The phrase “Come on You Reds” is usually reserved for the likes of Manchester United, but it is also the title of a recent book about Toronto FC from Joshua Kloke and Dundurn Press.
Kloke has the right credentials as a journalist, working the Toronto FC and Toronto Maple Leafs beats for the Athletic. His writing style is that of a brilliant storyteller that has seen a lot in his career, someone whose passion for sport comes through loud and clear.
A foreword by U.S. Men’s National Team and Toronto FC legend Michael Bradley immediately provides credibility for this title, which serves as the definitive text for all things Toronto FC. From the creation of the brand and supporters’ groups to winning the MLS Cup in 2017, this book covers it all. It’s truly a fascinating read, engaging the audience at all times.
Kloke handles every topic with tremendous detail and description so that readers truly understand the who, what, when, where, and why of every important aspect of Toronto FC history. From Dichio and De Rosario to Altidore amd Giovinco, you will get to know all of the key players for the Reds over the years. You will learn about the early days of Mo Johnston, John Carver, and Aron Winter and the winning ways of Greg Vanney.
While the focus is on TFC, the fact is that it offers a tremendous historical view of MLS and Canadian soccer as a whole. It’s quite clear, thanks to this book, that the success of Toronto FC led to growth in MLS and Canadian soccer. The failure of franchises over several decades hurt the game, but the success of TFC actually helped grow the game in Toronto and all over North America. Honestly it’s not an exaggeration to say that if TFC had failed, MLS may not be around today.
Toronto FC came from the humble beginnings and now it is a model franchise that sets the standard for others to follow. No one would ever guess that the concept for the team come off internet message boards or that it was once a “one man show.” Toronto FC have done things the right way and Kloke does the same, and in the process, creates one of the best books on North American soccer ever written.
