clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Sporting KC captain, USMNT star Matt Besler pens new book

Besler writes No Other Home sharing his story, challenges and lessons

If you buy something from an SB Nation link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics statement.

MLS: Western Conference Knockout Round-Sporting KC at Houston Dynamo Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

"Instead of being remembered for any great moments on the field, I'd rather be remembered as a great competitor and an even better teammate."

Matt Besler is having a long storied career. A two-time CONCACAF Gold Cup, three-time US Open Cup and 2013 MLS Cup champion, Besler has certainly tasted success. Following a tremendous amount of success it introduces critics and Besler has certainly faced critics on all levels - from high school to Notre Dame to Sporting KC to the U.S. Men’s National Team - but has been quick to shut them down by displaying his talents on the pitch.

Over the past year, Besler has been in the process of writing a book, a project which began when doctors suggested he kept a diary after suffering a concussion in March 2016.

No Other Home isn't your typical chronological life story as it jumps in-between moments of Matt's personal and career life, discussing an array of topics like: climbing the ranks of various teams, his support system, dealing with injuries, fatherhood, etc.) Besler even had the opportunity to include Parker - his now one-year-old daughter - who was born halfway through the writing process.

Filled with short chapters, photographs, stick figure Besler illustrations (yes, there are stick figures!), quotes, personal thoughts, varying color and size font, this book makes you feel as if you're reading Besler's personal diary.

In a radio interview with 810 Sports' Border Patrol, Besler said of the writing process:

"Over the years, I've had certain opportunities to start writing little blog entries or posts on the Players Tribune website. I wrote a couple posts for the Kansas City star and letters like that. I realized I enjoyed the process. I enjoyed writing."

A sentiment which Besler echoes in the introduction. Besler goes on to tell aspiring professional players that he is "only sharing [his] experiences and insights" and to treat his book as a guidebook to help influence them while making decisions. As well, assuring readers that his book is not just for players, it is for everyone to enjoy.

When it comes to telling stories about his teammates from Sporting KC and the USMNT, Besler leaves little to the imagination as he describes his friendships and tells of the times when they played games like "truth or dare" in his early career.

Of course, he didn't leave out his notable friendship to Graham Zusi - Besler's long-time best friend and fellow teammate - and their journey of climbing the ranks together. Zusi wrote the forward in which he describes his friendship with Besler and speaks to Besler's characteristics while reassuring readers they are in for a treat while diving into each chapter.

The book is available for pre-order on Amazon.com and will be officially released to the public on November 7th.