As told by MIKE, aka Mike Raffone.

The sports world’s ultimate talking head, MIKE shares 25 of his all- time favorite soccer comics.

MIKE’s clever comics capture the moments, people and clichéd expressions that encompass the world’s most popular sport.

Enjoy this FREE book on MIKE’s 25 all-time favorite soccer comics.

MIKE’s author profile can be found at www.theemike.com. Known as football throughout the non-American sports universe, soccer boasts its own unique language, eccentric expressions and unparalleled personalities.

Soccer is the world’s most popular sport by a long shot, even in spite of its peculiarities. For example:

Soccer keeps time in the exact opposite direction of every other sport on the planet.

Soccer matches, not games, are played by men wearing boots rather than cleats atop a pitch instead of a field.

When overdone, the sport’s inexcusable melodramatic flopping may sully a spectator’s enjoyment.

Soccer fans can get flummoxed by the inexplicable calculation of stoppage time and anti-climactic penalty kick shootouts that decide championship games.

However, this international sport, known outside the United States as football, has flourished for generations.

From the wealthiest, to some of the poorest, nations around the globe bask in the brilliance of the Beautiful Game for its incredible athletes, iconic coaches and the passionate fans.

In this FREE book on soccer, you won’t need to fear when facing players named Scarface or The Cannibal, seemingly the sport’s most frightening characters.

You’ll enjoy reading about the cleverly named, but highly entertaining British soccer players like Spice Boy and Calamity James. You’ll even discover there really was a Fifth Beatle.

You’ll look up to (pun intended) the goal scoring exploits of taller, long-necked stars like The Giraffe and Two Meter Peter. You’ll relish in the allure of the Beautiful Game, the cleanliness of a goalie’s extra-tidy clean sheet and the “joie de vie” that a Frenchman named Va Va Voom exudes.

References to monarchs, leaders and twentieth century politics are captured by this sport. You’ll meet a Kaiser and the Child of a King and even come face to face with soccer’s impenetrable Berlin Wall.

You’ll be impressed by a Genius, dazzled by a Magic Dwarf and enchanted by a Portuguese player with Magic Feet.

Finally, after a little assistance from soccer’s most debated Hand of God, you’ll finish this FREE read by paying homage to the sport’s most sacred celestial stars Messi and Pele.

Kick this book around on your own or pass it to a friend.

If you love the Beautiful Game like me, you’ll want to share these clever comics and lively sports trivia with fellow soccer fans.

And, best yet, the book is FREE!

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

In this FREE sports comic book on soccer, snippets have been taken from other MIKE Sports Comic Books which are available for 99 cents each on Amazon.

Check out MIKE’s author page on Amazon for these books.

The other books offer more in-depth, comprehensive stories on soccer greats Franck Ribery, , , , , and Pele.

Franck Ribery earned his nickname Scarface from noticeable facial scars he suffered in a car accident as a child.

Franck Ribery’s frightening speed, chilling patience and a punishing style scare his opposition on the soccer pitch. Plus, the scars on his face have made many compare Ribery to actor Al Pacino’s frightening character Tony Montana from the movie Scarface.

This Frenchman may look like a back yard brawler. But, his game is beautiful on the soccer field. Legendary French once called Ribery, “the jewel of French football.”

Ribery made his start on the European football scene in 2004. Named to the French National Team in 2006, Scarface represented his country in both the 2006 and 2010 World Cups. He has earned 60 caps and scored 10 goals for France.

One of European football’s top overall players, Ribery signed with powerhouse Bayern in 2008. While with the German club, Ribery’s outstanding play has been key in Bayern Munich’s success to include the 2013 UEFA Champions League title.

Many fans focus on the scars lining Franck Ribery’s face. But, soccer Scarface’s energy, incredible pace and overall beautiful skill on the pitch have made him a superstar like Al Pacino’s character.

Not on the big screen, but in international football.

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

Stoppage Time in soccer is one of the real mysteries in sports!

Exactly why is it called Stoppage Time when the clock continues to run in the overtime period – backwards - I might add? Or, wait. Let’s just say the clock continues to run in the exact opposite direction of every other clock in every other sport in the world.

It’s so confusing that you’re certain to get a migraine headache just thinking about it. Go figure!

Plus, what’s the top secret formula to actually calculate Stoppage Time? Do you need an abacus or an advanced math degree?

