Antonio Jose Suarez

The legacy email popped up on my email. Cannot believe it has been 15 years since Tony´s passing. I hope this page stays around as it is good to be remembered. We just had our 40 year Lightnin´ reunion and we all got to reminisce about Tony and his time in the sun as one of Charlote´s first superstars.

A terrific friend - I attended Appalachian State University as a soccer player and Tony made friends with me right away. Very genuine and giving person - he invited me to his family's traditional Thanksgiving ground roasted - Lechon (specially cooked hog) _ delicious. I miss the "Cuban Rocket" ..miss his smile and warmth! I can still see him smiling!!

I was thinking about Tony today. I met Tony at Ric Flairs Golds Gym at South park. He was the kind of guy you met, that it seemed you've known him for years. We soon started working out together. He had that electric smile. I miss my old friend. He shined a bright light. I'll never forget him.

I am glad the guestbook is still going. I was thinking about my old friend and teammate and can't believe we just recently had the 5th anniversary of Tony's passing. It was a privilege to be present and see Tony posthumously inducted into the NC Soccer hall of fame along with my other teammate Bill Finneyfrock. The entire 1981 Championship team was also inducted into the NC Soccer Hall ring of honor. It was great to see most of the Suarez family in attendance and Tony's Mom looked extremely...

Tony and Ii played together at ASU, his death rocked me... Especially since I did not find out about it until a year later!!!
We had such a good time - I recall meeting "The Tribe" - a dozen Suarez at the time. Thanksgiving time of the year in NC always bring memories for me - Tony invited this Florida kid to stay at his home in my first year at ASU.. They made room for me at his home!! Awesome pig-picking in the back yard. Great soccer player!! The Cuban rocket is what we called...

Tony Suarez was one of the first heroes I ever had. As an 8-year old boy, I even got down to the sidelines on occasion. Tony was the one who took the most time and treated me like a friend. I'll never forget his kindness.

I never knew you, but have learnt about you from your coach at Carolina - Rod Marsh - he says you had the fairytale dream start to your soccer career...

Tony,

Its been one year today and I still can't believe you are not with us anymore. I've tried hard to understand and I know I never will, but I keep trying because I love you. I want you to know that you never dissappointed me, you only made me stronger and more competitive. I will never forget watching you play soccer and how you would blow by every defender. You were the best...I wanted to be like you. I'm sure I never got there, but it was fun trying. Our Dolphins and Hurricanes...