When you think of defense and US soccer one name comes to mind, Eddie Pope. The quiet man in the middle has been the face of the United States Men’s National Team for a long time and more recently
Real Salt Lake. This year saw an end to both Eddie’s Club and National Team careers. As a season ticket holder for all of RSL’s first 3 seasons I’ve had the pleasure of watching what I think has been the best football player the
U.S. has ever produced for many games. I’m sad to see him go. I think the National Team is in good hands with Carlos Bocanegra but no one will ever truly replace Pope’s play in the middle. This will be a hard thing to swallow next year as an RSL fan. His absence has left a gapping hole.
Up next for the man will hopefully be a position in the RSL Front Office as he has stated he wants to stick around in the MLS before he heads to his next goal, coaching a college team.
I’ll end with a big and understated “thank you” to Eddie for giving my nation and home club something to cheer for all these years! You will be missed! LONG LIVE #23!!
