So why Hertha? In the simplest of terms, I’ve been to Berlin. For more than a few days, even. I spent two months living in Kreuzberg, getting my German up to the level of about a German 5th-grader, which for someone who’s always struggled with languages is pretty good. Two months is not a very long time, but for a young American like myself savoring any international living, it’s long enough for me to form an attachment. It’s also long enough for me to gain affection for a city’s team. While they may not be a Bundesliga glamor club, and while they may have been tipped for relegation at the beginning of the season, they’re who I care about. The city charmed me. The least I can do is cheer for their team, who have had a not-terrible start to the season. I’m pleased, anyway.

And the first real game I’ve ever been to (Real Madrid playing DC United at Qwest Field does not count) was Hertha. I went to watch them beat Stuttgart early this season, before it became clear that Stuttgart would collapse under the pressure of being champions. While I can’t say that going to the Olympiastadion made me fall in love with football- I’d gone because I already was- it did mean that Hertha would always hold a place in my affections.

So here I am, back in Seattle, with a new GolTV subscription and a desire to write and learn more about my new team. I can’t claim to be the most knowledgeable Hertha fan, but at least I’m enthusiastic. For now, that’ll have to be enough. For now, anyway.

I’ll have a review of Saturday’s game up tomorrow.