The Pope of High Point
Where are the articles on Eddie Pope in the News & Record? Just as in 2002, High Point's soccer star has been elusive during the buildup to the World Cup.
Eddie spoke with me briefly and was downright cordial after the U.S. MNT's 1-1 draw with Jamaica in Cary back on April 11, leading to a short feature story and photo in our April 12 print edition. But all attempts since then to set up an interview with the veteran defender through his club team, Real Salt Lake, through the U.S. Soccer Federation during the subsequent MNT camp in Cary and even through his family during his three-day break before traveling to Germany proved fruitless.
A Chicago Tribune story in the print edition of Friday's News & Record included Eddie's thoughts on the growing problem of racism in soccer. And we're keeping an eye on our wire services for word on how the former Southwest Guilford and UNC standout is feeling as Monday's opener against the Czech Republic draws nearer.
One of these days, Eddie will tell us why he doesn't want to talk to us at length. But until then, you can check him out on video at the U.S. Soccer Federation's Web site. Just launch the Studio 90 feature and go to Wednesday, June 7, in the archive for "Back 4 - Convey and Pope." It's an informal Q&A with Eddie and his World Cup roommate, Bobby Convey.
Most of the laughs are provided by Convey, including a Jeff Agoos own-goal reference, but Eddie is his usual thoughtful and articulate self. I just wish he'd send a little shout out to the folks back home.