Thomas Rongen, Thanks for the Memories

It cannot be disputed that Thomas Rongen will always remain a legendary figure in the hearts of Striker Likers. He spanned two generations of Likers by playing here in Fort Lauderdale during the NASL days, then staying through to see the Strikers win their only championship in 1989 with the ASL/APSL version of the team.

Recently, his actions are a bit disappointing. In case you missed it the U-20 US Men's National Team fell 1-2 to Guatemala last night and were eliminated from qualification for the U-20 World Cup. Thomas Rongen is the coach of the U-20 US Men's National Team.

Not acceptable.

Thomas, we love you as a Striker, but please, this is embarrassing.

Dolphin Stadium

Now that Lockhart Stadium, once the fortress of Striker power, has officially been condemned (for those of you unaware the stadium will be demolished to provide breathing room for the Baltimore Orioles' new spring training facility), a home for our future Strikers seems questionable.

Luckily they are signs of life in Broward County that people want soccer and they want it real bad. Last Saturday, Dolphin Stadium drew 20,000 plus (which might just be more than any Dolphin or Marlin game this year) for an international friendly between Honduras and Guatemala.

Could Dolphin Stadium be the future home of the Strikers? Highly unlikely, but the night's atmosphere and attendance proved yet again that we need soccer down here more often. Can I get a witness?