DES MOINES, Iowa — One of the best parts of soccer is the camaraderie, both on and off the field. That's why some local businesses are using "the beautiful game" to bring Iowans together.
Courtney Yazel is manager of The Royal Mile, one of several Des Moines establishments hosting an increasing amount of enthusiastic soccer fans and dedicated fan clubs.
"It's an experience to be like in the middle of that crowd. Having them like all cheer around you," Yazel said. "It's an experience."
One team, Tottenham Hotspur, is supported by the Iowa Spurs, who meet at The Station on early matchday mornings.
"We're really thankful for places like The Royal Mile and The Station here for opening up early for us," said Iowa Spurs Chairman Ben Miles.
Businesses like The Royal Mile and The Station are more than just places to watch soccer: They're places where friendships are formed.
"They're my friends now, so it's not just about soccer," one fan told Local 5.
Those friendships make the experience of watching a game all the better, as fans experience the "highs and lows" with other people.
"When we do you know get that game winning goal or something then it's just like there's nothing else like it," a fan said.