This was an amazing read and, of course, Big Soccer Lore and legend. Here is a link to Elliott's teammates with a "where are they now?" from 2011. http://juventiknows.com/where-are-they-now-juventus-primavera-2003/ His youth coach on this squad, Gian Piero Gasperini, had just been appointed coach at Inter, he is now at Genoa. A shame that Jonothon's status is not mentioned.
Can I buy this rights to this thread??? I see the potential for a captivating documentary and/or book. I haven't read this threat in ages and it brings up so many memories!
What is the post script, here, Parm? Has there been any news, recently, that you know of, of our lad from Torino?
Awesome! Research is expensive. I've been around Italy in recent months talking to everyone about this story -- his family, former coaches, former team mates, even Zidane's former agent, the most powerful in Serie A during the 1980s and 1990s and who begged to rep the kid when he was 16 (the family refused...) and would have almost certainly secured an initial contract for him somewhere... To close the final chapter here: He's happily living with his his Italian girlfriend in a nice home they own in a northern Italian town where they also own a successful small business. Plays soccer for fun in the 6th division (where he's compensated, too). We just had a few Pilsner Urquells in Prague last week... But the real stories behind this Internet story....when you finally go digging -- it's truly amazing what you discover.
Next month will be my 15th anniversary on BigSoccer. It's not something I'm especially proud of because usually this place is a hot mess. But this thread reminds me of all that BigSoccer (or any other message board) could potentially be. It is fantastic. The best thing in the history of this site and something that probably won't ever be surpassed.
Ha. Rob Feigenson and I discussed this one evening while strolling through Siena during Carlos's trial at nearby Perugia. A very important discussion -- facilitated by Chianti DOC!
I don't know what your situation is, but if needed, have you thought about doing a Kickstarter? I'm sure there are fans of this saga that would donate.
Good work, Parm! I look forward to buying a copy! This thread is legendary status! And thank you for always being so polite and responding to me in private. A true gentleman.
I have to be honest, I have maybe been on this site longer than you (back in 1999 maybe... prior to the crash that deleted my old account), and have seen this thread for many, many years. Even remember the old 'George Weah Jr.' thread. But haven't followed it closely, yet click in from time to time, and find it interesting. Write the book! I will definitely read it. In fact it would probably even be to your own benefit - it's an interesting story where it looks like you already have the foreward and intro to the story done. I say do it. It could be a very interesting read. And a nice opportunity for yourself as well.
How is someone lazy for not having time to read over 50 pages? If it was 5 pages, then you could tell someone to read it, but thoroughly reading through all 53 pages is something that some people don't have time to do.