Pelé is the most recognizable name in soccer and one of the greatest, if not the greatest to ever play the game, and for decades he was the subject for every young American soccer players’ school biography project, myself included.
The “King of Soccer” celebrates his 80th birthday today from his home in Brazil. Yesterday, in a media message for his fans, he said, “I hope that, when I go to heaven, may God welcome me the same way that I am welcomed because of our cherished football.”
Pelé grew up in Bauru, in the state of São Paulo, learning the game from his father, Dondinho, who played professionally for the local club until he was forced to retire due to injury.