Saturday, May 16, 2015

The Best There Is. The Best There Was. The Best There Ever Will Be.

I was first introduced to Steven Gerrard around 2005. He first appeared to me, as my friends played the video game series FIFA. As a long time Beatles fan, I naturally chose Liverpool FC as my club to support. Video game Stevie G. would run around the field as I constantly held the "sprint/turbo" button scoring goals, flying into tackles, and generally being as dynamic of a player as I, a non-soccer fan could imagine. Little did I know, real life Steven Gerrard played with the same energy and passion as a player who was constantly in "turbo" mode. After seeing some live games on television in the earliest hours of the morning, watching highlights on YouTube, and an incredible trip to Liverpool, I fell in love with the sport, with the team, and with the player.

Steven Gerrard takes his Anfield bow today, in what will certainly be an emotional day on Merseyside. His influence over the 17 years as a Liverpool player is immeasurable. A local boy, who as he describes it, "has lived his dream," has dragged his club to victories that have almost been as unlikely as his story. Signed by the club at age eight, and debuting at 18 in the first team, Gerrard has been a lifelong servant of the club. His connection to the club is unmatched, as is his reign as the club captain; The Scouse captain, one of the city's own. In an era, where fewer and fewer stars stay in one place, with one team, Steven has been the exception. He has passed up numerous opportunities to join other clubs; clubs where he may have been able to win more trophies and personal accolades. He understands that winning with Liverpool, at Liverpool, for Liverpool, is more meaningful than winning anything anywhere else. When he kisses the badge, it is not an action of insincerity. He knows the weight of the shirt. He understands the triumph and tragedy that surrounds the club. His cousin was the youngest of the 96 to perish in the Hillsborough disaster of 1989. Steven Gerrard is Liverpool.

Today, as he bids adieu to his boyhood club, Gerrard serves as a reminder to all of us; dreams do come true. He is loved by so many fans that have been able, that have been privileged to witness his career. Gerrard as the energetic phenom that burst onto the scene. Gerrard as one of the world's best players of his generation. Gerrard as the servant to such a special club; a true idol. Steven Gerrard has made a kid from some 5000 odd miles away, feel a connection to a city, to a fanbase that truly adores a local "lad" come good. His career is summed up well by the call of one of his most inconic goals and moments.

"Oh you BEAUTY! What a hit son!"

Thanks you Stevie G. Best of luck out here in California and of course, You'll Never Walk Alone.

No comments: