We’re expecting a betting frenzy over the next three weeks. Euro 2008 promises to be one of the greatest displays of soccer talent the world has ever seen. This is a highly emotional betting public we’re talking about; Croats will bet on Croatia, Spaniards will bet on Spain.

Germany goes about things a different way. Their national soccer team has made it into the Euro tournament stage nine times in a row since 1972, engineering three championships. It will be a very interesting clash of styles should they meet Spain in the finals - the favorite matchup on the Euro 2008 futures market at 9-1.

Spain, however, haven’t won this tournament since 1964 and haven’t been to the finals since 1984. The more familiar Germany-Italy (12-1) or Germany-France (12-1) pairings are on the board; Italy beat France on penalty kicks to win the 2006 World Cup, and both sides remain strong two years later.

David Beckham is getting paid some $250 million over the next five years to play soccer and sell merchandise in the United States. He is worth every penny and more.

The Los Angeles Galaxy made a sound investment. There is risk, of course – Becks could suffer a career-ending injury as easily as the next guy – but the Galaxy will make their money. Forbes magazine says Real Madrid made $600 million off Becks during his four years there.

Most people have trouble wrapping their heads around someone being worth $250 million to play a game – just ask Alex Rodriguez. And the fact that soccer isn’t exactly the king of American sports makes many a fan wonder if Beckham is worth all the attention, let alone the cash.

The world (America included) needs David Beckham. Forget about the soccer; for that matter, forget about the celebrity. David Beckham is a role model. Take a moment to read his story and you’ll see why.