Welcome to Chengdu

Arriving in Chengdu, I met one of the British Announcers, Nick London and two people from The Football Association (of England). The airport as well as the city streets has banners and billboards about the tournament. Chengdu’s reputation for support of the tournament is in evidence everywhere.

Upon picking up my luggage, there are World Cup Volunteers to help get me pointed in the right direction with taxi driver. A taxi ride in Chengdu is only part transportation; but mostly a thrill ride. Everyone has been extraordinarily gracious, particularly the two college students at my hotel, He Semin and Xie Xin. They are giving me directions, notes to give to taxi drivers and teaching me Chinese and both are thrilled to be practicing their English.

Immediately upon picking up my credentials I walked across the street to see the crowd gathered at the stadium. I was waved into the media area and arrived just as the US Team were finishing practice and coming out for a couple of quick interviews.

Although I had not pre-arranged any interviews, listening to Abby Wambach and Hope Solo, they are clearly confident and eager to get the tournament started.