Photo by ISIphotos.com
John "Clarkie" Souza, a starting forward for the 1950 U.S. men's national team that defeated England in the World Cup, passed away on Sunday. He was 91.
Souza, a Fall River, Mass., native, member of the successful Ponta Delgada club and a World War II veteran, was a 1976 inductee into the National Soccer Hall of Fame. His nickname, Clarkie, according a quote from his daughter in the obituary in his hometown newspaper, emanated from his looks when he was younger, when "People would tell him ‘You’re better looking than Clark Gable.'"
According to U.S. Soccer records, Souza had 16 caps and scored two goals during his time with the national team between 1947 and 1952, scoring both goals in consecutive games against Mexico and Cuba.
Souza is the second member of that 1950 team to pass away this year, after defender Harry Keough died last month. Walter Bahr and Frank Borghi are the last remaining members from that U.S. World Cup team.
Defeating England at the World Cup in Brazil.
If I could experience one event in the history of sports, it would be the 1950 USA World Cup Victory. Thank you, Mr. Souza. Between your service to our country in World War II and your contributions to American Soccer, your life was one all of us look at with respect and admiration.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tYFl6oOad3E
the first 30 seconds or so is the US – England match. The crowd going crazy really was the Brazilians cheering for us (because they wouldn’t have to face England, according to wikipedia 🙂 )
Thank you Clarkie for your service and for being one of the select honored few to play for the US National Team!
We could have used his dribbling abilities even today. RIP you will be missed.
+1
What a nice obituary and what an admirable life. R.I.P., Clarkie.
Vaya con Dios
What a decorated career/life, both on and off the pitch! One hell of a guy.
RIP Clarkie. Thank you for your service and for wearing the colors. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
Scored a goal against Mexico!! What an honor. RIP
USSF better be doing something to immortalize these 1950 players. Lets get it done USSF make a statue or memorial.
RIP Clarkie. You were a true pioneer.