Alhaji Righteous De Ambitious: Apr 11, 2010

Sunday, April 11, 2010

World Cup 2010 Blog: The Charlie Davies Miracle

Posted: 11 Apr 2010 05:41 AM PDT

Charlie_Davies_84718f The determination of the human spirit should never be undersold. Especially when there is a World Cup roster slot on the line.

Charlie Davies nearly died October 13th, 2009. After being involved in a serious car accident, which included the death of the driver in his car, Davies was written off. His career, his World Cup prospects, his overall well being; all of it was put into question.

The young American striker wound up going through a series of surgeries immediately after the accident. These included five hours of surgery to repair a lacerated bladder, fractures to his tibia and femur in his right leg, plus a facial and a left elbow fracture. And that was only the beginning of the countless procedures that would begin Davies long journey towards health.

He trained hard for months, pushing himself to be ready. He had worked so hard to make the most of his opportunities up to that point. You see, before the United States magical run in the Confederations Cup, Davies was an after thought in the plans of his countries national team. His play was solid at Hammarby, where he was already being showered by the local love, but for some time, it was not enough to garner the attention of US Head Coach Bob Bradley. When he was finally given a shot, he fought hard not only to impress in the short term, but to force himself into the long term plans of the team. And as always, Davies sheer will and determination was center stage for the most significant tournament play his country had ever seen.

He did the impossible; he secured his starting spot.

You can only imagine, then, how Davies felt when he nearly lost it all only a few months later. And that makes it the more surprising that, two months shy of the World Cup, the young striker is aiming to do the impossible yet again.

In typical Davies style, he is proving the naysayers wrong. Reports out of Sochaux suggest Davies is roughly three weeks away from seeing playing time. Three weeks away from putting near death behind him. Now a new journey begins for #9 as he aims to once again showcase his talents on the biggest sporting stage known to man; the World Cup.

Miracles really do happen.

Share your thoughts on the incredible journey of Charlie Davies below.