News from the Hall

Hall of Fame Announces Festival of Trees Schedule
ONEONTA, NY (November 18, 2008) – The National Soccer Hall of Fame today announced details of the Festival of Trees event, scheduled for December 5 through 14. “We are continuing the tradition of working with community non-profit organizations,” Hall of Fame Events Manager Pamela Frutiger said. “There will be uniquely decorated trees, music and dance, a craft fair, and many other activities to engage and entertain the community.”

Daytime admission to the Festival of Trees is free courtesy of these generous Day Sponsors: Central New York Radio Group, Clark Companies of Delhi, Hughson & Benson Insurance, MeadWestvaco, My Hero Deli of Delhi, and MVP Healthcare.

Over 25 holiday trees designed by community members are always the highlight of the Festival. “The Museum becomes quite a festive scene,” Hall of Fame President Steve Baumann said. “We enjoy the community interaction that comes from this event. The business and community group holiday parties we host during the week are terrific as they offer a chance for the guests to learn more about the history we present as well as celebrating the holidays with colleagues.”

The spotlight event for the Festival is always the Friday evening Gala. The announcement of prize-winning trees amidst the music of the season, is always a special moment. With multiple categories from most beautiful to most creative, there are many award-winning trees. The Gala stage will be filled with excerpts from the Nutcracker as performed by the Folkine Ballet School. 

You could win one of the trees and take it home on the 14th by entering the tree raffle. The raffle is priced at $5 per ticket, 5 tickets for $20 and will continue throughout the week.

Key events for the Festival of Trees include:

• The Grand Opening Gala on Friday, December 5 from 7:00 PM until 10:00. The evening will include excerpts from the upcoming Nutcracker performance by Folkine Ballet School. Tickets for the Gala are available at the Hall of Fame for $10 per person.
• A Festival of Trees Craft Fair on Saturday, December 6 beginning at 9:00 AM and continuing until 4:00 PM
• Home Party Bazaar on Saturday, December 13 from 10 AM to 4 PM. The Bazaar will feature an array of home party merchandise, including Avon, Inspiranza, Lia Sophia, Mary Kay, Pampered Chef, and Party Lite
• Music performances on Saturday, December 6 and Saturday, December 13
• Food collections for the Opportunities For Otsego Food Bank throughout the entire Festival
• Catholic Charities O’ Christmas Tea on Saturday, December 6 offering coffee and tea, soup and sandwiches, and dessert items.

Details of each day’s events and award-winning tree announcements are available on the Hall of Fame’s website, www.soccerhall.org.

Tree sponsors are many. They will be credited in the program, on the web site and with the sponsored display.

Four Hall of Famers Named to NCAA 50th Anniversary Soccer Team
ONEONTA, NY (November 4, 2008) – Hall of Famers Paul Caligiuri, John Harkes, and Al Trost have been named to the NCAA Men’s Soccer 50th Anniversary Team. In addition Hall of Famer Jerry Yeagley was named as coach of the team.

“What a terrific honor for all the individuals involved,” Hall of Fame President Steve Baumann said. “All the players on the team had tremendous collegiate careers, but these three players were able to go on to both international and professional careers that are among the best in history. And Jerry certainly has earned the honor as coach of this team with his remarkable record of six NCAA Division I championships as a coach and, of course, one as a player in 1961 with West Chester University.”

Caligiuri played for the United States 110 times and had a 6-season career in Major League Soccer. The former UCLA Bruin was the first native-born player to establish a professional career in the German Bundesliga. He represented the U.S. in the 1990 and 1994 World Cups. Many believe that the most significant moment in his career and, perhaps, in U.S. soccer history was his goal against Trinidad and Tobago on November 19, 1989. The goal and the consequent 1 – 0 result sent the U.S. to the World Cup for the first time in 40 years. Paul was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2004.

Harkes was also on the field against T&T that day and went on from the 1990 World Cup to a professional career in the English League. He played 90 times for the United States, including play in the 1990 and 1994 World Cup. His 7-year MLS career included two MLS Cup championships with D.C. United and he was a 5-time MLS all-star. His career in England included the “Goal of the Year” in 1990 on a 35-yard laser that beat England and Derby County ‘keeper Peter Shilton. Harkes, a Univ. of Virginia Cavalier, was inducted in the Class of 2005.

