Hall of Fame Members
(in alphabetical order)
Ronnie Almond (2001 Hall of Fame)
1935–
Caledonia Soccer Club
Born February 5, 1935 in West Hartlepool, England. At age 15 he joined Caledonia S.C. and played for them for several years. In 1953 he was selected to the Utah All-Star Team which traveled to San Francisco to play against a selection that included six Olympians and beat them. In 1954 Ronnie joined the Vikings SC. During his time he received an invitation to try out for the U.S. Olympic Team for the 1956 Olympics. In 1955 the Utah Soccer Association named Ronnie the Association’s Most Valuable Player. After missing two years for a church mission, he rejoined the Vikings S.C. in 1958 winning several more championships and being selected to the Association’s All-Star Team each year. From 1965-1968 Ronnie missed three more years due to a work mission. Upon his return Ronnie played another four years with the Vikings S.C. and retired in 1972 after a knee injury.
Bill Bosgraaf (2007 Hall of Fame)
1949–
Pan World FC
Born August 2, 1949 in Groningen, Netherlands. After kicking the ball around in the streets for a couple of years, Bill joined the Lycurgus S.V. when he was eight years old and played in their program until he moved to the United States in 1964. He joined the Vikings S.C. for a year, In 1965 he joined Hollandia S.C., followed by two years with S.C. Berlin, during which time he also played at South High School (’66-’68) and was named to the High School State All-Star Team in each year. In 1968 he once again joined up with Hollandia S.C. until 1972 when Bill and his friends formed Pan World F.C. He served as their president from 1973-’90 and their club’s dominance with the men’s team being voted ‘Club of the Decade 1975-1984’ and their women’s team being voted ‘Club of the Decade 1985-1994’ made them the most prolific club in the first one hundred years of the Utah Soccer Association by winning fifteen State Championships between the two teams. Furthermore, he served as commissioner of the Utah High School Soccer Association from 1970-’82 and also attained his State badge as a USSF grade 5 referee in 1982. He retired from officiating in 1991. Bill became president of the Utah Soccer Association in 1986, which position he still retains. Through his work with other State Associations, U.S. Adult Soccer Association (USASA) and the United States Soccer Federation (USSF), Bill has been ambassador for the Utah Soccer Association while serving in a number of capacities for the USASA, amongst which he was the USASA National Select Teams Program Chairman for fifteen years, elected as USASA-Region IV Deputy Director followed by being elected as the Regional Director in 2005 until 2011 when he was elected as the Vice President of the USASA and is currently serving as a member of the USASA Board of Directors since 2002. In 2007 he also became a member of the USASA National Hall of Fame. In addition. he has served on several committees for the USSF, including duties as head of delegation for various US National Teams and being a member of the USSF Board of Directors from 2005-2007 and 2011 to 2014.
Ricardo Castro (1999 Hall of Fame)
1939–
Incas Soccer Club
Born August 23, 1939 in Lima, Peru. Ricardo started playing soccer at the age of six. It was in the streets of Lima where Ricardo developed his skills, using balls made out rags and playing barefooted. During his school years he continued to play and excelled. However, he was not able to play during his high school years as he had to help in supporting the family. Ricardo immigrated to the United States in 1960. He was one of the first members that created the Incas Soccer Club in the early 60’s and part of the team that won their first State Championship a few years later. Ricardo went to work for an American mining company in Peru. He kept active by playing games in the high mountains of Peru. Upon his return in 1973 he played several more years with the Incas S.C. Additionally, while completing his studies, he also played for the University of Utah. In 1983 Ricardo got involved with coaching youth teams which he continued for many years. After he quit playing soccer competitively, Ricardo developed a great love for tennis winning several tournaments.
Karen Chin (2014 Hall of Fame)
1959–
F.C. Utah
Born December 29, 1959 in Stockton, California. Karen began playing soccer in junior high school in San Jose, California. She continued playing through high school at Piedmont Hills High School in San Jose. During high school, Karen was selected to the first team CCS (Central Coast Section of California) in soccer, volleyball, and badminton. After high school graduation, Karen played soccer at a club level in Jose, Santa Barbara and San Diego before moving to Utah in 1991. After playing with a couple of teams in Salt Lake City, she helped form FC Utah, a women’s team that played locally as well as out of state. During a six year span between 1995–2000, FC Utah won five State Championships, five Nikolai Challenge Cup Championships and two Utah Open Cup Championships. The team traveled extensively to tournaments in Arizona, Idaho, Nevada and New Mexico on an annual basis. In addition, Karen also formed the first O-30 women’s team in Utah which was put together to compete in O-30 tournaments outside Utah. During her playing time, she also served on the Board of Directors of the Association as a Vice President overseeing the women’s league and was instrumental in helping to build new teams with interested player who needed a team to play for. Her efforts were exceptional as that league had been in disarray and her organizational skills were instrumental in the revival of the women’s league. In 1998 Karen began coaching youth soccer with the Firebirds SC and then moved to Utah Avalanche where she is currently the youth director, working with coaches and teams in the younger age groups.
Gus Colessides (2010 Hall of Fame)
1948–
Pan World F.C.
