novice-blogger

500,00 people are expected to converge in Belfast this weekend to pay tribute to arguably the worlds greatest ever footballer. This illustrates the immense loss of the man and the alluring effect that he had on so many people.

unfortunately, George also had a self-destruct button that is the curse of so many exceptionally talented individuals. He liked a drink and he liked his women. A player in the modern game would never be allowed to indulge himself in the lifestyle that George did. He was labeled 'the sixth Beatle' and he is now used as the archetype example of how a professional sports person should not conduct themselves off the field. But, he was also extremely witty concerning his social life. Here are a couple of quotes regarding his seditious lifestyle.

"I spent most of money on drink, women and fast cars....The rest I just squandered"

"I've had plenty of misses in my life - Ms. Canada, Ms. Australia and Ms. World"

I don't want to dwell on the mans 'miss' givings (no pun intended!), he should be remembered as an exceptional footballer who attracted so many people to the game. Its a tragic death. Bests mother died at 58 and was also an alcoholic. She only started to drink when she was 40 and it is believed that she started drinking because of a combination of the press coverage that the first superstar of football was attracting, but also an incident to do with Northern Ireland. George was due to play in a vital World Cup Qualifier for Northern Ireland in Russia on a Tuesday. He picked up a knock playing for United the previous Saturday, missed the trip to Russia but was fit to play again for United the following Saturday. Northern Ireland lost and a lot of people in the North were very angry. Georges family suffered as a result and people targeted them for abuse. George blamed himself for his mothers death and never really got over it.

As we discussed in class today, the journalistic morale of reporters has come to light regarding Georges Dad, Dickey Best. The only thing he said outside the hospital after his son's death was that he would appreciate it if the media would leave him and his family alone to grieve in piece. This hasn't happened and it is sad to see. Is this part and parcel of life? Theses journalists have to make a living as anyone else does. Or is there room for some sensitivity? I think his request should have bee granted but this is just another facet of the profession that does not endear itself to me.

Finally, In March, the great man suggested that an All-Ireland team should be formed to play against England. This should definitely go ahead as a fitting tribute to the man. It would be brilliant if it could take place every year - The George Best memorial game, or something - in honor of the man. Best was a northern protestant, but he was liberal and in no way prejudice. I would love to see the game go ahead, but unfortunately it may never happen. There is still an extremely bigoted element within Northern Irish football and these individuals would rather eat their own excrement than see a united Irish team. The death threats issued to former Northern Ireland captain Neil Lennon - because he was catholic - demonstrate the sectarian element still all too apparent in the North.