While watching UEFA Champions League games, it seems as if most games boil down to a ref who arbitrarily uses some arcane formula to determine a few extra minutes of action at the end of a game.

At the same time all the radio and television announcers covering the game speculate just how much additional time the referee will be announcing as Stoppage Time.

Also, hushed fans in the stands sit nervously as if they’re waiting for the little puff of smoke to arise from the Vatican window.

The one thing that needs to be stopped during Stoppage Time is the ridiculous Stoppage Time process itself. Soccer needs to keep time the same way other sports keep time and not keep fans guessing just how much time is really left in the match.

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

In the 1981 movie History of the World Part I, comedian Mel Brooks popularized the saying, "It's good to be the king."

Being king might be great, but it could be totally intimidating if you’re an offspring who sets out to play the same sport as your legendary and royally talented dad.

Jordi Crujff, son of legendary Dutch soccer star Johan Crujff, did just that and ultimately earned the titled nickname Child of the King.

The younger Crujff’s successful international soccer career exceeded the expectations of all the naysayers. His on-field success overcame all doubts about his ability and silenced the critics.

Jordi Crujff followed in the footsteps - or fabulous football boots - of his father, one of soccer's all-time greats and European Player of the Century in 1999 - Johan Crujff .

Despite his father’s famous pedigree, Jordi never appeared to be intimidated. Jordi never shied away from comparisons to his iconic father. He laced 'em up while playing for the Dutch National Team that his father coached. Jordi earned nine caps as part of the Netherlands national squad.

Johan Crujff, the King of Dutch soccer, may have sired the younger Jordi. However, Jordi's long, impressive career as a player and coach in international soccer, proves that this successful man may be the son of a soccer king, but he's an over comer and certainly no child.

MIKE - aka Mike Raffone - thee ultimate talking head on sports!

Regardless of the sport, referees, officials, umpires and judges are universally maligned for the impossible roles they perform.

Whether sitting courtside, in the upper deck, or even in the comfort of their living rooms, football, baseball, basketball, soccer and hockey fans hoot, heckle and holler at just about every call a ref makes.

Some of the less callous criticisms these zebras with whistles receive when officiating games include blind, deaf, dumb and incompetent.

In this clever comic, one of my favorite sports clichés is brought to life. Just watch any soccer match, and it seems as if the players are always bellyaching whenever the ref blows his whistle.

Much to the disappointment of the agitated players on the pitch, the soccer official in this comic has literally swallowed his whistle. The disgruntled guys believe the ref failed to make the proper call, and it subsequently hurt their team.

However, in hotly contested games, sometimes no calls from the officials are the best calls.

This soccer illustration metaphorically proves the old adage that the actions of the players on the court, diamond, field, pitch or ice should decide the outcome of a close game.

And, NOT a really bad call from an overzealous ref who should have swallowed his whistle!

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

These words are written on the tombstone of our next soccer star. “Here rests in peace one who was the Joy of the People.”

Sadly, Manuel passed away as a mystery. He was a brilliant footballer, beloved by Brazilians, but he died as a poor alcoholic.

Many older soccer fans compare FC Barcelona’s Lionel Messi to Garrincha. They both are of similar height, frame, quickness and skill and possess the ability to put the ball in the back of the net.

The Joy of the People exploded onto the world soccer stage after overcoming a challenging childhood in the projects of Rio de Janiero. During his time with the Brazilian nationals, Garrincha earned his Joy of the People nickname. Garrincha was an unstoppable right wing who led his country to World Cup crowns in 1958 and 1962.

The swift and powerful Garrincha became famous as one of the best dribblers in the world. He possessed amazing skill with both feet and could quickly and effortlessly change direction. Garrincha never lost when he played alongside Pele, ’s most popular star.

Unfortunately, in his post soccer playing days, this star striker suffered physical, mental, emotional, marital and financial troubles. His pained life may always remain a mystery to those who knew him.

To the Brazilian fans who loved watching him perform on the soccer pitch, Manuel Garrincha will never be forgotten. He will always remain a beloved Brazilian symbol of soccer known as the Joy of the People.

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

Because of his skinny frame, redheaded features and unusual height for a soccer player, Peter Crouch picked up a bunch of clever and less than complimentary nicknames.

Most fans’ favorite nickname for the rail thin 6’7” Crouch is Two Meter Peter because he stands about two meters tall. The British media also named him Crouchy for his grumpy attitude and Coat Hanger for his lanky frame. A Spanish television network has even called the tall English striker El Asparagas, a title needing no translation.

