E D I T O R APRIL 2012
WILLIAM KNOUS /// MANAGING EDITOR
WKNOUS@H3-MEDIA.COM
This past weekend, I had the chance to spend an amazing day doing something I really love: knitting. Just kidding. Actually I was able to do something that, in all my years of rabid fandom, I'd never been able to accomplish. I saw my first professional soccer game, live. I've seen and participated in countless Rec league, intramural, high school and college games – but I'd never had the chance to see some people who get (legally) paid to play the game I love so much, and it did not disappoint. I drove to Frisco to see the season-opening matchup for Major League Soccer (MLS) between FC Dallas and the New York Red Bulls. I met up with friend, and former BSCENE cover model, Matt Stanley and a few buddies from his weekly indoor soccer league. I couldn't have asked for more from a first, live game experience. The weather cleared up about 20 minutes before kickoff, and we were treated to a sunny, 75 degree afternoon. Among the players in the two teams were emerging U.S. Men's National Team stars, Brek Shea and Juan Agudelo, as well as living French legend, Thierry Henry. We scored some very excellent seats right in front of the beer garden and right behind the goal. The fans were rowdy and involved, singing songs and chants. To top it all off, FC Dallas won the game: 2-1. But, perhaps none of that would have mattered – except for the presence of the beer garden – without the hospitality of Matt and his friends. After a few preliminary and vital questions like “What is your favorite Coen brothers movie,” and “What soccer team do you support,” I was welcomed into the group. We spent the afternoon at the game cracking up and
cheering on "The Hoops" (FC Dallas' nickname, due to their red-and-white-striped uniforms). Afterward, we all walked over for a little post game celebration at great Mexican food place called Mattito's. All-in-all, a great day. On the drive home that night, I began thinking about my time at BSCENE. I've been afforded some pretty great opportunities here – from getting to enjoy some amazing concerts, to being able to attend some of the most entertaining and heartwarming parties and fundraisers around. But, perhaps the best thing about my time here is the connections I've been able to make within the community. Through my work at BSCENE I've been introduced to and become friends with tons of people who, otherwise, I would probably have never met. And, it hasn't always been a soccer game. It could be Business After Hours in Longview or the Tyler Cattle Barons' Gala. It could be advertisers or people we've collaborated with on stories. Regardless, they've all been unique, educational and entertaining, in their own way. Looking back over the list of folks I've met through BSCENE makes me very happy, but looking ahead to the countless more I'll meet, is even better.