Catasauqua’s boys’ soccer coach Josh Inman and Northampton’s soccer leader Chris Bastidas may not have a lot of things in common, but the veteran soccer coaches definitely share one recent passion - the World Cup.

Soccer’s prestigious tournament concluded July 19, but both of them thoroughly enjoyed every moment and will have moments to remember.

“You could call me a World Cup fanatic,” beamed Inman. “I have been overwhelmingly excited about this World Cup ever since the joint host bid was accepted and chosen by FIFA.”

“I watched as many matches as humanly possible including watching a bunch of replays or recordings to see how every team is playing. My goal was to watch every match that I possibly could.”

Inman and his wife along with their 3-year-old son and 8-month-old daughter were fortunate enough to purchase tickets for a group stage in Philadelphia.

For him and his family, it was a monumental moment.

“Who knows if the USA will ever get to host this great tournament again in our lifetimes, and we didn’t want to miss this opportunity,” noted Inman. “I started watching the World Cup every four years since I was as young as I can remember.

“This is the world’s game and this is the world’s tournament and we here in the USA I hope will understand the impact and attention that this tournament garners.”

In addition, Bastidas shares a deep passion for the tournament and the game.

“The World Cup has always been my favorite sporting event,” exclaimed Bastidas. “While I am a passionate fan of the Philadelphia Eagles and Duke basketball, the United States Men’s National Team sits at the very top of my sports hierarchy. Every four years, nothing compares to the excitement, anticipation, and emotion that comes with watching the U.S. compete on soccer’s biggest stage.”

Bastidas also considers himself fortunate to share a deeper tie. As a player, he participated in the youth Olympic Development Program (ODP) regional and national programs.

“My connection to the World Cup goes beyond being a fan,” explained Bastidas. “Wearing a USA jersey was something I dreamed about, and that experience created an even deeper appreciation for those who represent our country at the highest level.”

He did have the chance to attend a game at the last World Cup game in this country.

“Some of my favorite memories trace back to the 1994 World Cup in the United States,” added Bastidas. “I was fortunate enough to attend a match with my dad, an experience that remains one of the most special moments of my life.

“During every World Cup, I fully embrace the experience. I have worn a USA jersey every single day of the tournament so far and make it a point to watch every match possible.”

Bastidas knows it is much more than a game. He also enjoyed sharing the experience.

For me, the World Cup is more than a tournament,” reflected Bastidas. “It is a celebration of the sport I love, a connection to memories with my family. I watched the first USA game at (Bethlehem’s) Steel Stacks, and I loved the passion from the crowd, which was made up of soccer fans and USA fans.

“I loved seeing my former teammates and players and students that were also passionately cheering on the best country in the world.”