There figures to be a raucous atmosphere tonight when the U.S. takes on Belgium
tonight in Seattle in a World Cup match that has the potential to be one of the biggest
men’s soccer matches in the nation’s history.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly atmosphere to take it in, consider The Yard on the
campus of Rutgers in New Brunswick.
So said DEVCO President Chris Paladino, who said the efforts to bring a great
atmosphere — without the bar scene — have proven to be a success throughout the
tourney.
There’s no admission charge. No alcohol. No vendors. Just a large screen TV, a grassy
area for lawn chairs and plenty of food and drink at the retail shops that surround the
space.
So far, Paladino said it’s been a big hit, drawing anywhere from 500 to 1,000 spectators
depending on the match and the weather, with the biggest crowds saved for Mexico.
“It’s a family friendly atmosphere,” he said. “Everyone who comes is having a great
time. It’s exactly what we were hoping for.”
The Yard is proving to be another example of the watch parties (official or unofficial) the
state has pushed.
The best way to celebrate the global event is to have events that recognize all countries
and cultures.
Paladino said matches featuring Mexico have been particularly fun, thanking Mariana
Diaz, who heads the country’s office in New Brunswick, for helping to create a top
atmosphere. Fans have shown up in cultural dress, singing along during the national
anthem with hands over their hearts. The first Mexico match at The Yard featured a
mariachi band, with a troupe of dancers performing at halftime.
“It’s really been incredible to see,” he said. “It’s really something that families have been
enjoying together.”
Sunday’s match between Mexico-England drew another huge crowd, despite concerns
about the weather.
The U.S. match tonight figures to top it. Paladino, in fact, said the Yard will stay up late.
The Yard has been closing up by 11 on most nights of the event. The Yard, you have to
remember, is home to students, many of which are in summer school.
Paladino said he’ll make an exception tonight for a match that starts at 8 p.m.
“We’ll go as long as the match goes – and then some,” he said.
For Paladino, the appeal of The Yard isn’t about putting on a show, it’s about giving people a place to be together.
“They’re there for them, they’re there to be with each other, they’re there for the game,” he said. “They don’t need to be entertained.”
