The Vuvuzela

The Vuvuzela has gotten a lot of heat from World Cup players and fans over the past few days, with some people calling for its ban from games.  Players say that it makes communication hard, and armchair fans say that they prefer more traditional singing in the stands.

Here are some quotes from players, found in this Globe and Mail article.

"My kids have been on the phone [with me], and they want two.” – England defender Jamie Carragher


“It is impossible to communicate; it’s like being deaf.” – Argentina’s Lionel Messi

“The problem is you just can’t communicate. You really have to use eye contact.” – Denmark goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen

“This is our culture. This is how we create our national rhythm and dance.” – Lucas Radebe, captain of South Africa’s World Cup team in 1998 and 2002

“Vuvuzelas are here to stay and will never be banned.” – Rich Mkhondo, a spokesman for the local World Cup organizing committee

“To be exposed to this type of volume raises the risk of immediate inner-ear trauma.” – Christian Gelis, a professor of biophysics at the University of Montpellier

I don't mind them.  I'm more interested in the action on the field, although I wouldn't mind hearing the traditional football songs from other nations too.