

So far, I'm impressed with the media coverage in Houston. The Houston Chronicle has had several good articles that go well beyond what they've done for any sport outside the "big three" (football, baseball, and basketball). Today sees a special section of the paper devoted to the Dynamo and the MLS.

Glenn Davis, local soccer commentator and reporter (and a member of the Houston Dynamos so long ago), has done a yeoman's job of getting the word out. He is to host a weekly "Dynamo Power Hour" on the radio, in addition to his regular "Soccer Hour" show.

The Dynamo have received some time on the local sports talk shows (and some not so favorable time on some of the non-sports talk shows where current events and gripes about the oddities of life hold sway). Oliver Luck has made the rounds as well.

Today, Cannon, Mastroeni, Beckerman, and Mathis come to Houston. Perhaps now we can put behind the 1836 imbroglio and begin focusing on soccer.

We know Pat Onstad is a force between the sticks. How will the defense measure up given the injuries and personnel losses? Will Serioux start in the back or as defensive midfielder? Midfield should be strong once everyone (Clark, Davis, and Waibel) has recovered. How will De Rosario fare as a playmaker rather than as a forward? Will Ching be the target forward he can be (but struggles to be for the national team)?

Coach Kinnear had the measurements of Robertson Stadium echo those of Spartan Stadium, where the team played last year as the SJ Earthquakes. They were undefeated at home last year, and are hoping to recreate the magic by recreating the narrow field confines.

Today, questions will be answered about the team, the field, and the fans' reaction. San Jose gave up a lot for this, as have the Dynamo players. Lets hope the results with this team and with this town make their sacrifices worthwhile.