Born September 8, 1948 in Kavala, Greece. Like most children in post-war Europe, Gus first played soccer on streets and school grounds. He later played with Phillippi, and at 17 was offered a professional contract with AOK, Kavala’s professional team. Since he was underage, his parents, who were not fans, prevailed upon his older brother Nick, then a student in Salt Lake City, to help him instead pursue a college education. In July, 1966, Gus arrived in the United States. He joined Hellas Soccer Club while studying at Westminster College. After graduating, Gus continued playing soccer in Salt Lake, and also for about a year in Philadelphia with a local Greek squad. He returned to Utah in 1973, and was named to the All Star team and MVP in 1978. In 1976 Gus was selected to play for the Golden Spikers of the American Soccer League. In 1977, Gus joined Pan World Soccer Club, helping the team win several league and cup championships and tournaments. With Pan World, Gus moved from being just a player, to being a player/coach/administrator. At one point, Pan World Soccer Club grew to five men’s and two women’s teams, and hosted an annual tournament with teams from throughout the intermountain area and California. Pan World also motivated several players, Gus among them, to become excellent referees. Transferred to Oklahoma in 1985, Gus continued to play and also to referee youth, adult and collegiate games. In 1989, he became State Referee Administrator for both youth and adult divisions. He was also a State Instructor and a State Assessor. In 1992, he was elected Treasurer for the Oklahoma Soccer Association, representing the state at regional and national meetings. In 1994, Gus was selected as one of the referees to officiate the Donnelly Cup in Florida. He also coached youth, both boys and girls teams, nearly a dozen of his players received partial or full college scholarships. He received his National ‘C’ coach’s license in 1990. Following a 1995 transfer to Houston, TX, Gus continued playing, and focused his refereeing efforts at the collegiate level, receiving national referee certification in 1999. Gus returned to Utah in 2005, and from 2006-2009 served as State Referee Administrator. Gus competes with senior teams at various tournaments, playing for the national over-65 championship team in the 2014 Veteran’s Cup, and also for a team that won an over-65 championship in Tokyo, Japan. He marvels at special moments and extraordinary people that soccer has brought to his life.
John Cunningham (1999 Hall of Fame)
1941–
Incas Soccer Club FC
Born December 9. 1941 in Glasgow, Scotland. As many others, John learned to play the game on the streets and joined Drumchapel of Glasgow as a boy. Being a talented player, John was selected to represent both Glasgow and Scotland at the schoolboy and youth level. He entered the professional ranks with Strathclyde and later moved on to play with Third Lanark F.C., both of Glasgow, Scotland. John immigrated to the United States in 1965 where he first joined A.C. Germania and then was instrumental in forming Sports Club United in 1967, consisting mainly of British players who broke away from A.C. Germania and F.C. Fortuna. In their first year they won the Daynes Challenge Cup. After a brief stint with S.C. Alemannia, John joined the Incas Soccer Club in 1971 where he remained through 1979. He spent the last four years of his playing career with the Vikings S.C., retiring from active play in 1984. Among his achievements in Utah is that he represented the Association in a number of State All-Star Team games, both playing and coaching. He will be remembered as one of the great players to play in the Association. John spent a number of years coaching youth teams after finishing his playing career.
Stanley DeWaal (2000 Hall of Fame)
1935–
Rapid Soccer Club
Born January 10, 1935 in Rotterdam, Netherlands. As a little boy Stan got involved in soccer by playing in the streets and parks of Rotterdam with tennis balls and anything else that was round. That is, if the police were not around. Playing these games with other neighborhood friends made for great memories and probably kept Stan out of trouble. Stan started playing for a club when he became old enough to join, where he became a member of Unicom. Throughout his youth league career he was a member of the club’s first team in each of the age groups where he played scoring many goals as a ‘left inside’ player. When Stan was 17 he immigrated to the United States and did not play soccer again until he was almost 19. He was not aware that there were some pretty good teams around town. Stan joined Hollandia S.C. in 1954 where he played until some friends started a new club, Rapid S.C. in 1955. During the time with Rapid S.C. the club won a State Championship and a Daynes Challenge Cup Championship and the club traveled all over the Western United States playing in various tournaments and friendly matches. Stan went back to Hollandia S.C. in 1965 and played until a knee injury ended his soccer career at the age of 39. Stan’s personal accomplishments include several appearances with the Association’s State All-Star Team and receiving the sportsmanship trophy. After completing his playing career at the age of 39, Stan was actively involved with coaching U-16 and U-17 teams in the Salt Lake area.
Fred Doesburg (2007 Hall of Fame)
1934–1976
Hollandia Soccer Club
Born September 10, 1934 in Rotterdam, Netherlands. Fred was a natural talent and while still living in Holland, at the age of 17 he was selected to the Dutch National Youth team. When he turned 19 he joined FC Excelsior, which at the time was a top club within the country. He played there for three and half years. Fred immigrated to the United States in 1957 where he joined Hollandia S.C. He moved to A.C. Alemannia in 1960 where he played with many other players who are now part of the Utah Soccer Hall of Fame. A.C. Alemannia was the best team of the during 1960’s and during his stay from 1961-64 they won the Daynes Challenge Cup & State Championships in each year. In 1964 he went back to Hollandia S.C. where the club added another State Championship in 1965. In 1967 Fred, along with some of his friends joined Incas S.C., where the club won State Championships in 1967 and 1969. Fred made his last move in 1969 when Sports Club United was formed and he was able to add two more State Championships to his resume in 1970 & 1971. His presence on the field was immense during his entire playing career, known for having a cannon for a shot, but mostly for being skillful and a gentleman. A perennial All-Star Team player throughout his playing career, Fred was a player who, without doubt, will be on the Association’s all-time All-Star team when that selection is made.
