Translator Josef Solc

A Courageous Life Translator Josef Solc

Milos Solc was a great example. He was not only a noble, diligent, honest, and well educated man but also an exceptional sportsman and an especially great tennis player. He represented our country well while he played in many professional tournaments abroad. He played against the best tennis players of his time like Bill Tilden and Karel Kozeluh. His greatest years were before the 1950s when tennis was not sidelined by the communist regime. I remember quite well when I met him in 1957, as a promising young tennis player, during the Czechoslovak Championship for players up to 14 years old. Our accommodation was in a local college in large rooms for eight players. One evening Mr. Solc came in and suddenly said, "Not all of you can win. How many of you can pray?" We looked at him and did not know what to say. So he continued, "Just kneel down. When you pray you might win a match or two." We prayed, and some of us in fact won some matches. I won the same tournament in 1960. We met from time to time at the Tennis Academy where he was the coach. He shared his masterful experiences with exceptional optimism, and in this way he instilled in us the need to practice hard and to love tennis as he did. Milos Solc preached, praised, comforted, gave away, honored, and treasured everything that is good. Jan Kodes, Wimbledon and French Open Champion Christianity and sports can be woven together in the lives of those who are convinced such relationship is possible. My father proved that a professional tennis player could also become a preacher of the Gospel. His worldwide achievements in tennis and Christian ministry were done by God's grace and to the glory of his Savior Jesus Christ. As you read about his life, you will be inspired to accomplish great things for God no matter what the circumstances. Following the example of my father, helped me become a professional tennis and ice hockey player. When my professional career ended, I served many churches and taught at seminaries. Read this book and aim high in your desire to please the Almighty God. Josef Solc Ph. D.