Congratulazioni Italia!

"The grandest prize in all of sport belongs to Italy."

A head-butt to the chest. A hug from a guy on the opposite team. Intentionally stopping play for an injured opponent. Spirits were high today as the two teams worked their hearts our for the most prestigious sport prize in the world. Yet, amidst the fierce competitiveness found in all sports competitions, the concepts of "Fair-Play" (as introduced by FIFA to promote good sportsmanship) and compassion for all players on the field. Perhaps the most rewarding sight on a soccer field, whether amateur or professional play, is to see two players of different colored jerseys behaving as good friends. After all, they are all experts in the same field of study. They are all professionals and should treat their co-workers as such. Both goaltenders exhibited this mutual respect with a handshake and hug before the begin of the penalty kick shootout that resulted in France's top-bar deflection - ultimately ending in their defeat.

The sad note of the game was the poor decision made by a hot-tempered Zidane in the second 15-minute half of overtime play. France's captain was a man perceived to be in the same league of players as the famous Pelé himself. To his team's regret, Zidane had announced twice that this would be his last football game. He chose to end it, however, by giving a sharp blow to the chest of Italy's Materazzi... with his head. This move, which took place nowhere near the play, earned Zidane a colorful exit from the stadium as well as the sport itself. It was a sad moment that very well may have cost France their chance at World Cup victory.

All in all, the good outweighed the bad and the game went on with spirits high in anticipation of an exciting end. Fans were not dissapointed when the shootout came to the very last series of shots. The last goal of the game, decided by Grosso, erupted with cheers all across the globe. From Rome to Boston, fans were cheering for the new world champtions of the greatest game on earth.

Italy - wear your medals proudly. And hold your heads and trophy high... you have earned your place in football history.

And to all of the other participants of the 2006 World Cup in Germany... congratulations for being participants in the greatest sporting event in all of history. You have all represented your nations magnificantly. Yet, more importantly, you have shown your abilities to remain loyal to your teammates while also being loyal to those against whom you are fighting for victory. After all, it is not against them you fight. No, any athlete can fight against an opponent. It is the great athlete who recognizes that the real battle wages within.

Love,
David

P.S. I know I shouldn't end on a preposition... but I say - screw grammar. Do any of the literary greats always adhere to the laws, rules, and regulations of the annoying language I was brought up to read, write, and speak? No. They "bend" the rules and get applauded for it. I choose to be unique.