Really, they moved in large part because the Earthquakes were pricing them out of Buck Shaw. But instead of admitting this and then looking for the bright side, they sent out an email that made it seem like the choice was entirely voluntary (if so, why not wait until the new stadium is finished instead of playing the first few games at a high school?). CSU East Bay is building a soccer-specific park and that's great, but the email highlighted some disturbing 'reasons' that the new stadium is preferable, including more parking/tailgating space (so crucial in these days when we should use our cars more than ever, right?) and the ability to drink beer in the stands. Apparently certain vocal fans had been referring to Buck Shaw as 'beer jail,' as if living without a drink for two hours was a major burden (and more alcohol will fit so nicely with the expanded driving opportunities). Speaking for myself, it was nice to attend a pro athletic event without worrying that someone was going to spill a beer on me. It was also a marketing plus since it created a family atmosphere devoid of drunk, belligerent jerks. Also, since when is the East Bay the 'heartland' of the Bay Area? It's not Nebraska. It's just Hayward.

View Original Post at ftlouie.typepad.com/womensports

• Filed Under:  
• Soccer, Sports, SportsPLUS, Fans, WPS

• Tags:
• Soccer
• FC Gold Pride
• stadium
• buck shaw