I’ve known Mike Matkovich for a little over 10 years now, and I’ve listened to thousands – yes thousands – of college and high school coaches, players and parents praise “Matko” during that time. His honesty is a breath of fresh air in today’s politically correct, stuffy world – even when he’s disagreed with me.

But over the years, I’ve listened, learned and grown to admire Matkovich. His competitive drive to be the best has filtered through to countless players and coaches involved in the game today.

Gift No. 6 of Cornerkicks’ 12 gifts goes to the former Naperville North all-state star, Lewis University forward (that obtained two bachelor degrees - business and physical education), former Bolingbrook High School coach, former Lewis University coach, former Chicago Power coach, former Chicago Fire Premier coach, U.S. Men's National staff coach, Chicago Magic director and current Toronto FC (MLS) assistant coach.

The gift is a coaching position with the Chicago Fire, an organization that needs to put the ego aside and realize the positive impact a hire like this would send through the Chicagoland soccer community.