Rogues Goalkeeper John Houska

Memphis Rogues Goalkeeper John Houska joins Tim Van Horn for a chat about his soccer career.

Although the Rogues spent just three North American Soccer League seasons (1978-80) in Memphis, the club left a lasting legacy.  Houska is one of the most talented and popular players in franchise history.

The Baltimore native was an aspiring baseball player.  However, he took his incredible hand-eye coordination to the pitch and became a collegiate soccer star.  Houska had a tremendous career at Loyola University Maryland.  He was a National Champion & 2nd Team All-American goalkeeper, catching the eyes of pro scouts here and abroad.

After being the first draft pick of the Rogues, Houska was tested early.  History will show he passed with flying colors against the world class New York Cosmos.  John talks to Tim about this and other triumphs.  Although it was a happy time, he also shares his biggest regret.  We learn about his very tough choice he had to make at age 21.

In fact, Houska dishes on a wide range of topics, including the friendships he's maintained with many of his teammates for over 40 years.  We thank Memphis Rogues Goalkeeper John Houska for sharing his story.

Still no matches at this time, but the world soccer news is far from dull.

It was announced in England on Monday that the government will allow a return of sports on June 1, albeit behind closed doors.  While police says matches should be played at neutral grounds, Premier League clubs want home & away matches (especially relegation-threatened clubs).  Brodee Scott and Tim Van Horn will more on this and other leagues in the UK and Europe in the first half of the podcast.

No restart date for MLS at this time.  

Same goes for the USL.  However, the league's team owners have approached (through the League) the Players Association about a return to play and a request for "economic relief" from the players.  The guys discuss the League's efforts to get back to the pitch.

Tim & Brodee will also have injury & transfer news as well.

(photo credit: memphisrogues.blogspot.com)

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