Chad Cooper

Why Blue?

Well – I’d first like to say that I had one of the greatest weeks of my life. Ever since I arrived into Manchester (Nov 99) I have been thinking of every way possible of getting back. Defection, marriage, and a company transfer have all been considered. However; I will be taking 8 hours of classes next fall so I can qualify for a British-American (BUNAC) exchange. I have decided that I will probably be leaving for England in June of 2001.

Destination => Manchester

Let’s just say that my 3 days in Manchester were simply amazing. I got to see City beat Barnsley and then saw an awful match – we lost to Huddersfield. During the trip I met loads of great people and got to stay on Fallowfield Road. I loved it. When I move to Manchester with this programme, I plan on moving back to the area I stayed in. The only difference is the stadium will probably be gone. Am I right? I stayed with three crazy Mancunian birds I met at a pub. When you walked outside their flat you could see the stadium. All of them being Blues’ fans!

I support Manchester City Football Club because they have the style and panache I am looking for. I am enticed by grit, loyalty, and perseverance. The first football match I ever saw live (exchange student/London 94) was City vs. QPR. I found myself sitting in the QPR section rooting for City. I got some pretty bad looks. When City scored the whole stand of City supporters stormed the field. I’m not an advocate of violence, but I was mesmerized by the scene.

The next few years I was purple. I supported United because in the States you can’t get live coverage of City. My heart was Blue – but my actions were Red. Like someone who’s embarrassed after a drunken stupor – I’d like to drop the United thing. It’s embarrassing.

I came back to the team when they were in the middle of the Second Division. They worked hard last year and we achieved greatness at Wembley. I downloaded the goals onto my computer.

One of the main reasons I’m moving to Manchester is to see City play. I plan on bringing over a decent amount of money so I’m going to try and get season tickets. I don’t think I would be able to live with myself knowing City are playing and I’m not watching. I’m really proud of what they’ve accomplished lately. I can’t sit here and say I know everything about the history of the club. It’s hard when you live so far away and your dad only knows of Pele.

My plan is to work in Manchester for 6 months and try to renew my blue card. I’d really like to live over there for about 3-4 years. Whether in sunny Arizona or Moss side, I look forward to taking my son or daughter (no kids yet!) to see them play. I really like basketball and American football – but it just doesn’t compare to English football.

That is why I support the Blues.

First printed in: MCIVTA Newsletter #596 on