Trost played 14 times for the United States in the 70s when international matches were rare. The St. Louis University All America player was captain of the 1972 Olympic Team and went on to captain the full national team. He played seven seasons in the North American Soccer League and was a 3-time NASL all-star. Al was a 2-time winner of the Hermann Award, emblematic of the nation’s top collegiate player. His Billiken team won NCAA championships in those two years, 1969 and 1970. Trost was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2006.

Yeagley was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1989 in recognition of his already impressive career. Two members of the 50th Anniversary Team played for him at Indiana University, Armando Betancourt and Angelo DiBernardo.  His six NCAA Championships are matched by his 6-time National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) Coach of the Year awards. His players earned NSCAA All-America honors 49 times; 65 played professional soccer and 20 have played for the U.S. National Team.

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Huckel to be Color Analyst on the NSCAA College Game of the Week
ONEONTA, NY (October 7, 2008) – Jack Huckel, Director of Museum and Archives at the National Soccer Hall of Fame, will serve as color analyst for this Thursday’s NSCAA College Game of the Week on Fox Soccer Channel. The match will be an America East Conference women’s game between Binghamton University and league-leading Boston University played at Binghamton. Broadcast time is 8:00 ET PM.
 
Huckel coached soccer for 30 years before leaving the profession to join the Hall of Fame. Prior to coaching he had a high school, collegiate, and amateur career as a player. He has radio broadcast experience as a color analyst when he was on the broadcast team for the Maine High School Championships in the 1980s. An avid student of soccer, Huckel has earned the NSCAA Premier Diploma and the U.S. Soccer ‘A’ Coaching License.
 
“Not only is Jack a student of soccer history, but he has been playing and coaching for more than 45 years,” Hall of Fame President Steve Baumann said. “He brings a wealth of knowledge to this role and will provide valuable insight for the coaches and players watching.”
 
Fox Soccer Channel is America’s soccer channel, bringing collegiate, MLS, and international matches to soccer fans across the country. For a complete schedule of games and broadcast times, visit www.foxsoccer.com.

The National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) helps its members excel in their coaching careers as well as advances the coaching of soccer, thereby improving players, through a commitment to provide the best coaching education, convention, and member services and benefits to the soccer community. Learn more about the NSCAA at www.nscaa.com.

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D.C. United, 2008 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Champions, Honored at Hall of Fame
ONEONTA, NY (September 25, 2008) – The Hall of Fame has updated the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup display to honor the 2008 Champions, D.C. United. A 2008 champion’s plate was added to the Dewar Challenge Trophy, the 96-year-old traditional trophy of the competition, and a team jersey, shoes, and ball, all from the championship match, were placed on display.

“Soccer history is made virtually every day,” Hall of Fame President Steve Baumann said, “and our role is to place the current history-making accomplishments into historical perspective. D.C. United, for the second time, joins the illustrious history of U.S. Soccer’s national championship – a championship that began in 1914 and includes such famous teams as Bethlehem Steel of the teens and 20s, St. Louis’ Stix, Baer and Fuller of the 30s, Brooklyn Hispano of the 40s on into the modern era when Major League Soccer has joined the competition.”

“We are proud to be champions for a second time,” said D.C. United President Kevin Payne. “D.C. United has a tremendous tradition of success in the 13 seasons of Major League Soccer and we are pleased to share our team’s championship artifacts with the Hall of Fame.”

The signed jersey on display is from Luciano Emilio, who scored the first goal in the 2 – 1 victory over the Charleston Battery. The white shoes are from Fred who scored the game winning goal in the 49th minute. The game ball has been signed by all the members of the championship squad. A picture of the display may be downloaded from the Hall of Fame Web site - click here.

The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup is the U.S. Soccer National Championship and is open to all teams, amateur and professional. A wide open “winner-take-all” elimination competition, the 2008 championship match pitted D.C. United against the United Soccer Leagues Division 1 Charleston Battery. The history of the competition has seen amateur teams defeat professionals and underdog teams advance to be champions. For a full list of champions visit the Hall of Fame’s web site, www.soccerhall.org.

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Hall of Fame to Announce Induction Class on Fox Soccer Channel
ONEONTA, NY   September 23, 2008 – The National Soccer Hall of Fame will announce the Player Induction Class of 2009 live on Fox Soccer Channel on the evening of January 15th at the National Soccer Coaches Association of America Annual Convention in St. Louis, MO. This will be the first time the Hall of Fame has made the announcement on live television.
 
