This is a post partly borrowed from my personal blog with up to the minute info.

I spent a few minutes yesterday skyping family back in the U.S. And the cafe I borrowed computer time from has shopkeepers speaking Arabic, of course I was typing on a Czech keyboard, speaking English on skype, and trying out phrases in Russian, French, German, and more all day long with opponents, fans, new friends, and strangers.

Thats a little taste of the internationalism of the tournament and this city. Chain teammates, non Chain friends, ultimate fans, teams and supporters from all over the world have descended on Prague in an impressive show of love for the game, spirit for the growth of the sport, and of course some good old fashioned competition.

After three days of competition, Chain had only played four games. But in the next two we played five… the variance is mainly due to rainouts on Tuesday. I was really looking forward to trading night last night and it didnt disappoint. Hundreds of folks were showing stuff off and bartering for coveted jerseys and accessories.

Disappointments so far have been the laundry situation and the time allowed for sightseeing and partying… Because Im leaving right after the tourney, last week was for the non ultimate stuff. Now, naturally Im most looking forward to the semifinals tomorrow against Sockeye or Ironside.

Not sure the photos will work, but Ive tried to attach an image of the Chain worlds jersey and a depiction of the scene after Doublewides 20 minute discussion with Sweden about a catch and spike on the goal line.

Hi all! Its been great to hear from Huddle founders and the many other contributors ahead of next month’s Worlds tournament. I appreciate the invitation to participate and send back reports about the competition and experience.

First off, my name’s Ben Spears and I live in Atlanta, GA, USA (proud host of the ‘96 Olympics). I learned about competitive ultimate in college in Washington, DC (played for the “g-dub” Hippos) and this is my fifth Chain Lightning season. The city of Atlanta has had a great ultimate culture for several decades – thanks mainly to organizers, lots of talent, and spirited played throughout the area – its no accident that elite teams do well here (including Ozone and others).

Coming off last year’s national championship, expectations and hopes for Chain Lightning 2010 are high. That championship and this Worlds trip are firsts for most of my teammates… and while I expect Chain to be in a good place this Fall to defend the UPA/USAU championship, the Worlds tournament is a rare opportunity for international competition and camaraderie — strong emphasis on both.

What I’m hoping to talk about in short and possibly rambling bursts during Worlds is the following:

1. the feel of international ultimate games, including communication, gift-giving, and general spirit between competing teams on the field
2. the Worlds experience, like having a week-long schedule of ultimate, leisure, tourism, and partying
3. the inter-cultural social scenes we find ourselves in in Prague, such as world cup bars and dance clubs, impromptu singing and storytelling on shuttles, sideline games and more

Since I’m starting my Europe travel tonight, I have already packed, made a list of my goals at the tournament, and printed my boarding pass. I’m excited! Feel free to send along ideas or questions, feedback or encouragement. I’m at benjamin (dot) spears (at) gmail (dot) com.

Looking forward to traveling, playing, and huddle-ing!