Chris Dorich (2009 Hall of Fame)
1947–2018
SS Lazio
Born April 4, 1947 in Erie, Pennsylvania. Taking up the game as a young teenager, Chris played club soccer in Erie, Pennsylvania for his Junior High and High School teams. He then played NCAA Division II from 1969-1974. From 1969-71 he played at Edinboro State College, PA where they won their Conference Championship in 1971. Transferring to Gannon University, he played there from 1972-1974 along with the Erie Soccer Club during the summer time. Chris became a member of the WPSYSA 1977-1982. Started youth, junior high, and high school soccer in Ligonier, PA. After graduating from college, Chris was hired by the Ligonier Valley Recreation Board to start youth soccer. This was completed successfully and the league entered the WPSYSA. After completion of that task, the Ligonier Valley School District hired Chris to start high school soccer. Chris started his Utah Soccer Association career in the USASA 1985-1986 as women’s State Select Team Coach. Since 1987 to present he serves as the State Director of Coaching as well as being the Men’s State Select Team Coach for the Association. During this period 29 Utah players have been selected to the Regional Select Team player pool, of which 12 players have been selected to the USASA Regional Select Team, including 4 players who have been selected to the US National Select Team. From 1999 until 2013 when the program was discontinued, he was also appointed the USASA Men’s Regional Head Coach winning the US Soccer Festival Championship in 2000, 2001, and 2004 during the ten years that this program existed. During his tenure and leadership, 30 players from the Regional Select Teams were selected to the US National Select Team and 15 of these players were been drafted by the Major Soccer League. Furthermore, he served at the national level as an USASA National Staff Coach overseeing USASA Select Team Training Camps throughout the west coast. In 1999 and 2012 he was named the USASA Region IV Coach of the Year and in 2012 he also was honored by being named USASA Coach of the Year. In a long industrious career since 1984 and to the present, Chris also serves as the Head Coach at Westminster College and his program has consistently competed in the NAIA regional championships as well as winning several conference championships. To supplement his spare free time he also launched the S.S. Lazio club into the Utah Soccer Association which between 2008 & 2013 have won five State Championships as well as four Daynes Challenge Cup Championships and are the newly established Super Cup winners in 2010-13. The club has established notoriety not only on the west coast, but nationally as well, annually being a strong competitor in the USASA National Amateur Cup championships having been Regional Champions in 2008 & 2013, finalists in 2007, 2011/12/14 in addition to competing at the USASA National Finals in 2008, 2011 & 2013. Chris also joined the USSF referee forces, officiating in the semi-pro Keystone Soccer League, Pittsburgh, PA from 1977-1981. He then added refereeing in the MISL (Major Indoor Soccer League) as a referee for three years (1978-81), under Joe Machnick, Chief Referee and Operations Manager. In his administrative soccer life from 1988 to the present, he serves as the Executive Vice President of the Utah Soccer Association.
Klaas Elting (2009 Hall of Fame)
1916–1987
Hollandia S.C.
Born April 18, 1916 in Zuidhorn, Groningen, Netherlands. Klaas as a young man played soccer with his friends for G.V. Groen Geel until the start of WW II and thereafter. However he went back to the fields again in the early 1950’s to play for his company team. In 1957 Klaas and his family moved to the United States and settled in the Salt Lake valley. Once in Salt Lake City he became very involved in the beginning of the youth soccer movement during the latter part of the 50’s and into the 60’s. Since he worked for the State of Utah he was able to lobby the need for kids to be off the streets and having them involved in youth soccer programs. As president of Hollandia S.C. he organized youth tournaments at Riverside Park and with live bands. At the same time Hollandia S.C. men’s team were able to win the State Championship twice (1960 & 1965). During this same time frame he was in charge of organizing a charter flight to the Netherlands, taking the Hollandia S.C. team, where they played several games against tough Dutch competition. As there were many Dutch people who immigrated during the 50’s & 60’s, Klaas and Hollandia S.C. made a tradition of monthly parties at a local recreational center where not only the Dutch but also many other nationalities attended these events, particularly those who were involved with other soccer clubs. This gave the club an opportunity to raise funds for their teams. During a time when soccer was not as known to many people, Klaas stood out as a creative leader looking out for the welfare of not only his club, but also the development of the game here in Utah.
Martin Elting (2001 Hall of Fame)
1941–
Pan World FC
Born July 11, 1942 in Groningen, Netherlands. At age 8 Marty joined the junior program of the local professional team GVAV (now (FC Groningen). In 1953 his family moved to Amsterdam where he joined Verspucci’s junior program. Having been noticed as a player with a lot of potential, in 1956 he was asked to join Ajax of Amsterdam and their junior team program. In 1957 his family immigrated to the United States and upon his arrival in Salt Lake City he signed up with Salt Lake A.C. Marty spent the next decade playing for several different teams which included: 1961-64 S.C. Alemannia, 1964-66 Hollandia S.C., 1967-1969 Incas S.C., 1969-1972 Sports Club United. During this time frame he was selected to each year’s State All-Star Team and between all of the teams won nine State Championships. In 1973 Marty joined Pan World F.C. where he finished his playing career in 1983. During this time, where he also served as a coach, the club won six State Championships which included a period where the club had a four and a half year period without any league defeats. Marty had several more State All=Star selections until that program was disbandoned in the late 70’s.
Keith Fisher (2004 Hall of Fame)
1942–
Sports Club United
Born April 23, 1942 in Liverpool, England. Keith started playing in 1951 for Maidford Road School in Liverpool and in 1953 joined the Speke Boy’s Club where he was selected to the city’s schoolboys team. In 1959 he played with the Industrial Team in Liverpool that won the Charity Shield Cup. In 1965 Keith and his family moved to the United States where upon arrival, like many before him, joined A.C. Germania. Keith moved to Sports Club United in 1967 where his team won a number of awards including the Daynes Challenge Cup in 1968 and 1969, the State Championship in 1970 and 1971, the 1970 Rocky Mountain Championship. He was selected to the Association’s State All-Star Team between 1967-1975 and won the Association’s Most Valuable Player award in 1971. Keith ended his playing career with S.C. Alemannia from 1974-1978. He also was part of Utah’s first professional soccer team in 1976, the ASL Utah Golden Spikers. Keith had a coaching stint with the club teams from the University of Utah and Westminster College, as well as refereeing in the Association, Youth Association and Collegiate games. He also spent several years coaching youth teams, including the 1991 Sparta United U-16 State Champions.
