Hours after watching the Colorado Rapids celebrate their 2-1 MLS Cup win in Toronto, Schellas Hyndman, Clark Hunt and I stood before the team, office staff, family and fans with a clear message.
This is not the end. It’s only the beginning – a foundation for the future of Dallas soccer and a commitment to finish in 2011 what we started in 2010.
With the 2010 MLS Coach of the Year Hyndman at the helm and the MLS Volkswagen MVP David Ferreira orchestrating the attack, this team did more than earn a trip to its first MLS Cup. Win, lose or draw, FC Dallas had its best year in its 15-year franchise history.
Kevin Hartman shattered the MLS single-season goals against average mark. We all knew he was good. You don’t claim as many league goalkeeping marks as he has without being good. But in November “El Gato” was legendary. His performances at Rio Tinto Stadium and the Home Depot Center belong on highlight reels.
Daniel Hernandez imposed his will in the midfield. A busted right knee sent him to the team’s training room for frequent treatments, but the captain didn’t care what it took, as long as it got him back on the field on game day. He showed character, heart and sheer determination in leading his hometown team. When the final whistle blew after 120 exhausting minutes of hard-fought soccer, he stood before his team and told them to hold their heads high. He could cope with heartbreak in Toronto because he loves this team. And quite frankly, what’s not to love?
When did we know this team was special? Was it Eric Avila’s improbable low, curling shot in stoppage time for a last gasp tie against Columbus on April 10? David Ferreira’s golazo at Seattle? How about the side’s first win at Houston in franchise history?
When were we sure? Did the 19-game unbeaten streak seal it? Or was it the dominating 3-0 win over L.A. in the Western Conference Final?
Brek Shea wreaked havoc on the wings. Atiba Harris took care of the dirty work, outmuscling opponents and winning 50-50 balls. Dax McCarty was everywhere. Marvin Chavez, “El hijo del viento”, sped around defenders, always managing to get there in time for that seemingly impossible touch. Milton Rodriguez and Jeff Cunningham gave defenders fits. The back line gave, but never broke, holding steady, covering for one another, getting forward in the attack while remaining unified on defense. Regardless of who was in the mix – Jair Benitez, Heath Pearce, Ugo Ihemelu, George John, Jackson, Bruno Guarda, Zach Loyd, Eric Alexander – they moved in cohesion with seamlessly interchangeable parts.
And there you were – chanting, drum-banging, flag-waving, driving to Salt Lake, flying to L.A., flying, some of you even driving, across the border to Toronto. Always, you were there.
We wanted to hoist that MLS Cup. We wanted it for each other. We wanted it for you. But the chilly Toronto night belonged to Colorado and our hearts ached for the boys in stripes.
The 2010 Dallas side exemplified a special kind of team, a team that always finds a way, always playing for each other, always fighting for the shirt. They refused to stop fighting for the Cup. So raise your glass, Dallas, and toast your team.
I know I am.
I’m sure I am.
I’m Dallas ‘til I die.
-Doug Quinn