By Matt Hoffman
As the 2014 World Cup kicks off in Brazil, it serves as a great reminder of St. Louis’ storied soccer history. St. Louis is decidedly a soccer town, as well as one of the major birthplaces of the game in the United States. The St. Louis region has produced scores of professional soccer players over the years, including five members of the famous 1950 U.S. World Cup team, which defeated England in a shocking upset. That team featured several stars from The Hill neighborhood, including goalkeeper Frank Borghi. To learn more about Borghi, who worked for years as a funeral director in St. Louis, and the 1950 World Cup, read this 2011 Post-Dispatch interview .
The presence of large populations of Italian, Irish, German, and Bosnian immigrants, combined with a thriving youth soccer scene, has produced an enthusiastic and longstanding soccer fan base in St. Louis. Given this rich history, it is no surprise that the region offers a variety of bars and restaurants where fans can gather to watch and talk soccer. The Riverfront Times recently compiled a list of “ The 7 Best Places to Watch the 2014 World Cup in St. Louis ,” which features several excellent locations throughout the St. Louis area.
The World Cup is a great time to not only appreciate St. Louis’ soccer tradition, but also to get out, enjoy a game or two, and discover a new neighborhood!
Current Study: Public Health