“We are excited to be making the introductions on Fox Soccer Channel and at the NSCAA Convention,” Hall of Fame President Steve Baumann said. “Combining the traditions of St. Louis soccer and the NSCAA with the growing impact Fox Soccer Channel is having in the soccer community makes it a terrific venue for the announcement.” The Hall of Fame plans to have the new inductees in attendance for the announcement event.
 
The 2009 Player Induction Class will be unveiled during Center Circle Live at the NSCAA Convention, presented by Kwik Goal, airing from 8-10 p.m. ET.  Hosted by Fox Soccer Channel’s lead commentator Max Bretos, this unique program will, in addition, bring together leading figures from the sport for a fast-paced discussion on the state of soccer in the U.S.
 
“Fox Soccer Channel is honored to host the announcement of the National Soccer Hall of Fame Class of 2009 during Center Circle Live from the NSCAA Convention in St. Louis,” said Dermot McQuarrie, Senior Vice President and Assistant General Manager of Fox Soccer Channel.  “It provides an opportunity for a wider audience of soccer fans to celebrate this most-important event on the national sporting calendar.”
 
Additionally, the Hall of Fame released the timetable for elections of the Class of 2009.
 
The Player Ballot will be officially released the last week of October and will be distributed to voters by November 1st. It will be due by November 20th. Should a second round election be needed to elect a player, ballots will be distributed to those who voted in the first round on December 1st and be due on December 11th.
 
Both the Veteran Player and Builder elections have a 2-stage process. The initial stage will be completed in October with the final ballot for each category announced the first week of November. Announcement of the results of the Builder and Veteran Elections have not been finalized.

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Hall of Fame to Host Glenn 'Mooch' Myernick Memorial Middle School Soccer Jamboree
ONEONTA, NY (September 22, 2008) – The National Soccer Hall of Fame will host the 1st Annual Glenn ‘Mooch’ Myernick Memorial Middle School Soccer Jamboree on September 27th and 28th. Each day will feature boy’s and girl’s middle school soccer matches, an appearance by U.S. Women’s National Team star Abby Wambach, and educational programming. Sixteen area and regional teams will attend the program, including teams from Cherry Valley, Franklin, Milford, Morris, and Schenevus.
 
“Our goal was to create an event that was more than just soccer, but, in a tribute to Glenn, reflected the importance of putting soccer into a life perspective,” Hall of Fame President Steve Baumann said. “We have done that through the educational programming and through Abby’s presentation to the players. They will be receiving a message about healthy living and the values Glenn so fervently believed in – dedication to goals, hard work, making what you are doing fun, and in being modest about your accomplishments.”
 
Wambach, described by U.S. Soccer as “the most dangerous striker in the world” will speak with the teams during the lunch break each day. She is also providing a featured presentation open to the community on Saturday, September 27th at 7:00 PM in the Museum.
 
Educational programming will include:

1) Soccer clinics presented by the Delhi College men’s and women’s soccer teams,
2) Reality Check: a New York organization created by teens to expose the tricks, lies and manipulation that the tobacco industry relentlessly uses to get us to smoke.
3) A Nutrition Workshop, and
4) The Century Council’s Ask, Listen, Learn program, a highly creative initiative that encourages parents to have an ongoing dialog about the dangers of alcohol with their kids and provides effective resources to start the conversation.

Various events of the day have been made possible with funding by the Otsego County Bed Tax Event Grants Program. Otsego County Tourism, 800-843-3394/visitcooperstown.com. Additional support was provided by the A. Lindsay & Olive B. O'Connor Foundation, MVP Healthcare, Reality Check, SUNY Colleges at Delhi and at Oneonta, and the Century Council.

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Wambach Going to Washington Freedom
ONEONTA, NY (September 17, 2008) – Abby Wambach, who will be at the Hall of Fame on Saturday, September 27th, has been allocated to the Washington Freedom of Women’s Professional Soccer. The new women’s league begins play next spring.
 
Wambach is recovering from a broken leg suffered in the final tune-up match before the Olympic Games. “My rehabilitation is going very well and I am looking forward to getting back on the field with the National Team and the Freedom,” she said. “I want the fans in Oneonta to know how much I love and cherish this game and I want to share my dreams and aspirations for the future of soccer in the country.”
 
“Abby is a tremendous representative for soccer, for the women’s game and for the new women’s league,” Hall of Fame President Steve Baumann said. “We are very pleased to have her with us and know she will excite the community with her presentation Saturday evening.”
 
