If you look at Gooch (Oguchi Onyewu), you see a chiseled 6'4" monster of a man. Yet in a day and age where there are more sports villains than there are sports heroes, Gooch stands out as a true good guy, and a player of honor and integrity.
A lot of professional athletes make the claim that the would play for free. Seems like a nice gesture, but not something that any athlete would ever follow through on. Except for Oguchi Onyewu. The big American center back who has spent this past season on the sidelines after sustaining a knee injury asked for a one year contract extension at AC Milan, and told them that he would play for free.A club statement read: "Onyewu - who has been out for virtually the whole season due to injury, but who at this time is getting ready to face the World Cup adventure in South Africa with his national team - has become a star today with a significant gesture from a personal and professional standpoint.
"Onyewu has requested and obtained a contract extension from June 30, 2012 until June 30, 2013.
"With respect to that year, as was his wish, which has been appreciated by the club, Onyewu has asked not to receive any type of wages.
"This is an exemplary gesture that deserves our sincere congratulations."
Pretty amazing...
Oh this isn't just a feel good story, it is about a man doing the right thing and for me it moves him to the top of my list of not just sports heroes, but just plain heroes. Around the world many professional athletes are known for being greedy, and doing the wrong thing. Well here is proof that one guy gets it.
you can read more: here, here, or here
Thanks Gooch
OFF MY SOAPBOX