Garlan Fitzgarrald (2001 Hall of Fame)
1940–
Orem City Soccer Club
Born January 28, 1940 in Mullen, Nebraska. Growing up in Nebraska, Garlan or ‘Fitz’ as he is known to most, was an ‘All Around Athlete’ who excelled in several sports such as basketball, track and boxing. He was exposed to soccer while serving a church mission in England. Upon his return in 1965 he joined the BYU soccer team was part of the team that won the 1970 Daynes Challenge Cup. Garlan joined the Hellas S.C. in 1972 that represented Utah in the U.S. Open Cup for several years which included opponents such as the San Francisco Greek-Americans and the L.A. Maccabees, perennial National Champions. He started the Orem City Soccer Club in 1973 and was an active member through 2009. In addition to his very long playing career, Garlan is also responsible for starting the high school program throughout Utah County. In 1971 he started the soccer program at Provo High School and shortly thereafter moved to Orem High School where he created a dynasty winning 15 Region titles and 7 trips to the State Championship game, winning four of them. He retired from high school coaching in 1998. Garlan earned his USSF National ‘A’ license in 1986 doing clinics throughout the western United States and coaching a number of youth teams over several decades. He was also instrumental in starting the youth leagues in Utah County that are now part of the UYSA. In addition, Garlan was heavily involved in officiating and refereed hundreds of games over the last 25 years, from youth to the college level.
Helmuth Fluehe (2001 Hall of Fame)
1912–1999
A.C. Germania
Born February 19, 1912 in Einbeck, Germany, Helmuth played soccer as a young boy in school and continued on in the junior leagues as a young man. At the age of 17 (1929) Helmuth immigrated to the United States and came directly to Salt Lake City. One hour after his arrival, Helmuth was playing in his first game for A.C. Germania. He scored the game’s only goal, beating the Caledonia Soccer Club 1:0. Helmuth continued his soccer career playing the following seven years with A.C. Germania. The next four years Helmuth played for the Vikings Soccer Club and the Salt Lake Callies, but then returned to A.C. Germania where he completed his twenty-three-year soccer career in 1952. In his many memories of the game, he recalls playing games against the ‘Benders,’ a team comprised of prisoners from the Utah State Prison located in what is now Sugarhouse Park. The Benders always got home games. He also remembers not having the luxury of grass fields. Games were played on gravel fields or blacktop, causing many injuries.
Bill Forrest (2001 Hall of Fame)
1940–2003
Salt Lake Soccer Club
Born May 27, 1940 in Aberdeen, Scotland. Bill started playing soccer in 1947 for St. Margaret’s Episcopal School and Old Aberdeen Public School. In 1955 he was chosen to the All-City Select Team and North of Scotland Juvenile Select Team. In the Early 1960s he played with a variety of Scottish junior clubs. He moved to the United States in 1964 and joined the BYU Soccer Club. He traveled with S.C. Alemannia to Germany and with Hollandia S.C. to the Netherlands in the late 60s, and during this time was named MVP for the Utah Soccer Association, including being a member of the Association’s All-Star Team for several years. Bill was part of the BYU team that won the 1970 Daynes Challenge Cup. In 1971 and 1972 he also played for S.C. United and Hellas S.C., and started the Murray High School soccer program, which he coached for 30 years. In 1973 the Murray Soccer Club was also founded by Bill, for which he played and coached. In 1982, his active role in bringing the acceptance of soccer in the Utah High School Activities Association had a large impact on the development of the game. He continued to play throughout his life and joined the Salt Lake S.C. in 1985, playing soccer into his 60s.
Stevan Fritzsching (2011 Hall of Fame)
1959–
Alemannia S.C.
Born June 21, 1959 in Werdau, Germany. Stefan and his family immigrated to the United States and Utah in 1961. He began playing soccer when he was seven years old and joined the Alemannia S.C. youth team and played there until he was fourteen, upon which time he moved up to Alemannia’s men’s team as he turned fifteen years of age. During his high school years he also played for Highland High School where they won the 1977 State Championship title. Stefan was their captain and was also voted the MVP of the team as well as being chosen as the MVP of the Utah High School Soccer Association. By this time he played in most of the select/all-star teams in the state and received an opportunity to try out for a youth U.S. National Team in California. By 1980 he became a player/coach and in 1981 he was awarded the MVP trophy by the Utah Soccer Association. Alemannia S.C. won another three State Championships during 1979, 1983 & 1984 as well taking home a Daynes Challenge Cup and Utah Open Cup trophy during that same time frame. Stefan also trained two men’s teams and a women’s team and each of the teams were highly competitive in their respective divisions during his tenure. By 1995 he joined United F.C. and played until he was done playing top division soccer when he was in his forties.
Stan Gill (2000 Hall of Fame)
1926–2015
Caledonia Soccer Club
Born April 20, 1926 in Wolverhampton, England. Stan started playing at the age of 6, and through the ages of 12-15 he played in an organized school league. After leaving school, Stan joined a youth club, playing center half on Saturdays, and on Sundays he played inside left on an Industrial League team. During Stan’s time with the British Army he was invited to try out for Manchester United, but was denied permission by the military. In 1949 Stan and his family immigrated to the United States and joined A.C. Germania. His first game was played at the Utah State Prison, which at the time was located in Sugarhouse. In 1950, with the help of others, he started the Caledonia Soccer Club and played there, with a brief interruption by the U.S. Air Force, until the club was disbanded in 1954. Stan spent one year with A.C. Germania, and then joined the Vikings S.C. in 1955, where he remained until 1969 when he retired from playing at the age of 43. Stan’s individual honors included several selections to the Utah All-Star Team that competed in Colorado, Nevada and California. In 1954 Stan also had an opportunity to try out for the U.S. Olympic Team. Most of all, Stan enjoyed the many years of competition and comradeship.
Ole Richard Gregerson (1997 Hall of Fame)
1931–
Vikings Soccer Club
Born November 5, 1931 in Copenhagen, Denmark. As a boy he joined the Copenhagen Ball Club in 1946. In 1948 he moved to the United States and joined A.C. Germania of Salt Lake City, where he played until 1953. From 1953 to 1957 Dick played with the Viking A.C. in Chicago, Illinois, then returned to Salt Lake City and played for the Vikings Soccer Club until 1987, with an interruption of two years (1961-62) when he played in Washington. Richard was named and played on a number of All-Star teams while playing in both Illinois and Utah.
