June 24, 2010 by kevinserwin
Updates from Jady Nunan:
The atmosphere here in South Africa is like nothing I’ve ever seen. From the moment our plane touched down in Johannesburg, we were greeted with open arms. South African hospitality is similar to that of the southern hospitality we might find in the States. Within hours of arriving to the Fan Fest in Pretoria, a young South African couple invited us to a traditional braai, or meat grill, and it did not disappoint. Thanks to Tertius and Melanie, we sampled some traditional dishes and enjoyed more bbq than we have ever seen. They invited 15 of their friends over to meet us and show us some traditional South African dancing. Tertius, Melanie and their friends have shown us how welcoming and kind this country really is.
South African pride can be seen everywhere you go. The country’s flag is on every billboard, every car and every person in 
the country, even the foreigners, are behind Bafana Bafana (“the boys”). I wish I could say we made it in time for the US vs. England game, but we were delayed in Ghana and our tickets went unused. The airport in Accra had the game televised in the terminal, and it was packed with Ghanaians cheering for the US. The atmosphere at Ellis Park 5 days later against Slovenia was the best sporting experience I’ve ever been a part of. The pride and support of the Americans fans for their team was amazing, and the noise level in the park from the chants was far louder than the extremely annoying vuvuzelas. No, I will not be bringing one back with me.
Last night, we experienced an amazing game at Soccer City between Brazil and Cote d’Ivoire. We arrived four hours before so we could experience the festivities at the stadium beforehand, and there was plenty to see and do. Dribbling exhibitions, fan shops, Coca-Cola dancers, a 3-D experience and face painting were among the 
activities we saw. The stadium itself is magnificent, and would rival any sports stadium in the US. The game was electric, and the Brazil and Cote d’Ivoire fans were amazing. All 84,500 fans were treated to a great evening, and some great goals.
We’re looking forward to Wednesday’s match up with Algeria; I know you will be with us in full force at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria. U-S-A!
