On Thursday, October 10, 2019, the Columbus Crew broke ground. Again. The team of firsts became the first MLS club to commence construction of a second soccer-specific stadium, replacing the pioneering erector set known as MAPFRE Stadium with a modern marvel that will serve as a capstone to Columbus’ thriving Arena District. A six-foot mound … Continue reading Crew Groundbreaking II: Scenes From the Sequel
Columbus Crew
BOOK PRE-ORDER: “A Massive Collection, Volume 1”
I am thrilled to announce that my new book A Massive Collection, Volume 1 is currently available for an exclusive pre-sale via the Nordecke. The pre-sale runs now through 11:59pm on October 24, 2019. In furtherance of supporting not only the Columbus Crew on the field, but also the Columbus community off it, the Nordecke … Continue reading BOOK PRE-ORDER: “A Massive Collection, Volume 1”
Missing 2019 Playoffs Hearkens to 2003
After last Saturday's last-gasp collapse that resulted in 1-1 draw in Vancouver, rather than a 1-0 victory, Columbus Crew coach Caleb Porter lamented, "If we could see out a game this year we’d be in the playoffs." They couldn't and they aren't. The Crew were officially eliminated from the playoffs on Wednesday night, ironically because … Continue reading Missing 2019 Playoffs Hearkens to 2003
Coming Soon: A Massive Collection, Vol. 1
Since there is no Crew game this weekend, seems like a good time for a Crew-related announcement. This fall, I'll have a new Crew book available. A Massive Collection, Volume 1 contains 43 stories spanning from 1997-2019. There are long-lost tales from the early days, some popular favorites, and three stories exclusive to the book, … Continue reading Coming Soon: A Massive Collection, Vol. 1
Sirk’s Notebook: #HellisReal (8/10/19)
The first-ever MLS meeting between the Columbus Crew and FC Cincinnati lived up (or down) to its billing on Saturday night. Hell was indeed real as the 2-2 draw produced torment for both sides. Cincinnati blew a 2-0 lead. Columbus stormed back but dropped two points at home to the worst team in the league … Continue reading Sirk’s Notebook: #HellisReal (8/10/19)
Hell is Real Preview: Facts About Our New Rival
Saturday at MAPFRE Stadium marks the first Hell is Real match in MLS play between the Columbus Crew and FC Cincinnati. The rivalry derives its sobriquet from the ominous billboard on I-71 asserting the veracity of unspeakable eternal punishment. It’s worth noting that the sign is situated such that it faces the people driving away … Continue reading Hell is Real Preview: Facts About Our New Rival
#ThankYouSigi: A Few Quick Induction Reactions
In the course of my recent conversations with folks about Sigi Schmid, I asked them for their reaction to his upcoming induction into the Crew's Circle of Honor. Here's what they had to say, with the caveat that my conversations with Brad Evans and Steven Lenhart took place during the winter, before the induction was … Continue reading #ThankYouSigi: A Few Quick Induction Reactions
#ThankYouSigi: Thursdays at Ruby’s
NOTE: On Saturday, June 29, the Columbus Crew will induct Sigi Schmid into the Circle of Honor. This is one of several stories I am writing in advance of the ceremony. An updated list of stories will be kept HERE. For tickets to Saturday night's game and induction ceremony, click HERE. Sigi Schmid was … Continue reading #ThankYouSigi: Thursdays at Ruby’s
#ThankYouSigi: Katie Witham and the Extra Mile
NOTE: On Saturday, June 29, the Columbus Crew will induct Sigi Schmid into the Circle of Honor. This is one of several stories I am writing in advance of the ceremony. An updated list of stories will be kept HERE. For tickets to Saturday night's game and induction ceremony, click HERE. Whenever anyone is starting … Continue reading #ThankYouSigi: Katie Witham and the Extra Mile
#ThankYouSigi: Danny Pays it Forward
NOTE: On Saturday, June 29, the Columbus Crew will induct Sigi Schmid into the Circle of Honor. This is one of several stories I am writing in advance of the ceremony. An updated list of stories will be kept HERE. For tickets to Saturday night's game and induction ceremony, click HERE. Danny O’Rourke and … Continue reading #ThankYouSigi: Danny Pays it Forward