Wambach is described as “the most dangerous striker” in international women’s soccer and is the current top goal scorer for the U.S. Women’s National Team. She will be making a presentation at the Hall of Fame on Saturday, September 27th at 7:00 followed by a “meet and greet.” Originally from upstate New York, Abby has consistently returned to the region for soccer clinics and to bring her uplifting can-do message to young players and fans.
 
The Museum will feature extended hours on Saturday, from 10 AM until the conclusion of the program. Admittance to the program is included in the Museum admission.

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Hall of Famer Ray Bernabei Passes Away
ONEONTA, NY (September 7, 2008) – Hall of Famer Ray Bernabei, captain of the 2-time U.S. Open Cup Champion Harmarville (PA) Hurricane team, passed away on September 5th in Orlando, FL from complications of non-Hodgkins lymphoma. He was 83 years old and  a member of the National Soccer Hall of Fame Induction Class of 1978. Bernabei was also elected to the National Intercollegiate Soccer Officials Association (NISOA) Hall of Fame in 1976.
 
“Ray was a vital person,” Hall of Fame President Steve Baumann said, “and it was a joy to see him during the Induction 2008 weekend. His contributions to soccer as a player, a referee, and as Executive Director of NISOA are legendary in the soccer community. We will miss his stories and his smile immensely.”
 
The Harmarville club rose to national prominence in the early 50s as nationally competitive soccer was waning in the Pittsburgh area. In the 30s and 40s very competitive teams and players had emerged from Pittsburgh’s suburbs with Morgan - Strasser advancing to two Open Cup finals in those years. The area also produced World Cup and Hall of Fame players like Aldo ‘Buff’ Donelli (Class of 1954), Nick D’Orio (Class of 1974), and Bob Craddock (Class of 1997). The Hamarville side won U.S. Soccer’s National Championship in 1952 and 1956 with Bernabei as captain and playing in the center halfback position, essentially today’s central defender in the 3-player back line. As the lynchpin of the defense, he keyed a squad that defeated clubs from larger and more well-known soccer metropolitan areas, including the Philadelphia Nationals 7 - 5 in the 1952 2-leg final and Chicago Schwaben 3 - 2 in 1956 2-leg final.
 
A Mass of Christian Burial for Ray is scheduled for Friday at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Victory Church in Harwick, PA. A viewing is being held on Thursday evening at the Charles B. Jarvie Funeral Home at 1607 Pittsburgh Street in Cheswick, PA.

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U.S. Women's National Soccer Team Abby Wambach to Appear at the Hall of Fame
ONEONTA, NY (September 3, 2008) – U.S. Women’s National Team forward Abby Wambach will share her reflections on the 2008 Olympic Gold Medal winning U.S. Women’s National Team and her pursuit of excellence as the most prolific scorer in U.S. women’s soccer on Saturday, September 27th at 7:00 PM. The appearance will take place at the National Soccer Hall of Fame and Museum in Oneonta, NY.
 
“Abby has produced goals at a prodigious rate,” Hall of Fame President Steve Baumann said. “She has clearly been a leader of our women’s team and the sight of her laying on the field appealing for help after breaking her leg just before the Olympics was one of the most heart-rending in recent memory.”
 
“However, this is an extraordinary woman who has shown the ability to meet and overcome adversity,” Baumann continued. “She is one goal short of 100, placing her 5th on the All-Time U.S. goal scoring list. What’s remarkable is that those who are ahead of her, with the exception of Hall of Famer Michelle Akers, have all played more than twice the number of games. This is an incredible opportunity to meet and hear from one of the great players in history – an Olympic Gold Medalist at the 2004 Athens Olympics, a Women’s United Soccer Association professional champion in 2003, scoring the sudden death game-winning goal, and an NCAA Division I Champion in 1998.”
 
“I am looking forward to visiting the Hall of Fame,” Abby said. “I hope I’ll be able to pass along the thrill I get from soccer and from my amazing teammates, past and present, like Hall of Famers Mia Hamm and Julie Foudy, and my current teammates who did such a great job in winning the Gold Medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.”
 
Her career as an outstanding player began in her hometown of Pittsford, NY, on the Our Lady of Mercy High School girls’ soccer team, a top high school squad that won three section championships only to lose in the NY State Finals. While attending the University of Florida she won an NCAA Division I National Championship in 1998. Following graduation she joined the Washington Freedom of the WUSA where the team won the 2003 league championship on an Abby goal.
 