Crouch received far too many barbs and backhanded compliments. However, Two Meter Peter is a solid striker with a very good touch on the ball. This is a talent not normally found in a player of his long size.

Two Meter Peter has played for several English Premier League teams. In 2006 - 07, Crouch enjoyed his best year ever when he scored 18 goals for Liverpool in UEFA Champions League competition. He finished the year as the league’s number two goal scorer. In addition, Crouch has played for the English national team since 2005, collecting 42 caps and netting 22 goals. He wore his country’s colors in both the 2006 and 2010 World Cups.

Because of his unusual size and frame, Peter Crouch has heard a lot of name calling in his soccer career. In spite the heckling, Two Meter Peter has always conducted himself professionally and stood tall, no very tall, both on and off the pitch.

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

What started as a mis-quoted sound bite in the press evolved into one of soccer’s most menacing nicknames – The Cannibal.

Dutch defender Khalid Boulahrouz became known as Khalid the Cannibal when he played for Hamburg SV in the German Bundesliga. The German press dubbed this fearless defender The Cannibal for his extremely rugged play and, metaphorically speaking, his ability to eat up his opposition on the soccer pitch.

Boulahrouz once joked that he would eat up an opponent raw, a comment that immediately stuck and quickly morphed into the horrifying nickname for an otherwise outstanding football player.

Boulahrouz’s talent for tenacious play and heard tackling made him a fan favorite. During his two years in the German Bundesliga, Boulahrouz amassed an uncommonly high 16 yellow cards and three red cards. However, his Hamburg club only allowed a paltry 30 goals in 34 matches as he led the Bundesliga’s stingiest defense.

The Cannibal’s play in the 2006 World Cup against Portugal added to Boulahrouz’s less than complimentary nickname. The Cannibal was sent off the pitch during Holland’s loss to Portugal for appearing to intentionally kick star Portuguese striker Cristiano Ronaldo.

Despite his perceived hit man of soccer reputation, Boulahrouz’s career has been impressive. The fearless Boulahrouz earned his reputation as a staunch defender who routinely outplayed opponents on the pitch. He unwittingly deserves his threatening nickname – The Cannibal.

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

In the sport of soccer where scoring can be exceedingly difficult, it’s imperative that players are both mentally and physically prepared to play when starting the game.

If not, a team can find itself immediately flattened by a superior and better equipped opponent. Especially if they’re facing top European clubs like Bayern-Munich, FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan, Chelsea or Manchester United.

In the case of this soccer comic, the flattened Mustangs weren’t playing against top flight European teams. However, they certainly were ill prepared for their match. They find themselves down 3 – 0 in the first half alone.

The Mustangs’ dismayed coach will need to pump his team up, both literally and metaphorically, in order for his players to compete in the second half of this game.

To some eyes, this exaggerated soccer comic may be ridiculous. But, it does impart a valuable lesson to all players regardless of sport.

Be ready to play and never come out flat!

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

Thierry Henry’s breakaway speed, splendid soccer skill and “joie de vie” or passion for life (popularized Renault Clio television commercials), spawned the nickname Va Va Voom.

It’s no surprise that this electrifying, handsome Frenchman is widely regarded as one of the world’s top strikers and a global fan favorite.

In addition to his incredible pace on the pitch, the calm and cool Henry honed a remarkable touch during his career. He developed into one of the most accomplished penalty and free kick players in the sport. A 2003 and 2004 FIFA Player of the Year runner-up, Henry collected 123 caps and put the ball in the back of the net 51 times for his native France, which he led to the 1998 World Cup Championship.

The 35 year-old Henry’s storied career has included stints with some of the world’s top football clubs. Va Va Voom has played for Juventus in Italy’s Serie A, Arsenal in the English Premier League and FC Barcelona in Spain’s La Liga. In addition to his coveted World Cup Championship, Henry’s trophy case comprises two EPL titles and three FA Cups with Arsenal and an astounding six total titles with FC Barcelona.

Possessing the same passion or “joie de vie” off the pitch as he has displayed on it, this adored Frenchman is helping to improve the lives of others by combating racism in his sport.

And, that’s exactly why soccer fans reciprocate, showing their exuberance for Frenchman by showering him every time he takes the soccer pitch with cheers of Va Va Voom!

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

David James may not possess the most flattering nickname in sports. However, this distinguished, good natured goalie easily laughs off the clever, but unwarranted sobriquet that was hastily given to him during his early days in the net in English football.