Gunnar Hansen (2008 Hall of Fame)
1942–
SC Alemannia
Born August 17, 1942 in Copenhagen, Denmark. He was brought up by a single mother during World War II. Soccer became a significant influence in building his character and social skills. At age 8 Gunnar joined the junior program of the Danish A-League team B93. He played on his school team which reached the finals in Copenhagen’s yearly championship competition. He was captain of the team and played forward, center, and defense positions as well as goalie when required. At 19 years of age he was scheduled to join the A-League team B93, but immigrated to the United States instead. He came to Utah in 1961 with his mother after she married a teenage sweetheart and enrolled in the University of Utah. He started playing for the Vikings S.C. but moved to S.C. Alemannia in 1962 where he played with many other players who are now part of the Utah Soccer Hall of Fame. S.C. Alemannia was the best team in the 1960’s and during his stay from 1961-64, 66, 68 they won the State championships and he was part of the nine year run, 1959-1967, of S.C. Alemannia’s dominance of the Daynes Challenge Cup. In 1965 Gunnar traveled to Germany with the club for exhibition matches and also represented Utah in the Intermountain Championships. In 1972 he was awarded the Association’s Most Valuable Player award. After he quit playing soccer, and not having kids of his own, he embraced the sport of Triathlons. Gunnar focused on Ironman competitions (2.4 Mi. Swim, 112 Mi. Bike, 26.2 Mi. Run) and completed 6 Ironman races and qualified to compete in the World Championship in Kona, Hawaii twice. In 1992 he placed 8th in the world in his age group (50-55). Gunnar also became a NSCA Certified Strength and Condition Specialist (CSCS) in 1999 and holds informal training camps in Hawaii where he has lived since 2006. He has a profound gratitude for his soccer friends and the impact the sport of Soccer had in shaping his character. To Gunnar, his sports careers has been a major foundation for living a healthy and balanced life and is honored to be inducted in the Utah Soccer Hall of Fame.
Jan Hansen (2001 Hall of Fame)
1930–
Vikings Soccer Club
Born September 11. 1930 in Bergen, Norway. He started playing soccer at an early age, both on school teams and later on competition youth teams in Norway. He immigrated to the United States in late 1948 and settled in Salt Lake City. In 1949 he joined the Vikings S.C. and was instrumental in rebuilding the club after World War II. Playing for the Vikings S.C. during his entire soccer career in Utah, the club won the State Championship five times, the Daynes Challenge Cup twice, and retired the Van Dongen Cup after winning it five times. During this time Jan was selected to the Association’s All-Star team for many years. He retired from active play in 1975.
Willard Hansen (1997 Hall of Fame)
1926–
Vikings Soccer Club
Born July 21, 1926 in Bergen, Norway. As a boy he played on both recreational and competitive teams in Norway. In 1949 he moved to the United States and joined the Vikings Soccer club of Salt Lake City. He was a playing member for Vikings SC for 38 years and served as President and captain of the club for 26 years. He was nominated and played on many All-Star teams during his 38 year playing career. Additionally, he also served terms as a vice president and publicity manager in the Utah Soccer Association.
Hubert Hendricks (2012 Hall of Fame)
1954–
Pan World F.C.
Born April 25, 1954 in Salt Lake City, UT. Hubert’s parents immigrated to America from the Netherlands and shortly after arriving, Hubert Jr. was born. His father enjoyed the game of soccer and taught his sons everything there was to know about the game. They knocked the ball around in the yard and across the street at Fairmont Park. His Dad, as some may remember ‘Dutch,’ played for the Vikings. As Hubert Jr. grew up, there were not very many youth teams, so he would go to soccer practice with his dad and play ball with the team. In 1964, with the help of his father and others, the Association formed a Youth Division and entered a youth Vikings team. Soon there were 5-6 teams. He played for the Vikings for several years. Soccer began growing at the youth level. As a young man he had many opportunities to grow. He had the opportunity to play with Murray, which was an older team, as Hubert was very competitive. While playing for Murray, in 1967 Hubert had the opportunity to attend the Olympic training camp in San Jose, California. It was a great learning experience. From 1969–1972 Hubert Jr. helped form the soccer team at Granite High School. He played for them until he graduated. While in high school Hubert played soccer for Hollandia SC as well. While playing for Hollandia SC their team won the State Championship in 1972. After Hubert Jr. graduated from High School, he and his fellow teammates formed their new soccer club Pan World FC in 1973. While he played for Pan World they won many State Championship titles, which included a four and half year unbeaten streak in league play during the mid 70’s. During his soccer career, Hubert traveled to many out of state tournaments throughout the west. 1977 Hubert had the opportunity to play semi-Pro for the first professional soccer team for Salt Lake City while they were here, the Pioneers (formerly known as the Salt Lake Golden Spikers). He also received the Association’s MVP award in 1980. During his playing career, Hubert Jr. also started officiating High School Soccer the year after graduating from High School. When Hubert retired from playing the game, he picked up the whistle and started officiating in the same league. When the professional team, ‘Salt Lake Sting’ came to town in the early 90’s, Hubert Jr. officiated many of the games. He also attended many of the games at the Olympic training facility in Colorado Springs in an attempt to move up the ranks as an official. For many years his life revolved around soccer, especially as he raised his 3 sons to love the game. As his sons grew to enjoy the game he became their coach. He also helped coaching his son Bryan during his high school junior year at Hunter High in the late 1990’s.
Leendert Hendricks (2008 Hall of Fame)
1922–1988
Alemannia S.C.
