Finally get back to track, will keep update regularly, yet can't say how regular it is, targeting a weekly update. But I have the best reason that I was not updating last month, the 2010 World Cup.
It is such a big thing for Chinese, even we've only being qualified for one time in the whole World Cup history, and not because of our strength but thanks to Japan/Korea who were hosting that year, therefore we got one more quote for Asian team. I remember that year I was in high school and we stopped the class to watch the game, which China lost 0-4 to Brazil.
This year, again, China did not advance to the final 32. Seeing all these enthusiasm from fans, just really think China must bear the "if not win go to coal mining " oath to advance in the final 32 in 2014 Brazil for the following reasons:
- Promote nationalism. Nationalism is always a core value to promote as seen in any media products controlled by central government, yet this every four year sports event is probably the best opportunity to do so. Especially when World Cup has been interpreted with political references, as a low rank team, if China can compete with traditionally strong European teams or South America teams and even win a game, it will bring the confidence that cant be achieved anywhere else.
- Harmonious society. Another core value. During this World Cup month, Chinese media forget the flooding, the drought, the coal mine explosion, all the front pages are covered by World Cup teams, players, their girl friends and wives. So do Internet users. Forget all the social problems, all of us are totally get entertained by the game. This is just what being dreamed by the SARFT.
- Economy Boost. The news says Spain's TV rating hits the highest record since the team first time advanced to the Final and won the trophy. The total audience reached about 15.6 million. China, on the other hand, totally not of our business but we contributed 52 million audiences in the month. Imagine if China ever wins the game, how many commercials broadcasters can sell and how many beer we can drink.
- Chinese Brand. Even this year, we've seen Ying-Li, this Chinese energy company's ad board in every single game. Imagine if China team gets there, how many companies will be eager to sponsor the game and promote their brand.
- Grassroot spirits. Since modern professional football starts from the low-income working class in England, it still shares this grassroot identity and local awareness even though some international clubs are highly commercialized. Football still brings this hard-working spirit. It can inspire some workers in southern Chinese factories, like the Faxconn, to dream something or expect something than hopelessly work the the cents.
- Professional League. If some points above are some kinda of joking, this is crucial. Anyhow, the ultimate goal is not just the World Cup but the professional league that can nature talents, bring progress, win fans' respect and make money.
