Whether you are Dutch, Spanish or just a Saturday morning soccer family, yesterday's World Cup final had many area fans pacing, cheering and biting their fingernails.

The sport, extremely popular in Bedford, had plenty of devotees watching Sunday as the final two teams of the 2010 tournament fought for the coveted title of World Cup champion.  It wasn't until the 116th minute of the game that Spain scored the winning goal, making this their first-ever World Cup victory.

The Netherlands, who were unbeaten in the tournament, had made it to the finals twice before, both in 1974 and 1978.  And as Spain reveled in its win, there were some disappointed fans.

Hans Morefield, who lives in Katonah and is half-Dutch, spent his childhood summers in the Netherlands. His sadness over the loss of his homeland team was palpable.

"This would have been a once-in-a-lifetime win and a big relief for Dutch fans who have long felt it could be possible," he said. "I've been in touch with my family and friends in Holland almost daily - we have all been sharing in the excitement together."

Playing the "beautiful game" is now practically a rite of passage for kids in suburban towns across the country. Lewisboro Soccer Club president Doug Housman says that the league, which serves all the Bedford towns, has grown steadily each year since it started in 1974.

"We will have 900 people playing this fall, from the pre-K level all the way to adult teams who compete," Housman said.   He feels that the accessibility of the sport has brought the large numbers of children, adults and parent-coaches to the game. 

He added that everyone in the club was especially enthusiastic about the World Cup. "It has been great for the kids to understand that soccer is a global game and people are very passionate about it. Watching the skills of the World Cup players has helped them to see what it takes to be able to compete at that level."

The reasons for soccer's ever-growing popularity are simple, according to a former professional soccer player and Olympic team member Trevor Franklin. "I grew up playing soccer in Bedford Hills," he says. "The open fields are well-kept and there are opportunities for kids of all sizes and levels to play. Parents know that with a pair of shorts and a ball, their kids are out playing a safe and wonderful sport."

Now the world's top players will turn their attention to preparing for the 2014 World Cup, set to be played in Brazil.  Right along with them, our fields will be full of eager kickers, booters and staunch goaltenders of all ages.