The Walk-On - Book Review

Richard Podkowski's intriguing sports fiction, The Walk-On, set in his native Chicago, follows the rise and fall of Mike “the Steelman” Stalowski, an aging NFL football player from the Southeast Side.

Like an intercepted pass, the novel grabs the reader's attention, as the hometown hero suffers the consequences of a poor game-of-life play.  The opening chapters set the dramatic tone and establish the Steelman's reputation as a player with a chip on his shoulder and uncontrollable rage.


Living in a fishbowl of media scrutiny and enjoying the spoils of being an NFL player, Mike’s antics lead to self-sabotage and tragedy. The intense and compelling story showcases the deep-seated emotional pain of his tragic youth and Mike’s unexpected, whirlwind relationship with Kim Richardson, who recognizes his true self. Unwilling to face the reality of his deteriorating physical condition, his goal of sporting a Super Bowl ring threatens his career and relationship with Kim.

Podkowski's powerful writing makes you virtually feel Mike’s raw emotions and struggles as he battles addiction and confronts the consequences of his destructive habits.

At a crossroads, with the help of Father Mac, his high school football coach and a young resident of the Angels of Mercy Home, Mike takes the first positive step toward forgiveness and redemption. Periodically, angels are woven into the story, beginning with a young lady’s wingless angel tattoo. The unexpected conclusion reveals the connection with St. Michael the Archangel, associated with courage, protection, and divine intervention.

The reader is left knowing that anyone can take a wrong turn, love and loss are inevitable, and people who are given second chances can face the future with hope, even after tragic losses.

The Walk-On will be an eye-opener for the reader with little knowledge of the intricacies of the world of college or professional football. A lack of football knowledge will not detract from the intense characterizations and their interactions.

Podkowski's novel is an intriguing tale of love, loss, and the possibility of redemption. It delves into the consequences of life's pivotal decisions and the powerful rewards that can come from faith and hope. The writing style is effortlessly engaging, making it a breeze to follow along. The diverse and complex cast of characters adds depth and richness to the story, while seamlessly complementing one another. And the dynamics between Mike and Kim as they navigate the emotional highs and lows of a budding relationship add an interesting romance into The Walk-On.

With its poignant, exciting, and heartbreaking storyline, The Walk-On by Richard Podkowski is a searing and powerful novel that solidifies the debut author's status as one of the finest new sports novelists.