Businesses like The Royal Mile and The Station aren't just places to watch football, they're also places where friendships are formed.
Emma Brust-Kahn, Conor O'Neill, Ben Niesen
May 6, 2024 2:24pm CDT
May 6, 2024 2:24pm CDT
DES MOINES, Iowa — One of the best parts of football is the camaraderie on and off the field. That's why some local businesses are using the “beautiful game” to unite Iowans.
Courtney Yazel is the manager of the Royal Mile, one of several Des Moines establishments that hosts a growing number of passionate soccer fans and dedicated fan clubs.
“It's an experience like being in the middle of that crowd, having everyone around you cheering you on like everyone else,” Yazer said. “It's an experience.”
One team, Tottenham Hotspur, is supported by the Iowa Spurs and meets at The Station early in the morning on game days.
“We're really grateful that places like the Royal Mile and The Station opened up for us early,” said Iowa Spurs Chairman Ben Miles.
Businesses like The Royal Mile and The Station aren't just places to watch football, they're also places where friendships are formed.
“They're my friends now, so it's not just about soccer,” one fan told Local 5.
These camaraderie make the game-watching experience even better, as fans experience “the good and the bad” with other people.
“When you score the winning goal or something in that game, it's like there's nothing else like it,” said Phan.
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