The Soccer Man - Sports Illustrated

Sports Illustrated June 10, 2013...It is not unusual for SI to have some small soccer blurb in the magazine, but this issue features 4-stories. As part of the scorecard portion of the magazine mention is made of Brian McBride's goal in the 2002 World Cup against Portugal. Next is a fine article on Jurgen Klinsmann selection of Clint Dempsey as US team captain in "Captain In a Crunch" by Grant Wahl. then there is the Dan Patrick Interview "Just My Type" with LA Galaxy's Robbie Rogers.

By far the most touching story comes on the back page Point After feature by Phil Taylor "The Inspiring, Tragic Journey of The Soccer Man". Richard Swanson had planned to dribble a soccer ball from the Space Needle in Seattle to Rio for the World Cup, using a One World blue soccer ball. The walk came from the passion of the game and to promote the One World Futbol Project. Unfortunately 14 days into his journey, in which he found generous public support, he was killed when he was hit by a truck on the roadside...

A sad ending to a hopeful dream, one that will touch the lives of may people for years to come...