Named after the popular comic strip in Great Britain called The Beano, David James certainly didn’t merit the Calamity James nickname.

The genesis of the Calamity James nickname was birthed while James was in goal with Liverpool in the 1995 season when he allowed 20 goals in 11 games. The cheeky nickname reached new heights, however, when ten years later James allowed four second half goals to the Danes in England’s disastrous 4 – 1 loss. .

The Danish drubbing led British fans to unmercifully taunt James wherever he played. They unfortunately and unnecessarily likened him to The Beano comic strip’s helpless character who was always beset by misfortune. Although James struggled for a spell with Liverpool, his 22 year career in no way resembles that of the disaster prone Calamity James character portrayed in the British comic strip.

The accomplished James played in the English Premier League for five teams before retiring in 2011. James once held the EPL record for 536 total appearances as well as for a remarkable 173 clean sheets.

Now admired for his charity work off the pitch, this handsome, likeable and more than capable goalie is anything but a calamity.

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

No other sport flaunts its unique language with poetic depictions and eccentric expressions quite like the game of soccer.

Whether it’s a bookable offense for wayward defending, bringing one’s side level in a match, dispossessing the ball from an unexpected midfielder or disallowing an opponent’s striker’s shot on goal, soccer’s colorful language certainly entertains.

I love listening to the liquid gold voice of British broadcaster Ian Darke as he calls a soccer match. He eloquently reports on brilliant services, wonderfully weighted passes, tidy challenges, gentle flicks of the ball, fantastic pace and rapier thrusts through the opposition’s defense.

Darke’s play-by-play announcing infuses greater life into the already frenetic action on the pitch. He can report on a nil nil match where either goalie could both be man of the match because of their shut out work in the goal or, in soccer speak, sparkling clean sheets.

This chapter’s comic perfectly embodies the wonderfully unique language of the world’s most popular sport. You may need an interpreter or a glossary of terms to understand the subtle, colorful and outright eccentric vocabulary of a soccer match.

Just remember that these flowery phrases and poetically sounding expressions add another element to the world’s most popular sport.

And, referencing a goalie’s clean sheet is just one of them!

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

From his sweeper back position, this Kaiser, the German word for king, ruled over the soccer pitch much the same way a monarch ruled over his kingdom from his throne.

Franz Beckenbauer’s incredible strength and superb defensive skill on the football field enabled him to dominate opponents. With 103 caps and 14 goals for Germany, this soccer king still reigns as the only footballer in the history of the sport to win World Cups as both a player (1974) and then as a manager (1986).

He transformed the game of soccer and won the 1972 and 1976 European Footballer of the Year titles for his spectacular attacking play from his sweeper position. The strong, athletic German became one of the first defenders in the world to leave his defensive back position in order to make long runs into his opponents’ backfield.

This Kaiser collected an assortment of trophies during his soccer career. The talented Beckenbauer won championship trophies in the Bundesliga in 1969, 1972, 1973 and 1974.

Beckenbauer retired in 1984 after a brief stint with the New York Cosmos. In 1999, he finished second to Holland’s Johan Crujff as the International Hall of Fame’s World Player of the Century.

Call him whatever title tackles your royal fancy - Emperor Franz, the Caesar of Soccer or the Bayern Munich Monarch. It doesn’t matter what title of royalty you choose. Because of the way he dominated on the soccer pitch, Beckenbauer will always be known as the Kaiser.

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

This British athlete carried a distinctive advantage every time he ran onto the soccer field.

The leg up Jack Charlton enjoyed over the competition was actually his neck. The 6'3" Charlton towered above most opponents on the soccer pitch. The unique nickname Giraffe was born when a rival English coach remarked that the reddish haired and freckled Charlton kicked like a mule and headed the ball like a giraffe.

The lean and long necked Charlton is considered the best header of the soccer ball to have ever taken the pitch.

Charlton's lengthy playing career spanned an incredible 21 years, all with the same Leeds club in England. During his days with Leeds as center back, the lanky Charlton scored 70 goals in 629 appearances.

Charlton's greatest accomplishment as a player occurred in 1966. Teaming with his more famous and athletically gifted brother Bobby who played for Manchester United, the Giraffe played an integral part on England's World Cup Championship squad which defeated 4 - 2.

After retiring in 1973, Charlton was voted into the England Football Hall of Fame.

