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TUCSON, Ariz. – Hank Steinbrecher, a key figure in the growth of American soccer and often referred to as the "father of adult soccer" in the U.S., passed away on Tuesday morning, March 25, at his home in Tucson, Arizona. He was 77.
Born on July 11, 1947, in Rockaway, New York, Steinbrecher had a profound impact on the sport as a player, coach, and administrator. He played collegiate soccer at Davis & Elkins College, contributing to their 1970 NAIA national championship team, and later earned a master's degree in education from West Virginia University.
His coaching career also included stints at Warren Wilson College, Appalachian State University, and Boston University. After leaving coaching, he served as the director of sports marketing for Quaker Oats Company before joining the USSF.
Steinbrecher is best known for his tenure as the General Secretary of the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF), during which he played a pivotal role in the development and promotion of soccer in the United States. His contributions were recognized with his induction into the National Soccer Hall of Fame.
Steinbrecher played a pivotal role in revitalizing soccer in the United States during his tenure from 1990 to 2000. He oversaw significant events such as the 1994 FIFA World Cup hosted by the U.S., the 1996 Summer Olympics Soccer Tournament, and the 1999 FIFA Women's World Cup. Under his leadership, the U.S. women's national team secured its first Women's World Cup title in 1991 and an Olympic gold medal in 1996.
Steinbrecher was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2005 and received the Werner Fricker Builder Award in 2012.
Steinbrecher is survived by his wife, Ruth Anne, and sons, Chad and Corey. More details to follow.
Hank Steinbrecher
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