Born December 17, 1922 in Dordrecht, Netherlands. Like most other boys, Leen started playing ‘voetbal’ in the neighborhood streets of Dordrecht. When he was a teenager he joined a local club and it did not take long to see that he had some serious talent for the game and found himself indoctrinated in the AFC Ajax youth system when he was seventeen. Eventually he was sent to a KNVB Second Division team in Rotterdam where he played as a semi-pro since there were no fully professional teams at that time. Shortly thereafter he decided to immigrate his family to the United States in 1953 and settled in Salt Lake City. Upon arrival he joined the Hollandia S.C. in 1954 until 1959 and won the 1954 State Championship in his first year with the team. In 1960 Leen decided that S.C. Alemannia should be his next stop and played for them until 1966, with the team winning the Association’s State Championship from 1961-1964 as well as five consecutive Daynes Challenge Cup trophies from 1961-65. During this time he also served the Vice President of Alemannia S.C. in an administrative role. About that time Leen decided to start officiating and once again he showed his talent by being a great referee, which at that time was not necessarily an easy thing to find. His reputation grew fast and it was not long before the United States Soccer Federation summoned him to officiate National Cup games on a regular annual basis, which included games in Denver, San Francisco, St. Louis and Chicago, just to mention a few. Having traveling referees was not a normal occurrence in those days. To celebrate his achievements and dedication to the development of officiating within the State of Utah, a Lifetime Achievement Award was established in his name for other referees, instructors and assessors who have made an outstanding contribution to the development of soccer officials within the State of Utah.
Henry Ihrig (2004 Hall of Fame)
1937–
Hollandia Soccer Club
Born August 14, 1937 in Mannheim, Germany. Henry started playing soccer when he was eight years old. He Joined TSG Mannheim and played in their youth system until he was seventeen. At that time he became the youngest player to join the first team and played for two years in the German First Division Amateur League. Henry immigrated in 1957 and joined A.C. Germania and became their top scorer during the next two years. In 1959 he moved to Hollandia S.C. where he accumulated many honors including being selected the Captain of the team, State Champions in 1960 and 1965, Named the Association’s MVP twice and was a member of the Association’s All-Star team for several years. In 1967 he joined the S.C. United where he was part of a team that won two Daynes Challenge Cups and two State Championships, as well as the Rocky Mountain championship. Henry hung up his shoes in 1973 and followed many other to coach youth teams.
Henning Jensen (2000 Hall of Fame)
1942–2003
Sports Club Alemannia
Born September 22, 1942 in Odense, Denmark. At the age of five Henning was enrolled by his father into B1909 (Soccer Club). He played and trained as a goal keeper for the next eight years until his family immigrated to the United States in 1955. Upon arrival in the Utah, he started playing for SC Alemannia. Additionally he also played for West High School where he was the player/coach for three years (1958-1961). He starred as a striker and was known for his prowess around the goal. After graduating from High School, Henning joined AC Germania where he was awarded player of the ear. In 1966 he was recruited as a goalkeeper by Hollandia SC and accompanied the club on their tour to the Netherlands. In 1968 Henning join AC Alemannia for the next six years, winning several Daynes Challenge Cup Championships, touring with the club to Germany and Austria and also representing the Association in several All-Star games. Henning completed his playing days as goalkeeper for the Viking SC until 1976. After that Henning began his new career of coaching which he did with the Vikings SC. During this time the club won several League and Cup Championships. In 1983 Henning took his coaching experience to the Utah Youth Soccer Association where during that time he coached a number of different age groups winning five State Championships. Henning also served as the Association’s Secretary for two years in the late 70’s. He also refereed for several years in the Association and Utah High School Soccer Association. In 1990, Henning retired from his active involvement in soccer.
Victor Johansen (1998 Hall of Fame)
1900–1991
Vikings Soccer Club
Born June 25, 1900 in Drammen, Norway. Victor started playing soccer at the age of nine. In 1914, at age 14, he served on year in the Norwegian Merchant Marines during World War 1. He immigrated from Norway to the United Sates in 1917 and enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps as a physical instructor. Shortly thereafter he became involved as a soccer player with Norwegian-American Athletic Club. He founded the Vikings Soccer Club in 1922 and played diligently for 28 years and served as their captain. The Vikings Soccer Club is the oldest existing club in the State of Utah celebrating their 90th anniversary in 2012. Victor also served as President of the Utah Soccer League during the 1930’s. he was part of the Vikings team that won the coveted Daynes Challenge Cup in 1932-34. His playing career ended in 1955 after he developed knee problems. Victors will be regarded as one of the true Utah Soccer Pioneers.
Olof Johansson (1999 Hall of Fame)
1939–
Vikings Soccer Club
Born August 11, 1939 in Stockholm, Sweden. As a boy Olof grew up playing both soccer and ice hockey. Due to his size, soccer won out. A highlight of his childhood was accompanying his dad to the International match between Sweden vs. Switzerland and watching his soccer hero, Gunnar Gren. Olof and his family immigrated to the United States in 1949. He remembers going out to watch his father play for the Vikings Soccer Club. Playing soccer occupied much of his time in Junior High and High School. He joined the Rollo Soccer Club from the Association’s First Division in 1957. After returning from his LDS mission in Sweden in 1962, he reunited with his friends at the Rollo Soccer Club. After spending a couple of year with them, he joined the Vikings Soccer Club in 1964. During this time several Championships were won and Olof continued to play for Vikings Soccer Club until 1985 when he retired from competitive soccer. Since his retirement in 1985 he has continued his love for the game by successfully coaching youth soccer teams in both the UYSA and AYSO organizations.
Clarence Linnett (1998 Hall of Fame)
1919–2005
Caledonia Soccer Club
Born November 5, 1919 in Coventry, England. Clarry played soccer in school, college, company and recreational teams until he immigrated to the United States in 1949. He joined the Caledonia Soccer Club upon his arrival in Salt Lake City, which was part of the then Salt Lake Recreational League. Clarry, along with others, was instrumental in the restructuring of the Utah Soccer Association as we know it today. Starting in 1952 he served as secretary in a number of administrations. Clarry served a President of the Utah Soccer Association from 1974-1976, after which he retired from his administrative duties.
