Thursday, June 17th 2021 - In the context of the ongoing UEFA European Football Championship, we spoke with Damien Brülhart to learn more about the Swiss Soccer Club New York as well as his take on Switzerland's chances during the 2020 UEFA European Football Championship.

Tell us about the Swiss Soccer Club in NY?

The Swiss Soccer Club of New York was created in 1963 by a group of amateur soccer players who wanted to share their passion for the game. Since then, it has been an excuse to meet with fellow countrymen in the Big Apple. It is more than a weekly soccer game, as the game would usually be folllowed by either a well deserved beer or a Swiss dinner. We had a "Stammtisch" at the Montblanc Restaurant* where we would meet for a Swiss dinner every month. In the old days, the player’s wives would gather there and play “Jass”.

Because of COVID-19 the club games were interrupted for the first time in 50 years, as we used to play indoors in a school. In spring we have restarted playing informally outside.

© Swiss Soccer Club New York

How complicated is it to play soccer in Manhattan - logistically?

To be honest it’s a blessing to have an indoor game where you know you can play all year round - no matter what. We got stuck outside a couple of times, because they closed the school for winter storms in NYC. Other than that you can play with leagues or pick up games but it’s usually much more pricey and less convenient than playing in Chelsea in the heart of Manhattan.

Do you play other teams? Do other countries have similar clubs?

We do organize a game every year in Cabarete, Dominican Republic, where we play a local team of expats. It’s also a good excuse to leave NYC in March - April when you are starting to be fed up with the winter.

I have heard of other teams (UK, Russia, …), usually people that work for their countries UN Mission.

What kind of relationship do New Yorker’s have with soccer?

New Yorkers and the US in general are getting to know football… I mean soccer... every year a bit more. We have a couple of Americans that play with us, usually people that work in a Swiss company.

Do you notice an increased interest in the sport?

With every World Cup you notice an increased interest in the US. But we are far away from the crowds you see everywhere else in the world.

And last but not least, with the exciting 2020 UEFA European Football Championship ongoing, how do you judge Switzerland’s chances to win the title?

I don’t see Switzerland winning the Euro, but let’s hope they make us dream and go into the playoffs rounds. Hopp Schwiitz!

© Swiss Soccer Club New York