She joined the national team in 2001 and has played in two FIFA Women’s World Cups and won an Olympic Gold Medal at the 2004 Athens Games. She has scored 99 goals in 127 games, the best strike rate in U.S. women’s soccer history. She broke her leg this past June in the final warm-up match prior to the Olympics and is now rehabbing the injury. She expects to be on the field when Women’s Professional Soccer, the new women’s league, kicks off in the spring of 2009.
 
The Museum will have extended hours on September 27th, opening at 10:00 AM and remaining open until 9:00 PM. Standard Museum admission rates will apply to those attending the program.
 
This event is made possible with funding by the Otsego County Bed Tax Event Grants Program. Otsego County Tourism, 800.843.3394 • visitcooperstown.com. Additional support was provided by the A. Lindsay & Olive B. O'Connor Foundation, and MVP Healthcare.

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Hall of Fame Revamps Election Criteria
ONEONTA, NY (August 20, 2008) – The Board of Directors of the National Soccer Hall of Fame and Museum has revamped the threshold for the election of recently retired players. Previously, the minimum percentage for election required receiving votes on 75% of the ballots cast. Going forward a player named on 66.7% of the ballots will be elected to the Hall of Fame. “After much research and discussion, the Board determined that the election threshold needed to change to better ensure that a recently retired player or players will be elected each year,” Hall of Fame President Steve Baumann said. "The change to a lesser supermajority vote will increase the chance a player will be elected on the first round ballot, while, at the same time, make certain there is overwhelming support for that player’s election.”
 
The change in supermajority would not have changed the results of any election in the past five years other than the 2008 year in which no player was elected to the Hall of Fame. In the 2008 election the two players who received the most votes, Joy Fawcett and  Preki Radosavljevic, received votes on more than 66.7% of the ballots cast.
 
If no player meets the new election threshold, a second round ballot will be conducted among those voters who participated in the initial round of balloting. The five players who received the most votes in the first round will be placed on the second ballot. Voters will be asked to rank the players on a 5-4-3-2-1 basis with 5 being the most deserving player. The player who receives the most points will be elected to the Hall of Fame. If there is a tie for most points, all those tied will be elected to the Hall of Fame.
 
The Board, at its May meeting, also lengthened the waiting period following retirement for eligibility from three years from the date of retirement to three full calendar years after the year of retirement. The effect of this change will see no new players added to the Hall of Fame’s 2009 Player Ballot.
 
The new eligibility and election criteria will go into effect for the 2009 election cycle.

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Hall of Fame Receives New York State Funds for New Field
ONEONTA, NY (August 11, 2008) – New York State Senator James L. Seward announced that New York State has placed a $300,000 capital expenditure in the 2008-2009 NYS budget for the purpose of adding a fifth field to the National Soccer Hall of Fame field complex.

The new field will allow the Hall of Fame to expand its summer tournament and camp offerings as well as become an even more attractive host for the New York State Boy’s Soccer Championships. “This is about job growth and economic development for Oneonta and the county by utilizing our assets and boosting tourism," Seward said. "The spin-off effect helps restaurants, lodging and retailers, and ultimately, it's a shot in the arm for our sales tax receipts."

"We are elated and thankful to receive this grant,” Hall of Fame President Steve Baumann said.”This will be a wonderful addition to our current fields. We have four world-class award winning fields on campus now. The fifth field will be equal in quality and these funds will make it possible to have the infrastructure to keep it that way. We will be able to host more teams and more events and bring more people to Oneonta because of this award.”

The Hall of Fame has hosted the New York State Boy’s Championship weekend for eight years. In 2006 the tournament moved from four competitive classes to five, making the scheduling of the tournament much tighter on the day of semifinals when 10 matches take place. “A fifth field will make the tournament easier to schedule and manage,” Hall of Fame Program Manager Pamela Frutiger said. “We have lived in fear of a snow fall that delays games or of semifinals on the same field that go to overtime that might extend the competition into dusk or force us to carry over the finish of matches until the next day. We have not needed to do that so far, but it is a concern. A fifth field will alleviate that concern.”

At times in the past the Hall of Fame has needed to limit tournament offerings or turn away teams because of limited field space. The fifth field will minimize that occurrence in the future.

Construction will begin as soon as practicable with negotiations ongoing with potential field construction companies.

