Dave Sez

Too Much Adu

This is a really good (and long) article about Freddy Adu and his first year in the MLS. The expectations and time demands on him are incredible. He hasn't had the kind of season on the field that he would have liked, but this article gives a good look into a big reason why. A pro athlete, even a fourteen-year-old one, needs to be available to work on his game nearly 24 hours a day. Between games, practices and travel, he needs time to think about his game, to watch film and to mingle with teammates. That's what the other guys are doing, so if you aren't, you are at a disadvantage. For Adu, who obviously has more to learn than anyone else, this is particularly true.

At the same time, I can understand his and MLS' desire to get out and be seen as much as possible. Unfair as it may be, Freddy Adu is the face of US soccer's future. He seems to be handling that very well and he knows that you need to strike while the iron is hot. Hopefully next season, the buzz will have died down enough that he'll be able to more fully devote himself. Maybe he should consult with other top stars like Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods to see how they balance(d) their incredible desire to work hard to be successful with their off-field endeavors and endorsements.