Happy Playing for the San Diego Sockers – American Soccer Legend Landon Donovan Speaks Out
Soccer News: Landon Donovan is the MLS LA Galaxy’s all-time leading goal scorer. He is also tied for the all-time US Men’s National Team goal scoring. Considered by the MLS and U.S. Soccer as one of the best players in the history of American soccer, Donovan is a former National Team hero who came out of retirement and made headlines all across America when he decided to play indoor soccer and play for the MASL’s San Diego Sockers.
The MLS All-Star MVP twice — and amazing thirteen years apart, earning the title in 2001, and once again in 2014, Landon Donovan clearly does not want to stay retired. He made his debut on February 15 when the Sockers hosted the Tacoma Stars and is making a great impact on the game he so passionately loves.
Donovan is not the only former MLS player to join the indoor game and play for the MASL. While Donovan may be the biggest legendary name to trade in his outdoor cleats for indoor shoes, former US Men’s National teammate Jermaine Jones has joined MASL’s Ontario Fury, Sporting KC‘s homegrown player Kevin Ellis is now playing for the Kansas City Comets and Canada’s four-time MLS Cup champion Dwayne De Rosario also joined the indoor league’s Mississauga MetroStars last year. In total, there are roughly 20 former MLS players who are playing indoor soccer at MASL clubs this season.
How is Landon Donovan doing? We wanted to know, so we asked.
SoccerToday Interview with Landon Donovan
Diane Scavuzzo: What is it like? Playing for the Sockers?
Landon Donovan: I feel really lucky. The San Diego Sockers are the best team in the league and this has been the perfect opportunity for me.
The team demands excellence. I like that.
Diane Scavuzzo: You seem very happy playing for the Sockers …
Landon Donovan: I am — I am really enjoying myself. It is pure enjoyment. It is really fun for me.
The San Diego Sockers have really good energy.
Playing indoor is the perfect transition from the outdoor game. I honestly don’t know why more MLS players don’t want to do this. It is a no brainer. Indoor soccer is entertaining and exciting. Everyone loves it. You see a lot more action, which is great.
Diane Scavuzzo: And your family comes to watch?
Landon Donovan: Yes, my kids never have seen me play before. Now, my wife is at the games and my kids get to watch me play.
Diane Scavuzzo: What is it like working with San Diego Sockers’ General Manager Sean Bowers? He is a former MLS player as well.
Landon Donovan: I love Sean Bowers. He is the reason this came about so quickly. From the first time I sat down with Sean, I was impressed. All the people at the Sockers are exceptional. Our coach Phil Salvagio is a great human being, and really passionate.
Diane Scavuzzo: What is one of the differences playing indoor soccer from playing for the U.S. Men’s National team or the MLS?
Landon Donovan: I have always been so driven to succeed. I always want to be successful but the big difference is that now I can relax between games and hang out with my family.
Before I was so focused on resting before the next match — it was very different and pressured.
Diane Scavuzzo: What is your goal?
Landon Donovan: To win together. The Sockers’ fans are amazing and this is an incredible team of players.
I want to help the Sockers win the championship.
As I said in the beginning, I am really lucky to be a part of this team. San Diego is our home, this is my community and I am very happy to be playing for the Sockers.
Photo Credit: Richard Pecak Jr.
