SoccerPod
The soccerPod hosts long-form, heart to heart interviews with past legends of the game of soccer. There is a massive market for soccer in the United States today, but it wasn’t always this way. We go back in time and talk to legends from the prior era, whose stories are not well known in the United States. We talk about playing with no shin guards, the apparent impossibility of a straight red card and smoking cigarettes at halftime. We talk about the legendary games they were a part of, the goals they scored and the trophies that they won. But we also explore the time and culture in which our guests grew up – whether it was, as a kid - seeing the Berlin Wall go up in their backyard, or going to sleep to the sounds of IRA bombs in 1980’s Belfast. From childhood through their professional careers, on to where they are today – our guests’ have all had interesting rides – and we explore them here.
For those who love it, the beautiful game connects us all. So relax, kick back and if you are into soccer talk with a nod towards nostalgia – or you just want to hear some fascinating stories that will make you laugh - give us a go.
SoccerPod
Colin Hendry
What do you call a Scotsman in the 2nd round of the World Cup?
- A referee.
Paul Gascoigne told me that joke in loving gest of his friend, Colin Hendry – whom he has a bit of history on the pitch with.
Colin Hendry’s first job was delivering mail in the Nortwest Rolling Hills of Scotland. One pound fifty per week was the going wage, and it was always cold. But like so many – a ball was always at his feet – and he would progress through the youth system of Scotland without issue.
He would go on to play for some of the biggest clubs in the world – including being a part of that most famous of derbies – The Old Firm – for which ‘rivalry’ doesn’t quite seem the right word.
He would captain his side in the 98 World Cup where Scotland opened the tournament. And when you play that opening match of the World Cup the entire world is watching – all the other teams are watching.
And on that day Colin was tasked with defending a Brazilian side that featured their captain, Dunga, Rivaldo, Bebeto, Cafu, Roberto Carlos and their young number 9 – Ronaldo Nozario. One of many memorable games in a career that spanned nearly 2 decades.
He has had his share of tragedy - losing his wife – Denise - at a young age after a cosmetic surgery accident. And like so many players of his era, he lost his way a bit with drink and gambling during this rough stretch.
But he is good now – fit, happy, still playing a bit and helping his son navigate his professional career. I had a lovely sit with Colin on a gorgeous day in South London, and I hope you enjoy it here – Soccerpod #8 – Colin Hendry.
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