It’s underdog week here at SB Nation, and while Sacramento Republic FC haven’t really been underdogs at any point in their USL Championship existence as a team, every team still has an underdog or two kicking around.
When a team is not an underdog but they have a player who embodies that role, there tends to be a few elements in common (based on my own experience):
- Dealt with more adversity than most in reaching a pro career at all
- Willing to do whatever the team needs, whether that means playing multiple positions or coming off the bench
- Is often (though not always) a role player
Even though Sac Republic as a team haven’t been underdogs, the fact that they play in the second tier means there’s probably a lot more underdogs on the team than most favorites.
All of this windup is to ask you the key question: Which Republic FC player best embodies the underdog spirit? I’m having a hard time narrowing it down, so I want to hear what you think. Let’s chat about it in the comments below!
Comments
I'll come out of the gate with two nominees.
AA. Ash Apollon has the exact dearth of pedigree, willingness to do whatever, wherever, along with measurable success and potential that shouts underdog at you. I’m sure everyone who knows him is rooting for him and thinking it just may be possible for him to climb big mountains.
SW. Sam Werner seems like the consummate underdog – as in little superhero Underdog. His nickname should be Underdog. Where did he come from? How did he get here? Don’t take him lightly ‘cause he’s coming. And he thinks he’s just as big as you.
We have guys who’ve seen the big time, grown up in the big academies, are still growing up, or are very established at this level. But those are my two underdogs.
By left hand on 05.21.20 7:34pm
I think these are great candidates
Apollon because of the tryout and playing all over the world, and for switching to a new position, Werner because he comes from an obscure spot for soccer and he doesn’t look like a tricky attacking player, but bam, he’s got the goods.
By Alicia Rodriguez on 05.21.20 8:09pm