The Chase

The old cliche says 'the thrill of the chase is always better than the catch.'

In South Africa, the U.S. soccer team was that guy you couldn't help but root for, chasing after the girl of his dreams, the one he had never gotten before and no one thought he could. It all starts against England. He proves he has some game. The big man on campus slips up and gives him a chance.

Against Slovenia, he thinks he's defeated, that she doesn't really like him. But he doesn't give up. He showers her with unexpected gifts until he gets to go on the first date that to his detriment is ruined by an annoying friend.

Then, it all comes down to Algeria. It's do or die. He knows he has to make a move or she'll forever forget him, and he'll be relegated to the back of the line, behind Jock A and B. So, he continues to chase, knowing this is it. Heart beating, he misses some chances, but in his last gasp of desperation, it happens. He defies his doubters. He kisses the girl, in that cliche movie scene, seemingly perfect moment.

He's ecstatic, goes home and cries tears of joy. Maybe he has finally made his mark. It feels like ultimate victory. But then, there's the day after...

They pass by each other crossing the green and all her friends laugh. Shoot, maybe he wasn't as cool as he thought.

Later on, she's by herself. They exchange a smile and a glimmer of hope radiates through him again. It's not over. But he still has to make a move. He can't just sit back and wait now. Summer's near and the school year is almost over.

She has some extra time after class and they talk. She abruptly tells him, 'no.' He doesn't want to believe it. Keeps searching for answers 'til the very last second, when she says 'I have to go now. You're a nice guy though.'

The nice guy had his moment. But he still didn't get the girl. He'll never forget the feeling of jubilation, when he was on top of the world, when everyone was watching and talking about him.

He'll always wonder what could have been. If he spoiled the best chance he may have ever had. It was almost all chase, very little catch. But boy, was the chase a thrill.