London Football Match With Dad

During my recent study abroad stint in London, I had the fortune of immersing myself in a variety of enriching experiences, but none as remarkable as attending a Tottenham Hotspur vs. Burnley match with my dad. This was not just another football match; it was a culmination of years of shared passion and a pivotal moment in our journey as Tottenham supporters. 

Our support for Tottenham began in 2015 while living in Seattle. Despite the significant time difference,  we enthusiastically supported Spurs, often waking up in the early hours of the morning to watch their matches. Gradually, our fandom evolved into a kind of bonding ritual, and we harbored hopes of one day watching a Tottenham match together in person. This dream edged somewhat closer to reality during our family trip to London in 2018, when my dad and I, armed with umbrellas, walked around the still-under construction of Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, our awe and excitement palpable despite the pouring rain. 

I remember the air being thick with excitement. Although I had been fortunate enough to attend three previous Tottenham home matches during my study abroad in London to that point, this match held extra significance because it was the first time my dad would see our favorite team play live. The joy of sharing this moment with him, who had surprised me with a visit from Chicago where we currently live earlier in the week, added an extra layer of emotion to the occasion. I remember approaching the iconic Tottenham Hotspur Stadium after embarking from the White Hart Lane railway station, feeling a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation over the day ahead. I wanted everything to be perfect for my dad’s first Spurs game. I remember how the streets around the stadium were bustling with fans clad in white, all buzzing with match-day energy as fans chanted anthems and engaged in pre-match chatter. This was the immersive experience I had come to enjoy and was eager for my dad to witness firsthand. 

We were situated near the halfway line, providing an exceptional view of the entire pitch. The atmosphere was electric, buzzing with the excitement of fans from both teams as the players took to the field.  The match was electrifying, a true testament not just to Tottenham’s exhilarating style of play but to the high-octane, competitive nature of the English Premier League. Witnessing our team’s coordination, the crowd’s reactions and the intense gameplay together was incredible.

It was particularly special to see how much my dad enjoyed experiencing the game live. He was especially impressed with the players' precision and agility, noting a distinct difference in the quality of play compared to Major League Soccer. 

When the final whistle sounded, confirming Tottenham's close 2-1 win, we joined the rest of the stadium in a loud celebration. The moment was made even more memorable when, about 10 minutes later, the players and coaching staff completed a lap around the stadium to show their appreciation to the fans. Ultimately,  the experience was more than just watching another Tottenham match with my dad on the living room couch back in Chicago; it realized a dream that we had harbored for around nine years. 

This game, perhaps more than the other Tottenham matches that I attended alone earlier in my study abroad experience, highlighted the unique bond that I share with my dad through our love for Tottenham. The joy and memories from that day are something I will forever cherish, a perfect blend of personal passion and shared joy with my dad. This experience was not just about watching our favorite team play; it was about celebrating our journey as fans and as family, against the backdrop of a city that was my home away from home for about half a year.

Interested in studying abroad in London? Check out available programs here!