The Giraffe's revered stature as a manager and soccer statesman after his retirement has stood just as tall off the pitch as this long necked player's accomplishments towered above others on the soccer pitch.

MIKE - aka Mike Raffone - thee ultimate talking head on sports!

In all of sports, there may not be a more intimidating warning than hearing your opponent has lots of weapons.

This armed and dangerous metaphoric expression is readily apparent. In the sport of soccer consider closely the prowess on the pitch of teams like FC Barcelona and Bayern Munich. Suddenly, the sports cliché lots of weapons comes to life.

These UEFA Champions League powerhouses field impressive line-ups in which any number of players can score.

FC Barcelona doesn’t always need the irrepressible Lionel Messi to score. Other accomplished finishers like , Cesc Fabregas, Hernandez, and Andres Iniesta can find the back of the net, too.

The same applies with Bayern Munich. This Bundesliga club’s arsenal also includes Franck Ribery, , Philipp Lahm, Mario Mandzukic, and Thomas Muller.

The police of political correctness probably appreciate my keeping real weapons out this chapter’s comic.

However, the point is evident. The soccer team in this comic has lots of weapons - even if they appear as a computer virus, an invisible man, a curvaceous girl, a water balloon and the good old stink bomb.

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

With a nickname like The Genius, you’d expect to find this guy leaning over a set of library books or toying with boiling beacons in some university laboratory.

Believe it or not, the origin of this player’s nickname, The Genius, came from his spectacular play on the soccer pitch in Serbia and Montenegro as well as throughout Europe and not in a research lab.

Few American sports fans may know Montenegro’s Dejan Savicevic. But, all European football (soccer) fans, especially those in northern Italy, have vivid memories of this fantastic midfielder.

Savicevic starred for A.C. Milan as a brilliant attacking center back. He helped lead the premier Italian team to three Serie A titles in the 1990s.

However, The Genius will be best remembered for his role in the 1994 UEFA Champions League title game against FC Barcelona. The Genius was instrumental in two goals during the match.

Sporting the number 10 jersey, Savicevic’s superior tactical knowledge, superb vision and overall ball mastery earned him the coveted nickname The Genius.

After watching this Montenegran on film, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to admit that Savicevic is truly The Genius on the soccer field.

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

The internationally recognized sports expression Beautiful Game has always been synonymous with Brazilian football.

Through deft touches, brilliant runs and spectacular finishes of its iconic male players, soccer crazed Brazil has generously exported its Beautiful Game around the globe.

For decades celestial soccer talents like Pele, Garrincha, Ronaldo, Kaka and , and now rising stars like , Damiao, Lucas and Oscar, have showcased their scintillating skills on the world stage in World Cups, European leagues and international friendlies.

Brazil’s Beautiful Game has even produced its own female athlete to typify the moniker. Brazilian export Marta Viera da Silva carries on her country's Beautiful Game tradition by dominating the women's game with unrivaled athleticism and panache.

Soccer purists regard the beautiful Brazilian Marta as the female version of Pele. Sporting the same #10 jersey as her male counterpart, Marta has effortlessly reigned over the women's game.

The 5'4" Brazilian's dazzling play earned her the coveted FIFA World Player of the Year honors an unheard of five years in a row.

Marta's clever passes, flicks and tricks with the ball, have magnetized fans wherever she's played. It's easy to se how this radiant Brazilian, unquestionably the best women's soccer player ever, has made the Beautiful Game an even more beautiful sight to behold.

MIKE - aka Mike Raffone - thee ultimate talking head on sports!

American sports fans can’t stomach soccer. And, I guarantee that it’s because of the flopping!

American sports fans may revel in the histrionic antics of WWF, but the drama-queen dilettantes of soccer are far too over-the-top for the traditional American male. For example:

Tell me you too haven’t guffawed at the overreacting little guys on the soccer pitch every time they get touched. They jettison to the ground like they’ve been shot by a stinger missile.

Next, tell me you haven’t grunted as panicking paramedics race to the field with their all-too-familiar stretcher in a mad dash to rescue the fallen, injured player.

And, tell me you haven’t grimaced as succoring soccer teammates hover around their fallen comrade. They scream wildly at the ref and gather together in a last rites gesture for the teammate who appears to be fighting death’s door. But, you know what’s coming next.

If all the melodramatic nonsense isn’t enough, you’re expected to stand up and cheer once the play resumes and the “injured” player suddenly rises from his prone position and miraculously sprints across the pitch like he’s running the Boston Marathon.

