Masthead header

Sporting KC vs New York Red Bulls

Growing up in a small town in the Midwest, soccer was an afterthought. A sport for those who weren’t good enough. The kids whose parents drove Subarus and Volvos. I never knew how wrong my own young misconceptions were.

5 years ago I started to fall in love with soccer - watching the passion and artistry of the 2010 World Cup sucked me in. Since then I haven’t been able to get enough. It’s not about jumping on the bandwagon - rather finally understanding what the rest of the world already knew.

This weekend I had the opportunity to document Sporting KC’s opening match with the New York Red Bulls. As my first professional match I wanted to bring a fresh set of eyes to the day. No preconceived notions or expectations. Blown away doesn’t even begin to describe the experience. The atmosphere was so energetic but at the same time intimate. It felt like I was watching with a stadium full of close friends.

My hope is that these images will get your heart racing. I’m already planning my return trip but I have one thing to take care of first -next week I’m taking my 3 year old to his first soccer practice.

Jesse Pafundi - March 11, 2015 - 8:29 pm

Love it. You definitely brought your own eye & style.