Throughout the Euro2008 tourney, fans can be heard reveling in the play on the pitch through their creation of a wondrous and uproarious cacophony that fills each stadium. Tune into any match during the tournament and the fans will be sharing rhythmic songs, taunting other fans with carefully choreographed chants to rile and infuriate, unceasingly beating drums in a tribal cadence, unfurling some of the largest flags ever seen proudly displaying their team’s and country’s emblem and/or crest.

I have had the privilege of attending some amazing soccer destinations around the world and seen games and experienced the spirit of international fans. Among the places that I have visited are the Bernabeu Stadium, home of Real Madrid, and FC Bayern Munich’s Olympic Stadium and their spectacular new home venue, Allianz Arena. I got to personally walk on the field of the Bernabeu, tour the locker room and view the athletic training facilities used by the players – heaven!

Equally exciting for me was the honor of attending two Homeless World Cups – 2006 Cape Town, South Africa and 2007 Copenhagen, Denmark. I was amazed at the level of support many of the HWC teams received and how quickly word traveled to the locals in the host city that teams from all over the world were participating in the games. That word of mouth messaging seemed to create a call-to-action among the locals in each city and immediately raised an sense of nationalism and the necessity to support the team that was their homeland’s kit (aka uniform). The atmosphere at both HWCs had a comparable level of raucous, wonderful cheering and support for the players and teams that any fan might find at a professional game around the world – impressive! The players responded with increased level of play, intensity and commitment in each small side, 4v4 match.

The HWC enjoys the support of noteworthy celebrities like Colin Farrell, who narrates the “Kicking It” film, and soccer star Didier Drogba a true believer in the HWC and the game of soccer’s ability to change lives. Enjoy Didier’s interview about his start in the game, playing for the Chelsea side and why he supports the Homeless World Cup. You can also read Colin’s exclusive interview from the Sundance Film Festival: Farrell shared his perspective on the HWC, why he loves the game of soccer so much and why he is an advocate for the fight to end homelessness and poverty. Enjoy the read!

And if you’re inspired, there is an opportunity for you get involved and to become an official fan of the Homeless World Cup!