Messi made his Barcelona debut 15 years ago — ProSoccerTalk

Messi, who was just 16-years old at the time and began the season five levels below the first team in Juveniles B, had impressed in a rare chance to play against the first team players and was brought along in the traveling squad. In the 75th minute, Rijkaard brought on Messi to play as a forward, and he created a pair of chances, nearly scoring on a sloppy pitch.

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A Tribute to Tomas Plekanec — ALL ABOUT THE HABS

Furthermore, he will go down as one of the most underrated players to wear a Habs jersey. From his turtleneck, to his goatee, to the many penalties killed off and the tireless efforts, we at All About The Habs, would like to formally wish Tomas Plekanec and his entire family a happy retirement from the NHL. We send our thanks for providing more than just hockey to the city of Montreal. You will always be a member of the Canadiens, for now until forever.

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Stu Cowan: Former Canadien Steve Bégin gets his high school degree — Montreal Gazette

More than 20,000 Quebecers drop out of high school each year and Bégin hopes he can inspire some of them to get their diploma. “I’m proud for my kids,” Bégin said about his two daughters — Méanne (14) and Maylia (11). “My kids go to school … so it would have been tough for me to talk to them about school, how important it is, if I’m not done with my high school. Now it’s done, so I can sit with them and talk about how important school is. “It’s just a great day.”

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