Free Beer

From DCFanguide

The "Free Beer Movement" was proposed by several internet soccer bloggers in 2006. Stated briefly, the idea is that longtime fans of D.C. United and other MLS teams should invite a friend to a game and then buy that new fan a beer.

What makes this simple idea so appealing to so many is that if we soccer fans get someone to experience in person the thrill of the game and the spectacle of the passionate support, that person will be hooked. So many preconceptions about the sport don't hold up after you've actually seen it for yourself, up close and personal. There's a reason it's the biggest sport on the planet. It's exciting, full of thrills and chills and spills, and the more you know about it, the more exciting it can be. Those of us who have been fans for a while know that, but fans of other sports and people who don't much like sports often don't.

Having someone around to explain the nuances of the game to the new fan is an important part of Free Beer as well. Fans of other sports will understand most of the general principles of soccer, but some of the finer points (like the offside rule, when the goalkeeper can handle the ball, and who the heck are those people over there with the big flags) need a little explaining from someone who knows.

That's why we wrote this Fan Guide. We're fans, and we know (and love) this game. If you're reading this, then it's because you're interested in learning more about soccer. We're here for you, and we want you to experience all the sport has to offer. While we can't buy each and every one of you a beer, at least until next payday, we hope this Fan Guide might be the next best thing.

Vamos United!