The silly shenanigans of flopping in soccer play way too much like a bad Italian opera for gutsy American sports fans. Forget about the flopping! USA fans favor American football every time.

MIKE - aka Mike Raffone - thee ultimate talking head on sports!

Standing not much taller than a corner flag, this German soccer player perfectly matches his Magic Dwarf nickname.

Considered one of the top FIFA players in the world, the quick and fast 5’7” Philipp Lahm packs a whole lot of punch into his pint-sized frame.

One of the sport’s best defenders, this Bayern Munich star boasts quick feet and stealth slide-tackling ability. He regularly stops the advances of rival Bundesliga players as well as those of the best international attackers from Africa, Europe and South America.

Spectators are often amazed by the Magic Dwarf’s speed, athleticism and amazing ability on the soccer pitch. Lahm regularly dispossesses opponents of the soccer ball in the open field.

Few FIFA footballers are as talented as the leprechaun looking Lahm. The tiny defender has dual foot ability that allows him to play both sides of the pitch.

Leading Germany to third place finishes in both the 2006 and 2010 World Cups, the Magic Dwarf has emerged as the obvious leader of the German national team.

German soccer fans are certain to witness more from the little Lahm in the future. In the next World Cup in Rio in 2014, expect the under- sized Magic Dwarf to play bigger than his already over-stated height and lead the German national team deep into the final rounds of the FIFA tournament.

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

Nicknamed the Berlin Wall, Italy’s made certain that nothing got past his defensive position on the soccer pitch.

Cannavaro’s brilliant defensive play during the 2006 World Cup in Germany demonstrated to FIFA fans around the globe why adoring Italians named this fortress-like footballer the Berlin Wall.

Like the hundred mile long cement wall that divided Germany from 1961 to 1989, nothing got past Cannavaro.

Because of Cannavaro’s dominant defense, Italy emerged as the 2006 World Cup champion. Along with teammate , Cannavaro played all 690 minutes in the World Cup tournament.

Incredibly, this Berlin Wall never chipped or faltered. In spite of defending many of the world’s greatest strikers, he completed the competition without receiving either a yellow or red card.

FIFA recognized Cannavaro’s excellence by awarding him the 2006 Ballon d’Or as the Top Football Player in the World. He became the oldest player to receive soccer’s highest individual honor. When he stood beside it, the twelve foot tall concrete wall that divided Germany for 28 years may have dwarfed the surprisingly short 5’9” Cannavaro.

However, when sizing up Fabio Cannavaro’s impact on the soccer pitch, no one will argue that he played like the Berlin Wall for which he was appropriately named.

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

The Beckhams, one of the sports and entertainment world’s most recognized celebrity couples, seem to have cornered the market on aromatic, flavorful nicknames.

Universally known as Posh Spice of the famous British all-girl pop group the Spice Girls, Victoria Beckham sang, danced and jiggled her way to global stardom in the 1990s.

During the same time period, her husband David Beckham emerged as one of the most celebrated soccer players on the planet while unwittingly acquiring the tongue-in-cheek nickname Spice Boy.

Victoria Beckham first called her husband Spice Boy during a 2007 CNN interview with talk show host Larry King. The cajoling and not entirely flattering nickname stuck, much to David Beckham’s chagrin.

Although Victoria Beckham’s ostentatious behavior may have riled the media and fans, her talented husband’s actions - especially on the soccer pitch - captivated them. Now one of the most marketable athletes in the world, Spice Boy David Beckham earned his stripes and cultivated a loyal global following during his professional soccer career.

Sports fans around the world, especially those who desire to bend it like Beckham with pinpoint accuracy, have embraced David Beckham as one of the sport’s best footballers - even with the cheeky nickname Spice Boy.

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

Music lovers believe that Great Britain’s Pete Best, the drummer who preceded Ringo Starr in the British band The Beatles, holds the revered rock n' roll title as the Fifth Beatle.

However, soccer fans, and especially those of British descent, universally recognize Northern Ireland's flamboyant footballer George Best as the Fifth Beatle for his iconic celebrity as one of the world's most gifted and entertaining soccer players.

This 5'9" Northern Irishman plied his trade for eleven years with Manchester United in the vaunted English Premier League where he scored an astounding 179 goals in 470 appearances.

Best's emergence as a beloved English athlete corresponded with the same era in which the Beatles were exploding as the British rock ‘n roll band that would eventually sell one billion records.

