I freqently get asked what the most memorable moment has been in my career but because I am long winded and love conversation I can never limit myself to just one.
In 1999 I subbed into my first MLS game at Mile High Stadium donning the “old school” Colorado Rapids kit. At that moment it was easily the pinnacle of my soccer days because I felt it rewarded me for years of dedication to the game. I have always remembered that feeling and have the great Mooch Myernick to thank for it.
The second memory that crops up is coming back from four goals down in 2003 against the Galaxy in the quarterfinals of the playoffs. In my opinion it stands as the greatest comeback as well as the best game in MLS history. I had been released from LA the previous off-season and picked up by San Jose shortly thereafter so there was a bit of venom involved for me which made it all the more rewarding. The number one memory for me though will never be replaced! It was getting beat 2-0 by DC United in the third week of the 2006 MLS season. It was my first time back on the field after blowing my knee out in 2005 and it was euphoric. Any one that has suffered an injury will probably agree that returning to the pitch is better than any win or accolade that you can receive. I enjoy the game more than ever before and often try to re-live the feeling of that da because of what it did for me and my career. If there are any other top three’s you want to know feel free to ask. Until next week GO USA!
Craig Waibel