Murray Wood: Of Easter bunny bells and Juicy Fruit gum
For Murray Wood, Easter brings to mind grandma's practical advice about repurposing, and some of life's little lessons.
TORONTO — Unable to play games due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Toronto FC players and others across Major League Soccer are doing their bit to inform — and entertain.
Toronto captain Michael Bradley, goalkeeper Quentin Westberg, Spanish attacking midfielder Alejandro Pozuelo, fullback Justin Morrow and Canadian midfielder Jonathan Osorio have done videos to reinforce the need for hand-washing, social distancing and staying at home as much as possible.
“Let’s all do our part and in a few weeks be proud of how we behaved,” said Westberg
“I know it’s not easy but together we can do this,” added Bradley.
They also paid tribute to health-care and medical workers.
French defender Chris Mavinga showed off video of a do-it-yourself haircut.
“Good player, good dj, good person, good hairdresser. This is my defender,” Brazilian fullback Auro tweeted by way of review.
Venezuelan winger Erickson Gallardo did sit-ups with his baby daughter on his stomach. Morrow’s daughter also steals the show as she wanders through the camera shot in his video.
TFC goalkeeper Alex Bono has offered near daily updates of his self-isolation, reporting the arrival of a yoga mat and possible Austin Powers marathon.
Vancouver Whitecaps players have shown off their soccer skills from home, using a toilet roll — in a challenge soccer players around the world have tried their hand or feet at.
Montreal Impact coach Thierry Henry has also taken to social media, urging people to follow health guidelines around COVID-19.
“Respect what’s being said about it. Don’t take this lightly,” he said in a video posted by the Impact.
There were also more sombre messages. Los Angeles FC noted the death of club member Jeff Ghazarian, a 34-year-old who died reportedly from virus complications.
“Our thoughts are with his family and all those affected during this difficult time,” the club tweeted.
MLS has suspended play, with a targeted return date of May 10.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 20, 2020.
Neil Davidson, The Canadian Press
