The Black and White Tears of a Newcastle United Fan

It's hard being a Newcastle United fan — even harder when you've only been following the team for a few seasons. Add into the equation that I'm American, and it's even more difficult. And as many American football/soccer fans know, it's hard supporting a team that's not Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool, or Manchester United on a week-in, week-out basis. Fox Soccer Channel and Setanta are nice, but can't connect me to my team weekly. But why support Newcastle? Wouldn't it be easier to support a team that wins titles consistently, or one that plays an attacking style of football with lots of flair? Yeah, it would be. But like everyone I'm sure, my parents told me when I was young — especially after the Phillies lost in the '94 World Series — that life isn't easy. Sports and fandom should be no different. I'm proud to support Newcastle United, despite the tumultuous past, the confusing present, and the uncertain future. Life is a roller coaster and that's the way I ... (link)