If there's one man that embodies the spirit of Crew Stadium on a Saturday night in the middle of summer, it's Frankie Hejduk.
But how does the club legend and Brand Ambassador spend his offseason?
Hejduk's good friend, former U.S. National Team roommate and Sporting Director and Head Coach Gregg Berhalter leans on Hejduk to help new arrivals acclimate to life in Columbus. The two-time MLS Cup winner helps new players with everything from setting up a bank account and finding an apartment to restaurant recommendations.
"There is no better authority on Columbus Crew SC than Frankie," said Berhalter. "He’s lived it, he’s worked it. He’s been the heart and soul of this organization for a long time. I think that when the players are greeted by him and he’s relaying all the information about the city and about what it has to offer, he gives a great perspective.
"He shares a lot of insight with these new players, he’s great for that role."
Perhaps Hejduk's biggest asset -- just as it was in his playing days -- is his passion. There is no one that lives and breathes everything Crew SC quite like Hejduk. That passion is evident when new players meet the club legend for the first time upon arrival in Columbus.
"Frankie’s special," said Swedish midfielder Mohammed Saeid. "He’s a special person. He makes everyone smile. He tries to help with everything, so he’s had a big impact — not just on me, my dad was here too. We really like [Columbus]. [Hejduk’s passion] just makes you want to get started straight away, get the season started. He’s great, I feel really happy."
Added Icelandic winger Kristinn Steindorsson, who arrived in Columbus on Tuesday following National Team duty in Florida: "I met him for the first time this morning. We’ve been around, fixing me with a bank, a mobile [phone]. The first impression is that he’s a great guy, a fun guy. He has a lot of energy. I think we get along really well."
He continued: "Being around him makes you care about stuff, like I’m driving around with a smile on my face. Getting here, talking to [media]… Everything is great. It’s fun. I’m just looking forward to starting the preseason, getting onto the pitch and being in front of the fans. I can’t wait."
While Crew SC retained its core from last season, it's clear the newcomers are instantly greeted with a passion for their new club.
After all, that's the Hejduk way.