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National Soccer Hall of Fame Featured in Sports Illustrated Column

ONEONTA, NY (July 28, 2008) – A visit to the National Soccer Hall of Fame and Museum is a responsibility of all soccer fans in the United States according to SI.com columnist Greg Lalas. He writes: “Make a pilgrimage to the National Soccer Hall of Fame in Oneonta, N.Y. The United States' rich and textured history in this sport is more than 1950, Paul Caligiuri's goal, and Alexi Lalas' goatee. There are also Bethlehem Steel, the most successful club of the early part of the 20th century; Davey Brown, a 5-foot-3 striker from New Jersey, who scored 52 goals in 38 games in the 1926 - 27 season; and Atlantic Records founder Ahmet Ertegun, the genius who signed both Sonny & Cher and Led Zeppelin, and also owned the New York Cosmos. Their names and stories should be known.”

“Greg has honored us with his writing and his belief that a visit to Oneonta is every soccer fan’s obligation,” Hall of Fame President Steve Baumann said. “The Museum covers close to 150 years of soccer in the United States. Greg has just scratched the surface in his column. We have thousands of photographs, hours of video, and tons of documents that help us tell the story of the people, teams and leagues that created soccer here. The Museum exhibits unique and valuable artifacts like the 1922 U.S. Open Cup medal won by Hall of Famer Fred Beardsworth, the ball that Joe Gaetjens headed into to the goal to defeat England in the 1950 FIFA World Cup, and, of course, the 2 World Cup trophies our U.S. Women’s National Team has won. Many of the photographs on exhibit are rare, and the video is a classic viewing of historic moments.”

The Museum is open daily during the summer months. Visit www.soccerhall.org for all you travel needs and for special events like Induction 2008 coming the first weekend in August.

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Schmid 100th Victory Memorabilia Goes on Display

ONEONTA, NY (May 21, 2008) – On April 26, 2008 Columbus Crew coach Sigi Schmid became only the second coach in Major League Soccer history to win 100 matches. Memorabilia from the game has been placed on display in the MLS case at the Hall of Fame.

On display in the Museum is the sweatshirt Schmid wore at the match and a game ball signed by the entire Crew squad. "It is a great honor to reach 100 wins," Schmid said. "I am proud of all the good players and teams I have been privileged to coach. Having this accomplishment recognized and displayed at the National Soccer Hall of Fame is something I will treasure always."

“It’s a difficult proposition to win 100 matches in a league with such great parity,” Hall of Fame President Steve Baumann said. “We congratulate Sigi on his accomplishment and wish him many more wins as he tries to bypass current U.S. National Team coach Bob Bradley.” Bradley set the MLS wins record at 124.

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Hall of Famer John Harkes Featured in Mental_Floss Magazine

ONEONTA, NY (May 19, 2008) – Hall of Famer John Harkes (Class of 2005) is featured as one of "10 American Sports Heroes You Won’t Find on a Wheaties Box” in the May-June, 2008 issue of Mental_Floss magazine. Writer Ethan Trex cited John for convincing Europeans that Americans can play soccer at the international level. “…he quickly earned their respect after smoking a 35-yard game-winning goal in the last minute of a match…selected…as England’s goal of the year.” Trex also said “His feistiness proved to the British that Americans could excel…and it paved the way for the influx of Americans playing in Europe today.”

"I am excited that almost twenty years later that my goal against Derby and the significance of it are still important," Hall of Famer John Harkes said. "I look back and remember those beginning years in my career fondly. Several of my 1990 World Cup teammates also played in Europe, and also created opportunities for American players. I share this accolade with them."

“John earned this recognition through his hard work, dedication, and great play in England,” Hall of Fame President Steve Baumann said. “Too often our soccer heroes have toiled in anonymity. It’s wonderful to see John’s modern-day pioneering efforts recognized.”

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Hall of Famer Gordon Bradley Passes Away

ONEONTA, NY (April 30, 2008) – Hall of Famer Gordon Bradley, Class of 1996, passed away on April 29 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. “Soccer has lost a good friend and a mentor to many,” Hall of Fame President Steve Baumann said. “His contributions are a significant part of the history of the game beginning in the 60s and carrying through the 90s. His honest and good-natured relationships with people both in and outside soccer were a hallmark of his personality and his career. We extend our sincere condolences to his wife Vera and the entire Bradley family.”

