PROVO — Eddie Duplooy, executive member of the South African Football Association, stood on the sideline, Thursday, proudly promoting South Africa's women's national team as they played BYU.
He discussed the difference in styles of play, regarding strength and quickness, and oddly, the weather. Here it was a balmy 65-degree day, with Utahns walking around in shorts and sandals, and Duplooy says, "The cold weather is a bit different for us."
That's just one of the many differences between Utah and South Africa, but the two-week exhibition tour by South Africa is all about spreading and experiencing the global game.
"We're going to play as many teams as possible, and hopefully learn from their styles and compliment our styles," said Duplooy.
BYU ended up beating South Africa twice Thursday, 4-0 and 3-1, but win or lose it was all fun.
"We came in not really knowing anything about them," said BYU coach Jennifer Rockwood. "So we came out in the first 15 minutes ready to go and we got a good jump on them."
The two squads definitely play separate styles. The Cougars spread the field and use precise passing to break down an opponent, whereas the South Africans try and break down a team by dribbling through them.
Before the South Africans return home, they'll play eight more games, see the sights of Utah, and probably interact with many more hospitable Utahns.
"The people here are very friendly. The accommodations are perfect," said Duplooy.
South Africa plays at Weber State Saturday at 11 a.m., at Utah State Friday, April 28 at 1 p.m. and then they'll close out the tour Saturday, April 29 with a pair of games at Utah. The first is at 9 a.m. and the second at 4:30 p.m. In addition, the South Africans will play three youth teams during their stay.
The South Africans aren't the only team going global. BYU's soccer team is heading for Europe Monday to play four games, two in Paris and two more in London.
"We're going over there to play four games, but we're also going to have fun," said Rockwood.
You can reach James Edward by e-mail at jedward@desnews.com