Pelé - 1940-2022

What I remember about Pele ( wasn't quite my fandom age bracket, so here a few tidbits...

1.Always a consummate class act. He never got involved in any personal scandal.  He kept his mistress, changed marriages, but his persona was never fodder for tabloids.  He knew how to manage his private life like few.

2.Never sponsored alcohol and tobacco, at the time these products were widely toted by soccer pros and other jocks. Himself and Eder Jofre ( boxing ) were all about clean living and

3.When playing, he and his team dictated the game's tempo. Only Ademir da Guia, his heir apparent, bested him on this skill.  Ademir da Guia moniker was "The Divine".  Santos played a game where they paced the game.

4.When he signed his first pro contract, before reaching sixteen, his nickname was Gasoline.  They decided Gasoiine was unfit to Pele. 

5.Always sporting a wide grin and smile.  He was a public persona way before other ballers learned to become one.   

6.His personal fortune was really made while playing, at the end of his Career, by NYC Cosmos. He was never paid to what he deserved, in Santos F.C.   

7.He managed his money like a few.

8.His mother ( 100 years old ) survived him.  Mineiros know how to lead their lives.

5.He Liked blondes above them all.  No white chicks.