One of the city’s brightest stars, Landon Donovan, returned to his roots Tuesday night as the retired American soccer star took the stage at the University of Redlands’ Memorial Chapel to speak.
A sold out crowd of more than 1,300 filled the chapel to listen to Donovan touch on topics such as his career, fatherhood, the future of U.S. soccer, the women’s World Cup, and his hometown of Redlands.
The discussion was led by the University of Redlands’ Director of Athletics Jeff Martinez.
Donovan was asked about his life as a pro and being the face of U.S. soccer and some of the difficulties that created, especially off the field.
“I sacrificed a lot of family time,” said Donovan.
The former American star added that he was trying to make up for that lost time now that he’s retired, saying that he recently moved back into the area.
“It’s quiet. It’s family,” said Donovan. “(Redlands) is about community.”
When it was mentioned that he attended Redlands East Valley High, Donovan raised his fist into the sky and belted, “Go Wildcats” to the roar of the crowd.
But he quickly added: “I’m also one of the few that can say, ‘Go Terriers’” to another big roar.
Donovan’s speaking engagement, which was delayed by technical difficulties, was unique in that it was made free to the public at the request of Donovan.
Tuesday’s event was born out of a simple Facebook message to Donovan, asking if he would be interested in speaking.
“I figured why not?” said Donovan with a grin.
Donovan also touched on the arrival of David Beckham with the Galaxy — practices went from two media members to 200 on the first day — and getting cut from the World Cup team in 2014.
“I was devastated,” said Donovan. “I felt disrespected.”
But Donovan said that moment help create a new outlook on his life, a newfound form of compassion.
After the hour-plus discussion led by Martinez, those in attendance were allowed to ask questions. One REV student asked if he could build REV a stadium to the delight of those in attendance. Donovan admitted that he has thought about it — and even approached about the idea — but gave a candid answer that the money might be better spent elsewhere.
A young man asked what possible careers Donovan wanted while growing up, launching him into a story that showed how far he has climbed. During a career day in high school with the counselor, students were asked what they wanted to be, Donovan recalled.
“I told her I wanted to go to UCLA and play soccer on a scholarship. So she ran my grades and paperwork and she comes back and says, ‘Maybe you should do something more realistic.’ I hope she’s not here,” said Donovan as the crowd laughed.
“Wait, I hope she is,” he said with a smile.