Bill Mead (1999 Hall of Fame)
1913–2007
Caledonia Soccer Club
Born January 19, 1913 in London England. Like other lads, the streets of London were Bill’s soccer-playing grounds. His first chance to learn and play was at school where the fields were concrete. He started playing competitively for the Baptist Church team in London where his soccer skills were advanced, although he determined that he would never be a Bobby Moore. World War II put an end to playing soccer and when Bill immigrated to the United States in 1950 he joined the Caledonia Soccer Club. Realizing that his playing days were over, he did not play very long and became a referee which he continued until the early 70’s. In 1958 Bill became president of the Utah Soccer Association. A position he held for thirteen years. During his tenure his accomplishments were many and paved the way for what the Association is today. Back in 1958 the Association was small with less than ten teams. Among his accomplishments was the establishment of a league. Large enough to have two divisions and expansion from a field at Fairmont Park to three more fields at Riverside Park. He was also instrumental in changing the makeup of the Association from being almost exclusively Western European with the introduction of the Latin-American and Greek teams. It was also during this time that the Association established relationships with teams and Associations in other states. Furthermore, it was at this time that the Association also became an active member of the United States Soccer Federation.
Hermann Neumann (1997 Hall of Fame)
1902–1974
A.C. Germania
Born December 15, 1902 in Berlin, Prussia (Germany). As a boy Hermann grew up playing soccer in Germany. He immigrated to the United Sates in 1929. He joined a newly formed team. A.C. Germania, where Hermann continued to play for the next 40 years. He served as the club’s President for most of those years. In the mid 1950’s Hermann and Arthur Zander were the founders of the Utah High School Soccer Association. It was a great thrill for him when West High School, which included his son Dennis, won the 1965 State Championship under his direction. In 1969 Hermann was honored by the Deseret News when they named him ‘Mr. Soccer’ for all his efforts to develop soccer within the State of Utah. He was relentless in the promotion of soccer. Especially when it concerned the youth. Every year the Utah Soccer Association continues to honor Hermann with the playing of the Neumann Challenge Cup.
Geir Olsen (2014 Hall of Fame)
1953–
Pan World F.C.
Born October 23, 1953 in Oslo, Norway. Geir started to play at the local sports club Lambertseter LIF at the age of seven, and has been passionate about the game ever since. At the age of thirteen, he was selected to play for the Oslo area school boys’ team. In 1968 he and his family immigrated to the United States and moved to the Salt Lake valley. He played with the Wasatch Soccer Club in the Utah Soccer Association 2nd division as a sixteen year old, and a year later joined Hollandia S.C. along with a number of his friends. It took another year before the team won the state championship 1972. However all the young players wanted more and in 1973 formed Pan World Soccer Club. The team went on to win five straight State championships in the club’s first six years, going undefeated in league play for over four and a half straight years. They were considered one of the best teams in the western side of the United States. In 1987 he formed West Jordan Soccer League’s first competitive youth team, the U-12 Hotspurs, where he served as coach and later as league president. He later went on to coach America SC and International SC youth teams to several State Cup championships. In addition he spent a number of years coaching UYSA State ODP teams. In 1999 he joined the Association’s Board of Directors as Men’s Division Vice President, a position he still holds. Since 2000, he has been spent almost a decade as the USASA Region IV Select Program commissioner, where he had the privilege of seeing many of the players who later joined the professional ranks, including a number that made it to MLS. In 2012 he was inducted into the USASA Region IV Hall of Fame.
Bjorn Opsahl (1997 Hall of Fame)
1927–1981
Vikings Soccer Club
Born September 1, 1927 in Oslo Norway. As a boy, Bjorn was involved in many sports such as skiing and bandy during the winter and soccer and swimming during the summer. Bjorn immigrated to the United States in 1952 and resided in Duluth MN. In 1954 Bjorn and his family moved to Salt Lake City where he joined the Vikings Soccer Club, where he played until 1968. Bjorn became a referee in 1966 which he continued through 1978. He served as Vice President for the Utah Soccer Association in 1974-1976 and was elected President of the Utah Soccer Association in 1976. A position he held until 1980. Some significant accomplishments during his tenure are the development of a more organized soccer organization, the development of women’s soccer and the start of the Utah Open Cup Competition. Every year the Utah Soccer Association continues to honor Bjorn with the playing of the Opsahl Challenge Cup.
Stein Opsahl (2013 Hall of Fame)
1959–
Alemannia S.C.
Born November 3, 1959 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Stein took to the fields joining S.C. Alemannia in 1970 and played with their youth team through 1973. Attending Highland High School they won the State Championship in 1977 & 1978. After graduating from high school, he rejoined S.C. Alemannia through 1984 where they won the State Championships in 1979, 1983 & 1984. Not afraid of moving to different teams he won an additional eight State Championships, seven Daynes Challenge Cups and six Utah Open Cups while playing for United S.C., Academia S.C., Flamingo S.C., Dundee United S.C., International S.C. and Utah Mix S.C. from 1985 through 2004. As a goalkeeper Stein was outstanding, and he received the Association’s MVP award in 1979. This was followed up with try-outs with the Seattle Sounders and Portland Timbers during 1980-1982 and a number of try-outs at the U.S. Olympic Training facilities in Colorado Springs, CO and Hayward, CA during 1985-1994. Stein also was a member of the Utah State Select Team in most years from 1980-2002. He played for a short spell with the Utah Blitzz and with the Utah Sting in 1990/91. In recent years he has enjoyed playing in tournaments throughout the west coast, lending his talents with over-age teams in the Over-30, 40 & 50 Divisions.
Guenter Scherwinski (2000 Hall of Fame)
1938–
Sports Club Alemannia
Born February 23, 1939 in Elbing, Germany (East Prussia). Guenter was better known as ‘Piccolo’ by nearly all friends and foes on the soccer field. Shortly after the War Guenter’s family fled to the western part of Germany and settled into the town of Langen, just south of Frankfurt that was controlled by the Americans. There he and the neighborhood boys started playing soccer with anything that resembled a ball. Guenter always played goalkeeper. He was small and had quick reflexes and played that position even when he advanced to the town’s youth soccer team. In 1953 his family immigrated to the United States and settled in Salt Lake City. He joined SC Alemannia in 1954. During this time (1954-1957) he attended South high School and was part of the first teams (included East and West High School) that started High School soccer in Utah. Since AC Alemannia already had a goalkeeper and the team was in need of a left winger, Guenter’s natural abilities came to light very quickly. Known for a deadly shot to the near goalpost it never failed him in all the years of play. Guenter was part of the AC Alemannia team that dominated the Association from the late 50’s throughout the 60’s. AC Alemannia won six State Championships and a record setting nine straight Daynes Challenge Cup Championships during this time. The club also traveled to Germany on several occasions for exhibition matches and represented Utah in the Intermountain Championships man times.
