pumpkindriver

To FinSaint, I can't quote your reply as its too damned long but I have lived in Germany. And while they may have some leagues and 3 divisions of American Football there, the general population of Germany doesn't give a rats furry rear end about American Football. And if anybody is spewing hate and ignorance its you. You're the one resorting to classless name calling tactics, not me. Go crawl back under from the rock from which you came.

FinSaint

OK, so I'm not trying to start a fight with you and if I hurt your feelings... then I apologize for that. I will admit that maybe I overreacted to your comment, but I guess it just struck a nerve as I have heard that from so many peoples mouths. Furthermore, I've had to defend this particular game and it's fans far too many times on this side of the pond against very similar statements as you made.

But, for my rebuttal to the statement above, I would still argue that your initial statement below is incorrect and it came across as somewhat xenophobic even if that was not your intention.

A country by definition is made up by its citizens (or nation as they are sometimes referred to as), its borders, and the culture, customs, aspirations and laws they share amongst themselves making up what is often called a nation-state. If - as in this case I'd argue for - even some parts of the population holds dear some concept or activity, it would be incorrect to make a blanket statement as you did stating that the country as a whole doesn't know or care about a certain thing. That was my point, but whether I made it comprehensibly enough in my earlier reply can certainly be argued.

But, if you still don't believe me that football has a dedicated and growing following in Germany, I would advice you to read through the following article. Even though its two years old, it still gives you a better perspective on the matter, and more importantly from someone else than me. As a direct quote from the article I think the following serves as a fairly good argument against your statements.

American*football enjoys a thriving subculture in Germany - The Bonus - SI.com

Lastly, I don't think that I'm guilty of "name calling" as you stated, and I still stand by my opinion that what you stated was ignorant while maybe not meant as malevolent. All I ask is for you to have an open mind towards the commitment of players and fans of this game outside of the borders of North America.

"I'm not bashing people, I'm bashing their opinions because in my opinion their opinion is wrong" - Danno