“I’ll come see you if I can make it.”

I knew what he meant. Dan was battling serious illness and the Grand Referee had granted him limited precious overtime. I didn’t expect to see him. But he showed up, game face on, and I got the privilege of pointing out to the crowd America’s newest Hall of Fame coach. We talked about his favorite haunts in South Saint Louis, and planned the Dan Hogan tour. Shortly after this picture we shook hands and said goodbye.

Coach Hoags impacted thousands of lives on and off the soccer field.

First time he showed up at Glenn’s Cafe we bonded over Dixie beers and Black Bay sliders. Over the years we hoisted countless toasts to Saint Patrick. As the Jameson’s became my voice, I would remind him that even at 35 years old, I had four years of college eligibility left, and I’d like to try out for goalie.

“Sure. Come by. I’ll have my strikers give you a workout.” What he was really saying: I’ll have my strikers take you to school. I never made good on my threat, and he finally got tired of hearing it.

“Either show up or shut up.”

We laughed and I never brought it up again.

We never completed the Hogan tour. His favorite south city spots are waiting for last call.

Rest well, good soul.