American dream
Published 11 Feb 2013 09:30
MLS star reflects on time in Johnstone
FORMER Gryffe High pupil Adam Moffat was just one when The Proclaimers released 'Letter From America' in 1987.
However, rarely have the lyrics 'Linwood no more' been as fitting to an individual as they are to this Scottish star currently plying his trade in Major League Soccer.
The 26-year-old, who now plays for Houston Dynamo, started his career at local boys club St. Convos, then move to Glentyan Thistle, followed by a transfer to St. Mirren.
After a brief spell at Ibrox and stints at Ross County and Elgin City, Moffat boarded a plane heading west as his American adventure began.
Division two side Cleveland City Stars was the destination and it was from there that Moffat's career really kicked off.
He exclusively told Gazette Sport: "It has been an up-and-down journey for me, but I have loved it and I'm really enjoying life right now.
"After playing for my local boys' clubs, who really helped me do well as a kid, it had been a tricky ride. After my time at Elgin, it was one of my coaches there, Richie, who called me and said there is an offer for you to go and try your hand in America, you can go if you want.
"I took the risk and it has paid off.
"At the age of 20, I was told I had a lot of potential and the small chance I had in Ohio was a gamble, but one that I am glad to have taken."
The midfielder was named in the MLS All Star Team and then signed for Columbus Crew in 2007 after making a lasting impression.
Following an impressive stint at his second Ohio club, where he even picked-up a MLS Cup winners medal, he moved to top-flight outfit Portland Timbers.
After excelling under former-Rangers striker John Spencer in Oregon, the Scot then made his move to Texas to sign for Houston Dynamo.
He added: "Things at Houston are going well for me and I am really enjoying my football here.
"We have been doing well and were unlucky to miss-out in the MLS Cup final to LA Galaxy last year, but it was another great experience.
"Playing against the likes of David Beckham, Robbie Keane and others, it was brilliant.
"Even when I won the MLS Cup, when I was with Columbus, I met the President at the White House which was crazy.
"I have scored a few goals here and the one that sticks out is my goal that was named as MLS goal of the week when I scored a 40-yarder against Portland.
"Overall, I am happy out here, I have been married for two years, have an eight-month-old daughter and life is great.
"My time in Scotland has really helped me make this jump and one day I would love to return and be playing for Scotland under the new-manager.
"It would be a dream come true and all I can do is keep working away to make that happen."
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