The news today came in shocking fashion.
My computer had gone down and when it came back up I received a press release from FC Dallas saying that former FC Dallas player and current broadcaster Bobby Rhine had passed away. How could this be? Only 35 years of age, two children and a wife, and a true gentleman.
This was a body blow, this was a hit to the soccer community and those that crossed the path of a man that had a truly infectious positive outlook.
I can’t say that I ever remember him not being upbeat in my dealings with him.
I will remember calling a Dynamo/FC Dallas game and thoroughly enjoying it with Bobby, two kindred spirits at work.
I had conversation with Bobby about growing the game and being an ambassador which he truly was recognized as at FC Dallas. FC Dallas knew that had a treasure that was begin to help take control of the soccer community through his work. He personally has put people in seats with his efforts on tv, radio and in the public and with his wonderful personality.
Bobby Rhine will be missed. Prayers and thoughts to his family and friends.
Bobby Rhine: Gentleman and ambassador will be missed…
September 6, 2011 5 Comments
Danish Inspirations
Fiesta Mart
Houston Web Design
Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine Institute
SportTalk 790
Zukowski, Bresenhan & Sinex, L.L.P.
Glenn- Very disturbing hearing of Bobby Rhine’s passing.Appreciated his all out playing style while in MLS.
He certainly got the most out of his ability, thru hustle and determination.
As MLS Direct Kick subscriber, he became familiar “voice” of FC Dallas broadcasts. Like yourself, his love of the beautiful game was evident, and he put his work ethic in growing FCD and MLS.
May the Lord give his young family strength and peace of mind.
Glenn,
As soon as I read the news on twitter I immediately remembered sitting next to Bobby Rhine at the 2010 World Cup Draw at a pub in Dallas. His excitement was truly infectious.
I remember him as a player who got a second life with the Dallas Burn as a defender. At that time I think he was the first player I had heard make that transition. A great competitor and a fair one. Too young to have passed.
Wow. So young. I enjoyed listening to his broadcasts.
He contributed so much to MLS. Before the league was aggressively signing international players (other than the occasional retiree who was here for 1 last paycheck), it was character guys like Bobby who really sold this game to fans, especially the little ones. They were the face of MLS and would do anything to help grow the sport here in this country. For their lack of skill in some respects, they really brought so much to the game here.
It seems he left us far too soon. Why? Who knows. Why was there a vicious tragedy that wiped away so many lives earlier today (side note: Pavol Demitra, as a nation, we already miss you so much. Thank you for all you were to all of us. Rest in Peace friend).
MLS should always tell the stories of guys like Bobby. The great players, with great skills and incredible talent, will always get top billing. But, without guys like Bobby, the great players wouldn’t be able to play the game we all love here. He, as a great suppoter of the game, will leave a more memorable legacy than he could possibly imagine.