Bradley is, perhaps, best remembered as the coach of the New York Cosmos when Pele signed with the organization in 1976, but his contributions to soccer in North America began in the 60s and continued through the 90s. Born in Sunderland, England on November 23, 1938, he immigrated to Canada in 1963 to play for Toronto Roma of the Eastern Canada Professional Soccer League. He continued playing into the 70s, but also began a coaching career as an assistant with the New York Generals in 1968. In 1971 he became the player-coach of the newly formed New York Cosmos, continuing with that team into the 1976 season. He finished his NASL coaching career after three seasons with the Washington Diplomats. He also appeared once for the U.S. National Team in 1973 when he also served as the coach for five matches.

Following his professional coaching career, Gordon coached at George Mason University from 1985 through the 2000 season.

The Gordon Bradley Memorial Service to be Held at George Mason Stadium The public service is scheduled for Friday May 9 at 1 p.m.Fairfax, Va. (May 1, 2008)--The Gordon Bradley family has announced that they will celebrate his life at a public memorial service at George Mason Stadium on Friday May 9 at 1:00 p.m. Seating will be in the stands at the stadium on campus where the U.S. National Hall-of-Famer Bradley coached for 16 seasons and remains the most successful soccer coach in George Mason history. Gordon Bradley, who led the Patriots to six NCAA Tournament appearances, died on Tuesday in Manassas. He was 74 years old. Bradley suffered from Alzheimer's disease for several years. “ George Mason was a special place for Gordon and, our family is truly thankful that Mason is hosting the celebration of his life,” son Paul Bradley said. “The 16 years he spent there were some of the happiest years of his life not only because he enjoyed coaching soccer, but because he loved working with students and teaching the game of life.” The Bradley family requests that memorial donations be made to The Gordon Bradley Scholarship Endowment in association with George Mason University. To contribute, call (703) 993-3215. George Mason University George Mason Stadium (Corner of Ox Road (123) and University Dr.) 4400 University Dr. Fairfax, Va. 22030 Parking will be available in the adjacent lots to George Mason Stadium and “Hap” Spuhler Baseball Field. For more information on the service, please contact Paul Bradley at (571) 221-7175 or Paul@marqueerealestate.com.

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Hall of Fame Induction a Top Ten Moment

ONEONTA, NY (April 16, 2008) – The National Soccer Hall of Fame Induction 2007 was named #9 of the 2007 Top Ten Moments in Women’s Sports as proclaimed by the Women’s Sports Foundation (WSF). Excerpts from the induction of Mia Hamm and Julie Foudy were featured when the Top Ten were revealed at The Billie Awards, the Women’s Sports Foundation Annual Awards program last night.

“We are delighted to receive this recognition from the Women’s Sports Foundation,” Hall of Fame President Steve Baumann said. “Every induction ceremony is very special for us, but the first all-female player class was certainly a moment of historical impact. We are pleased to be partners with the Women's Sports Foundation in the support and building of soccer playing opportunities for girls and women of all ages. We believe that the example that Julie and Mia have set will inspire others to follow in their path. We celebrate, again, the achievements of Julie and Mia and all the other individuals honored at The Billie Awards.”

The Billie Awards, named for WSF founder Billie Jean King, annually honor media excellence in the portrayal of girls and women in sports and physical activity. The Awards Dinner and Ceremony were held last evening at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills and included a special performance by Sir Elton John.

National Soccer Hall of Fame Partners with Sports Museum of America to Create Nation's First All-Sports Museum

ONEONTA, NY (March 13, 2008) – National Soccer Hall of Fame President Stephen Baumann announced a partnership today with the Sports Museum of America (SmA).

The National Soccer Hall of Fame now joins over 50 single-sport Halls of Fame, National Governing Bodies, Museums and other sports organizations across North America as a Founding Sports Partner of the Sports Museum of America (SmA), www.sportsmuseum.com. Scheduled to open in New York City in May 2008, SmA is the Nation's first and only museum to celebrate all sports under one roof. Filled with original films, state-of-the-art interactive exhibits/displays and an iconic collection of memorabilia, SmA will richly showcase the history, grandeur and significance of sports in American culture through great sports' stories of courage, education and triumph.

According to Baumann, this exciting new partnership will introduce a broad new audience to the thrills of soccer. “The National Soccer Hall of Fame and Museum is proud to partner with the Sports Museum of America in furtherance of our dedication to soccer in America,” Steve Baumann, Hall of Fame President said. “American soccer continues to extend its impact as a contributor to the world's game and, of course, New York is America’s greatest international city. It is natural that we join as museums to further the work to energize participation, inspire excellence, and celebrate achievement in the world's most popular sport. We expect our partnership will introduce many more individuals and families to the history and uniqueness of the 'beautiful game'.”

