International scene grows on Las Vegas soccer star

Friday, July 21, 2006 | 7:49 a.m.

South Africa is a great place. Like every country, it has its bad places and really nice places. It's definitely a Third World country within a First World country. At times, I do miss the States, but the family I'm staying with here makes me feel at home every day.

It's winter here, but beautiful with temperatures in the 80s. At first, it was a bit strange because Vegas is unique. Everywhere else in the world just seems so different to me. I definitely feel like I'm in another country, for the simple fact that every place and residence is heavily guarded with barbed-wire fences, gates and security guards because of the crime.

But I've felt safe. Johannesburg is very cosmopolitan and civilized. People dress nice here, too. Or as the native people say, "You dress smart."

The thing I love most about this country is their passion for soccer. Everywhere you go, no matter the time or place, there is a soccer game being shown. Kids play in the dirt or streets, sometimes barefoot.

The Bidvest training facilities are excellent. I know I've earned the respect of the players on the team by how they pick me first in a scrimmage, or how they interact with me on the pitch. It's that feeling when you know you can be counted on, and it's a great feeling. I've definitely found out more about myself as a player when I play with a new group of people, especially outside the U.S.

I always wonder if I will be good enough or how I will rate - athletically, physically or mentally - in comparison to other players.

We had our first scrimmage on July 4, and I didn't make a single mistake. I hope it has helped make their decision easy, but the team is still waiting to see if it has the spot, as well as the funds, for an international player. Whether the team signs me or not, this has been a great experience for me and I know where I stand in soccer.

I also want my mom, dad, sister, grandparents, and of course my girlfriend Leslie, to know how much I miss them.

- Boomer