Though he excelled as one of soccer's most dynamic stars on the pitch, Best also partied like a rock star away from it. Sadly, Best's undisciplined lifestyle away from soccer contributed to his demise as a player and as an individual. George Best passed away in 2005 from alcohol related complications.

On a mural in his native Belfast, Northern Ireland, these words are written that any soccer fan, including John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr, would agree concerning this Fifth Beatle, "Maradona good. Pele better. George Best."

MIKE - aka Mike Raffone - thee ultimate talking head on sports!

Cristiano Ronaldo’s famous step-over move and ferociously powerful shots earned him the nickname Magic Feet. However, the dazzling Portuguese striker’s magical overall skill and toughness as a player reach far beyond his fantastic feet.

Cristiano Ronaldo is blessed with an ability to find the back of the net. The speedy Ronaldo has brought fear into the hearts of opposing teams each time his Magic Feet have touched the ball.

In 2009, Spanish La Liga club Real Madrid paid a $130 million transfer fee to Manchester United for Ronaldo. The move created a never before seen $1.3 billion buy-out clause for any other club interested in securing his services. His $20 million per year contract, not including earnings from endorsements and public appearances, makes him one of the richest footballers on the planet.

Magic Feet continues to dazzle fans and frustrate defenders. He’s done it not only with Real Madrid, but also for his native Portugal in international play. He’s worn the captain’s band since he turned 22 years old. Ronaldo has played in two World Cups and three European Championships, collecting 96 caps and scoring 36 times.

With no apparent weakness in his game, Cristiano Ronaldo is the complete soccer player. He’s always more than capable of scoring against any opponent with his head or, in his case, his Magic Feet.

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

The most famous missed call in the history of World Cup soccer has been forever remembered. It’s been given a divinely inspired nickname – the Hand of God.

During the 1986 World Cup quarter-final match-up between and England, Argentina’s illegally punched a loose ball in the box into the back of the net. Confirmed by video footage, Maradona’s obvious handball goal should have been immediately disallowed. But, the goal stood and eliminated an angry English team.

Yet, the chubby Argentine striker credited this unlikely goal to both his head and to the Hand of God. More than 25 years later, the Hand of God goal replays itself in heated debates whenever Maradona’s name is mentioned or when the 1986 World Cup game is discussed.

Oddly, Maradona’s other goal in the second half of Argentina’s 2 – 1 victory over England should be as keenly remembered. He brilliantly dribbled through five English defenders before finding the back of the net. This was called the goal of the century by FIFA in 2002.

When discussing the best footballers of all time, Diego Maradona is instantly named along with Pele, Lionel Messi and Johan Crujff. Maradona’s deft touches, sudden bursts of athleticism and amazing soccer skill secure his lore among the sport’s greatest icons.

However, fans’ recollections of Maradona will never leave out how the Argentine illegally scored a goal in a vital World Cup victory for his country with a little help from the Hand of God.

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

Lionel Messi’s collection of four Ballon d’Or Trophies for FIFA Player of the Year testifies to why this tiny Argentine is currently the greatest soccer player in the world.

Named among TIME Magazine’s Top 100 Most Influential People in 2012, Messi enjoyed perhaps the most prolific year in the history of the sport. In 2012 the Atomic Flea scored an astonishing 91 goals in all competitions for FC Barcelona and his native Argentina.

Against Bayer-Leverkusen in a March 7, 2012 UEFA Champions League match, Lionel Messi scored an amazing five times versus the German Bundesliga squad. Messi's UEFA quarterfinal masterpiece would be like LeBron James dropping 75 points in an Eastern Conference NBA Playoff Series, Arian Foster running for 300+ yards in an NFL Playoff Game or Derek Jeter going 7 for 7 in a ALCS Game.

Messi joined FC Barcelona in 2003 at age 16 and has amassed unparalleled individual and team accomplishments for a footballer who has probably still not reached his prime years in the sport.

A five-time La Liga Champion in Spain, Lionel Messi has won three UEFA Champions League titles and brought home an Olympic gold medal in 2008 from Beijing while representing his native Argentina.

Obviously, this pint-sized FC Barcelona prodigy makes a mockery of the misperception that "bigger is always better" in sports. The 5'6” footballer Messi proves that size doesn't really matter. Messi’s indomitable spirit has driven him to the height of soccer excellence.

MIKE – aka Mike Raffone – thee ultimate talking head on sports!