"The Sports Museum of America is extremely pleased to have the National Soccer Hall of Fame join our more than 50 exclusive sports partner organizations to create the first comprehensive museum of sports," says Founder and CEO Philip Schwalb. "Soccer holds a special place in American sports culture. We’re a nation filled with soccer moms, families and kids. We look forward to sharing soccer’s tremendous legacy -- from past stars of American soccer like Billy Gonsalves and Pele to the newest Hall of Fame Players, Mia Hamm and Julie Foudy, to the stars of tomorrow -- with our millions of visitors. We’re particularly proud to count Hall of Famers Julie Foudy and Michelle Akers and soccer legend Claudio Reyna among our prestigious Honorary Board. We’ll also excite our fans about the National Soccer Hall of Fame in Oneonta, New York, and encourage them to visit there for the ultimate celebration of soccer."

Under the terms of the partnership, the National Soccer Hall of Fame will provide archival soccer materials, such as the 1973 NASL Championship Trophy, Michelle Akers Day Proclamation by the State of Washington and Hall of Famer Alexi Lalas’ New England Revolution jersey. Other memorabilia pertaining to the history of soccer and of interest to the projected one million worldwide annual visitors to SmA will be sent on a rotating basis. Likewise, joint promotional efforts will be undertaken by both partners, and SmA will make an annual donation to support the National Soccer Hall of Fame.

In addition to the artifacts and soccer memorabilia from the National Soccer Hall of Fame, SmA will also feature high-profile soccer artifacts such as Mia Hamm’s World Cup jersey and the sports bra Brandi Chastain made famous during the 1999 Women’s World Cup.

SmA is widely anticipated to be a vibrant new addition to the redevelopment of Lower Manhattan by significantly increasing commercial and tourist activity in the area.

The Sports Museum of America (SmA) is the nation's first and only all-sports experience richly showcasing the history, grandeur and significance of sports in American culture. Created in exclusive partnership with over 50 single-sport Halls of Fame, National Governing Bodies and other sports organizations across North America, SmA features amazing state-of-the-art interactive technologies, dramatic original films and an iconic collection of sports memorabilia. SmA will also be home to the legendary Heisman Trophy (and annual televised presentation) and the Billie Jean King International Women's Sports Center, including the first Women's Sports Hall of Fame. Located in New York City at 26 Broadway (next to the “Charging Bull” and footsteps from the Statue of Liberty Ferry), the Sports Museum of America will open in May 2008. www.sportsmuseum.com

Contacts:
Jack Huckel 607.432.3351 x209 or jack@soccerhall.org

Rubenstein Communications, Inc. – Public Relations
Alison Hendrie 212.843.8029 or Ahendrie@rubenstein.com

Sports Museum of America (SmA)
Barbara Pflughaupt 212.837.7962 or Barbara@thesportsmuseum.com

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The Mission of the National Soccer Hall of Fame is to Celebrate the History, Honor the Heroes,
Inspire the Youth and Preserve the Legacy of Soccer in the United States.

Located in Oneonta, NY, the National Soccer Hall of Fame opened a new 30,000 sq.ft., state-of-the-art multimedia museum in 1999 and is open every day of the year except Christmas, New Year’s, and Thanksgiving. The Hall of Fame tells the story of soccer in America through artifacts, photographs, video and written narratives. The main VideoWall portrays some of the greatest moments and the greatest goals in soccer history as well as live soccer action from the World Cup, MLS, and U.S. Soccer matches. The Hall features an extensive interactive, youth oriented Kicks Zone, including a kid-sized indoor field, where visitors have fun kicking, heading and playing computer trivia stations and video soccer games. Unique and rare artifacts on exhibit range from The Dewar Cup, the oldest team trophy in U.S. Sport, to the Women’s World Cup won by the USA in 1999, the uniforms of Pele and Mia Hamm’s, Kristine Lilly’s golden shoes, NASL championship rings, and MLS championship trophies. That and so much more are all at the National Soccer Hall of Fame. In addition to the interactive Museum, the National Soccer Hall of Fame’s 61-acre complex boasts the Kicks Hall of Fame Museum Store, a research library, four world-class soccer fields and office/meeting facilities.