Watching twenty-two men kick a ball around the pitch was most definitely the best part of my trip to England. Football has always been a huge part of who I am, so naturally the first thing I had planned to do during my trip across the pond was attend a match at Wembley Stadium.
Walking into the the stadium was surreal, the energy was uncanny and I could feel my heart racing with excitement. After my first step past the doors to where the pitch was, my jaw dropped- the view was absolutely incredible. The crisp fresh air, green grass on the pitch, bright fire truck red seats, and the sun shining across it all. It was as though I had just stepped foot into my wildest dream, and I did not have to wake up.
By kickoff, the stadium was packed with loud and rowdy fans decked out in either Tottenham Hotspurs or AFC Wimbledon apparel. From the first touch of the ball, fans were chanting, singing and cheering with a strong sense of passion and pride. Although I could not understand most of what the crowds were chanting, the atmosphere had captivated me and made me feel like a part of the whole. Goals in the second half only intensified the animated group of followers. I bounced out of my seat as quickly as the ball hit the net, seeing Harry Kane score in person is something that will be engrained in my memory for the rest of my life. This was a place that I did not want to leave, a place where I felt as right at home.
Don’t worry Wembley, I’ll be back soon to enjoy the most beautiful game in the world.
Audree Gilchrest