How would you want to be Rememered? The fifth of eight children of a factory worker, Diego Armando Maradona was born on October 30, 1960, in a shanty town on the outskirts of Buenos Aires. He made his debut with the first-division soccer club, Argentinos Juniors, in 1976, few days before turning 16. He led Argentina’s Boca Juniors to the league championship in 1982 and was transferred to Spain’s Barcelona for a record $3 million. He moved to Italy’s Napoli in 1984 and carried it to its only two championships in 1987 and 1990. Maradona traveled to the 1986 World Cup finals in Mexico with the determination to make a mark after a disappointing appearance in ’82 finals, where he was red-carded for a crude challenge on Brazil’s Batista. He hit the world headlines when he scored the “Hand of God” goal as Argentina defeated England 2-1 in the 1986 World Cup quarterfinals and led Argentina’s 3-2 victory over Germany in the World Cup final. One of the best players ever to step on a pitch, Maradona no doubt ruled the soccer world from mid 80s, leading Argentina to a World Cup crown in 1986, and a second place finish in 1990. He became a shadow of himself in the 90s. Still it did not stop him from being the idol of soccer lovers all over the world. For an individual who have attained this height in his career, one would expect him to be a positive role model. In 1991, he failed a doping test in Italy and was suspended for 15 months. He was also investigated over alleged Mafia ties and later arrested in Argentina for cocaine possession. He tested positive for drug use during the 1994 World Cup and was suspended from the tournament. He came back with Boca Juniors in 1995, but failed another drug test two years later before retiring. In 2000, Maradona was hospitalized in Uruguay with heart problems and tests revealed cocaine use. He underwent drug rehabilitation in Cuba. Appearing overweight, Maradona in 2004 spent 10 days in intensive care in Argentina with heart and breathing problems. He was confined to a psychiatric hospital, and then returned to Cuba for more treatment. Looking slimmer after a stomach-stapling operation, Maradona launched a television talk show in Argentina in 2005 that lasted for one season. When in his forties, Maradona fought cocaine, overeating and drinking habits. Not long after he was discharged from a Buenos Aires hospital where doctors described his illness as a result of excessive drinking, gluttony and drug addiction. For a player who was close in popularity to the Brazilian legend Pele, one expects a more positive story in and off the pitch. Dear reader, there is a thin line between grace and grass. Be careful who you choose as a mentor. How do you want to be remembered? The key is in your hands. Use it! Shalom! Your Life Coach. @UjuBOnyechere BB: 224AEA77
Posted on: Mon, 09 Sep 2013 10:22:41 +0000
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