Bob Lenarduzzi, Whitecaps FC president, has finally given fans what they wanted - a professional soccer team and now, his own book. Long before he became the president of Vancouver Whitecaps FC, he was a gifted player and an out-spoken advocate for soccer. His new book, Bob Lenarduzzi: A Canadian Soccer Story, co-authored by long-time sports journalist Jim Taylor, pays homage to Bob’s career and all he has done for the grass-roots growth of the sport.
“Jim has been a journalist since the beginning of my playing days and I’ve always greatly enjoyed his writing,” said Lenarduzzi. “It was such a pleasure to sit down and chronicle my journey with him. My hope is that people will enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed sharing it.”
Not to be missed are Lenarduzzi’s thoughts on the future of the sport in Canada and the direction he feels it will be heading in the coming years. As well, a real highlight is the many stories about the players, coaches and managers he has met along the way that have made his life in soccer so remarkable. For instance, we meet founding owner Herb Capozzi, who enjoyed the limelight and liked to dream up outrageous, attention-grabbing stunts; coach Eckhard Krautzun, who would randomly visit players’ residences and check the fridge to see if they were eating properly; and players like John “Cravo” Craven-- who was so tough he once played part of a game with a broken leg--and Alan Hinton, who was less than fit but took free kicks so accurately that the Vancouver Sun reported “When Alan Hinton put a corner kick on your head, he’d give you your choice of eyebrows.
Lenarduzzi, now president of the seventeenth club in Major League Soccer, is set on rekindling the fires that warmed the old Whitecaps, their fans, and the city. Bob Lenarduzzi: A Canadian Soccer Story is a tribute to Lenarduzzi’s dedication, in life and in sport, and is a true testament that perseverance and drive can help you realize your dream.
The book hit shelves of local book stores earlier this week. You can purchase your exclusive limited edition Whitecaps copy of the book Bob Lenarduzzi: A Canadian Soccer Story on October 22 when Whitecaps FC take on Colorado Rapids. The book is also available online at harbourpublishing.com and at major Lower Mainland book stores.
