Costa Rica Asks for Rematch 

Last week the soccer game between the United States and Costa Rica was played in anything but the ordinary environment. In what is being declared "The Snow Globe Game", Costa Rica is protesting the conditions and asking for the qualifying match to be replayed. The game was more than just a friendly but soccer is typically an outdoor sport and should be treated as one. In baseball, lacrosse, and other outdoor sports, weather is a factor that athletes should expect to deal with and be comfortable to play in under any circumstances. Soccer already faces criticism as being labeled a "soft" sport in comparison to football and other high contact sports; this game does not help the cause. The game has referees for a reason and if their discretion does not permit any form of delay or rescheduling for weather conditions, then players should continue to play. While a protest has been issued, I believe the U.S.A victory should stand to set a precedent for the sport.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/25/costa-rica-us-rematch-world-cup-qualifier-snow-game_n_2949977.html

- Erika Schmid