Iconic goalkeeper Tim Howard, renowned for his 121 appearances with the U.S. Men’s National Team, was ceremoniously inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in Frisco, Texas, this past Saturday.
During his illustrious tenure from 2002 to 2017, Howard showcased his talents on the global stage, notably participating in the 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cups.
In a heartfelt induction speech, Howard reflected, “The bell rang 121 times for me, and 121 times, I answered the bell for the greatest country in the world. For that, I’m most grateful.”
Joining Howard in this prestigious honor were former U.S. women’s midfielder Tisha Venturini-Hoch, former U.S. National 7-a-side Paralympic Team captain Josh McKinney, and esteemed executive Francisco Marcos.
Now aged 45, Howard’s legacy includes a World Cup record for most saves in a match, an astonishing 16, achieved during the thrilling 2014 encounter against Belgium. His standout performances in consecutive World Cups solidified his reputation as one of the sport’s finest goalkeepers.
Beyond his national team contributions, Howard excelled in club football, notably with the New York/New Jersey MetroStars (1998-2003), Colorado Rapids (2016-2019) in Major League Soccer, and prominent English clubs Manchester United (2003-06) and Everton (2006-16), where he earned goalkeeper of the year honors in 2004.
Venturini-Hoch, aged 51, represented the U.S. women’s team in 134 matches between 1992 and 2000, featuring in two World Cups and contributing significantly to the iconic 1999 Women’s World Cup-winning squad.
Expressing her gratitude, Venturini-Hoch remarked, “I’m grateful for this game, for all the amazing memories it’s given me, but most importantly, for all the amazing people that it’s brought into my life.”
McKinney, born with cerebral palsy impacting his right side, amassed 124 appearances and 81 goals over 19 years, participating in three Paralympics (1996, 2004, 2012) before retiring in 2014.
“As the first Extended National Team player in the National Soccer Hall of Fame, I am forever grateful,” McKinney stated, emphasizing the importance of paving a pathway for future athletes.
Marcos, renowned for his leadership in the United Soccer League, a prominent lower-division level in the U.S., also received well-deserved recognition for his contributions to the sport’s growth and development.