Mention the name Edson Arantes de Nascimento and only staunch soccer fans will recognize it. However, say the name Pele, and nearly everyone on the planet, whether soccer fan or not, will recognize this extraordinary Brazilian.

Pele is synonymous with the world's most popular sport. Universally regarded as the best international footballer (soccer player) of all- time, Pele received his simple nickname as a child in Brazil.

He scored an incredible 1,281 goals in 1,363 career matches. His speed and athleticism on the pitch were equaled by his uncanny footwork, ball control and pin-point passing.

Pele's awesome career was recognized in 1999. He was named Footballer of the Century by the International Federation of Football.

Pele's team accomplishments are unrivaled. Pele stands as the only player in soccer history to play on three World Cup championships teams. He starred on Brazil's 1958, 1962 and 1970 title teams. More than 40 years after his retirement, Pele's legend continues whenever the sport of soccer is discussed.

Dutch midfielder Johan Crujff claimed, "Pele was the only footballer who surpassed the boundaries of logic." German defender Franz Beckenbauer remarked, "Pele is the greatest player of all time. He reigned supreme for 20 years.

Crujff and Beckenbauer are right. There's no one to compare to Pele."

MIKE - aka Mike Raffone - thee ultimate talking head on sports!

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Meet the MIKE Makers, Jim and Maura Sweeney, as well as the other contributors to this exciting sports property. Jim Sweeney – Author

Born and raised in Trenton, New Jersey, Jim grew up with a passion for sports and fun. Participating in baseball, basketball, swimming, soccer and street hockey, Jim wound up playing basketball at Boston College where he captained the Eagles from 1977 – 1980 and received the Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award as the nation’s top NCAA basketball under six feet tall.

After a 20-year-career in sales, Jim closed the computer agency he founded to pursue a fun career in sports entertainment. Jim developed MIKE as an alter-ego sports personality and has penned 20+ books under the MIKE name for both kids as well as adults.

Jim also blogs regularly on national sports sites under the MIKE name and has developed dozens of MIKE Minute monologues for radio.

Now in his fifties and living on the West Coast of Florida, Jim continues to play basketball regularly and always finds time for fun. Jim is a World Masters Basketball Champion as well as a seven time USA Masters Basketball Champion in the 45+, 50+ and 55+ age groups.

For more on Jim - http://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesdsweeney Maura Sweeney – Publisher

A three-time best selling publisher of Inky Winky Spider pre-school books, Maura is an author, video blogger and a founder of The State of Happiness Talk Radio Show in Florida.

Maura became the driving force in encouraging her husband out of a highly successful business and into the pursuit of his dream – to create MIKE into the sports world’s ultimate talking head.

Maura is MIKE’s co-creator and publisher.

For more on Maura – http://www.maura4u.com

Primary Illustrator - Alex Salsberg

Cartoonist Alex Salsberg is the man behind Poke Gravy Studios in Boston. An ardent New England Patriots fan, Alex has created animation and illustration for many clients including Nickelodeon and National Lampoon.

Alex has drawn the cover and most of the other artwork in the book. His work can be seen at www.PokeGravy.com The Other Illustrators

Kevin Riley – Kevin Riley’s animations appear on Jumbotrons for the Tampa Bay Bucs, Cleveland Indians, St. Louis Cardinals and Orlando Magic. The Emmy Award winner’s work has also been featured on Nickelodeon, Noggin, Cartoon Network and Discovery Kids TV. Kevin resides in Tampa, Florida where he is founder of Riley Animation.

Richard Betancourt - Richard Betancourt studied drawing and painting at La Academia de San Carlos in Mexico and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Illustration from Art Center College. Residing in his home state of California, Richard started Milkbar Comics, an independent monthly comic.

Kaley Sweeney - Editor

As editor, Kaley infuses youthful enthusiasm and insight into the MIKE’s Sports Comic Book series. At 21 years old, Kaley holds a Bachelor’s in Journalism from Boston University and is pursuing her Master’s at Harvard University.

Kaley is co-founder of Empowered Voices, raising awareness for women in developing countries. http://www.linkedin.com/in/kaleysweeney The MIKE sports property is expected to be seen and heard on television, the web, radio and Jumbotrons.

Special thanks to these MIKE contributors :

Kevin Riley – Animator

Greg Stauffer – Studio Production

Dave Rittenhouse – Studio Production

Amy O’Hara-Cusick – Legal