Continuing the Charlie Tribute

Continuing the Charlie Davies tribute that The Shin Guardian started so brilliantly, I'll give some love to our revered #9.

Davies earned his first cap back in 2007 and scored his first goal against Trinidad and Tobago in 2008, but 2009 was his breakout year on the international level.  Not only did he parlay his strong with Hammarby into a transfer to Ligue 1 side Sochaux, he also established himself as a go-to guy for the USMNT, playing a key role in the Confederations Cup and World Cup qualification.

In total, Davies scored 3 goals for the Yanks and picked up 2 assists, all of which can be seen below with some additional thoughts after the videos.  Each of them displays the qualities that make Charlie such a threat and such a joy to watch: his quickness, his strength, and (with the celebrations) his genuine love for the game.

All of these highlights only tell part of the story, as all of you know.  These accomplishments still pale in comparison to the truly unbelievable comeback that Charlie is about to complete. In sports, it's often hard to get an idea of what players are like away from the playing field, but we've learned a lot about Charlie the man since that tragic October accident.  In the past couple of months, he has astounded us all with the strength and determination he has displayed in such a physically and emotionally trying time.  He's not just a soccer player; he's an inspiration to us all, a role model for anyone going through a period of adversity.  He's battled through the greatest challenge of his life with an unbelievably positive attitude while showing a level of maturity and reflection that all of us should strive for.  We've all learned through his own actions and the words of his family, friends, and teammates that in addition to being a fantastic player, Charlie is an even better person.  He has been incredible in every sense of the word, and even that doesn't really do him justice.

After those sobering months, Charlie can finally get back to doing what he loves, and we can continue to support a man who has proven himself to be a class act both on the field and off.


Goal #1: CD9 v. Egypt

On the brink of elimination, the US needed a spark to keep their slim Confederations Cup hopes alive.  Cue Charlie Davies, who wowed us all with his strength and tenacity inside the box, bouncing one off the keeper's head for the opening goal of what would end up being an incredible victory for the Yanks.



Goal #2: CD9 v. Grenada

With one touch and a shot, Davies capped off a Gold Cup victory and reminded us all just how quick he can strike.  Then he made us all smile with the celebration that has become a part of US soccer culture, the stanky legg.  We can't wait to see you doing it again and again in years to come, Charlie, and we all know you'll be doing in South Africa come June.



Goal #3: CD9 v. Mexico

Charlie had already won us over with the passion, energy, and skill he displayed at the Confederations Cup, but he endeared himself even further to American fans everywhere with this world-class finish against El Tri.  It was a combination of speed, composure, and precision from a 23 year old playing fearlessly in the intimidating confines of Estadio Azteca.  And to top it off, a Carlton dance at the corner flag, showing us all just how much fun he has representing the Red, White, and Blue.



Assist #1: CD9 v. Brazil

This one speaks for itself.  A perfectly weighted first time pass to Landon Donovan, setting up one of the prettiest USMNT goals you'll ever see.



Assist #2: CD9 v. Honduras
 
And last, but not least, we have Chuck's final statistical contribution to the USMNT of 2009, the assist on Conor Casey's crucial goal against Honduras in the penultimate qualifier.  Once again showing the strength that he developed in his days as a high school wrestler, Davies outmuscled his defender to flick on a long ball into the box, where Casey did the rest.




Charlie, if you're reading this, just know that we're all behind you and we have faith that you'll be back and better than ever in South Africa this summer. 

We love ya, CD9.