Robyn Smith-Bretzing (2007 Hall of Fame)
1969–
Pan World FC
Born August 2, 1969 in Wheatridge, Colorado. Robyn grew up in Arvada, Colorado and started to play competition soccer in the local league. During her senior year at Arvada West High School, Robyn was inducted in the Athletic Hall of Fame and was also inducted in to the Colorado High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 1987. Upon arrival in Utah she was selected to the Utah U-18 ODP Team and the USYSA Regional Team. Robyn enrolled at BYU in 1987 and played with them until 1993. During the same time she joined the Association’s Pan World FC from 1989-1996, in a period where the team won five State Championships along with two Nikolai Cup championships. Additionally, she was selected to the State Select Team in 1989-95 and was selected to not only the USASA Region IV Select Team, but was also selected to the USASA National Amateur Team during those same years, highlighted by a selection to the U.S. Women’s National Team in 1991. She was selected as the Association’s MVP in 1990-93 and 1996. Robyn decided early to start a coaching career and served as an assistant coach at BYU from 1993-96. After turning in her shoes at the Select Team level, she coached the Association’s Women’s State Select Team from 1996-99 and in 1999 she led the Women’s State Select Team to a USASA National Championship for State Select Teams. From there Robyn turned her energies into forming the Celtic Storm SC in Utah County where she has served as president and is currently coaching and sits on the club’s Executive Board. Her involvement with youth soccer led to serving as a Regional Staff Coach, being named the 2003 UYSA Coach of the Year, 2004 Adidas Region IV Coach of Year, 2006 Region IV Fair Play Award and other awards and recognition. In 1996 she also started to coach at Timpanogos High School and continues to teach Physical Education.
Harold Turville (2007 Hall of Fame)
1888–1942
Salt Lake AFC
Born May 7, 1888 in Nottingham, England. ‘H.O.’ as he was fondly known by hundreds of friends and the sporting world, was born to soccer, playing with Hyson Green Olympics Club in his native England. He coupled this with the speed that won him championships in athletics by running the 100 yard dash in 10 second twice. After immigrating to the United States in 1913 he continued to be active and took his semi-pro soccer career to Utah where he, as an outside left, captained the Salt Lake AFC to three State Championships along with other championships. He was named to the State All-Star team in each of his active years. During his years in Utah, ‘H.O.’ organized the Salt Lake Junior High School League and coached the Jackson Junior High team to eight championships in nine years. He is the only person west of New York that was honored with a medal from the then ‘United States Football Association’ (USSF) and selected to the National Championship All-Star team in 1928-29. Off the field, he served for twelve years as Secretary of the then ‘Utah Soccer Union’ and wrote soccer news for the old Salt Lake Telegram. Additionally he headed up the referees. His job transferred him to Portland, Oregon in 1934. He was a true pioneer in the development of soccer within our State.
Ben Vandenhazel (2007 Hall of Fame)
1941–
Sparta United Soccer Club
Born September May 7, 1941 in The Hague, Netherlands. Like most other immigrants Ben started playing soccer at an early age with older boys on the streets. He joined the Stichtse Boys soccer club in 1952 until he immigrated to the United States in 1957 where upon his arrival in Salt Lake City joined Rapids SC. After their abandonment in 1962, Ben played for SC Berlin and finished his playing career with the Pioneers SC in 1969. Ben’s contribution to the game had only begun as his coaching career took off shortly thereafter with neighborhood teams ‘Canossa’ and ‘The Eagles.’ In 1981 he formed the Sparta United SC which has grown to become the flagship youth soccer club in Utah, winner of many State Championships in different age groups, including winning the U-19 Super Group at the prestious Surf Cup. Sparta United SC has represented Utah well in high level tournaments throughout the nation. In additional Sparta United SC has continually had teams play in the Utah Soccer Association. Ben’s visions, leadership and love for the game has made him a true pioneer of the development of the game within Utah.
Heinz Vosgerau (2001 Hall of Fame)
1931–2019
Vikings Soccer Club
Born January 11, 1931 in Kiel, Germany. As most kids living in Europe, Heinz stated kicking the ball in the streets at an early age. At age 15 Heinz started playing competition soccer for Sud Kiel. In 1950 he joined the Kieler Sports Club, playing for them until he immigrated to the United States in 1953. Arriving in Salt Lake City he joined Caledonia SC, which won the Daynes Challenge Cup that year. Heinz received the ‘Sportsmanship’ trophy that year. In 1955 he joined the Vikings SC where the team won several State Championships, Daynes Challenge Cups and Van Dongen Cups over the next few years. In 1965 Heinz was invited to be the goalkeeper for SC Alemannia on the European tour and also won the Association’s ‘Most Valuable Player’ award. After spending two years playing for AC Germania and another two years with the Salt Lake Kickers SC, Heinz returned to the Vikings SC in 1969 where he continued to play until his retirement in 1982. Additionally Heinz was selected to the Associations All-Stars team continuously during the 1950’s and 60’s.
Halvar Wallin (1998 Hall of Fame)
1917–2010
Vikings Soccer Club
Born September 23, 1917 in Brandstorp, Sweden. Halvar started playing at a very early age where it soon became apparent that he was a very talented player, playing for his hometown team IFK. He played with their men’s first team at the age of 16. Since there was no ‘professional’ league in Sweden in the late 1930’s he had the opportunity to play for several clubs which included I K Tord (1938-44) in the Second Division and Jonkoping Sodra IF (1945-49) of the Swedish First Division. In 1960 Halvar and his family immigrated to the United States. Upon his arrival he joined the Vikings Soccer Club in Salt Lake City, where he played until he retired from the game, except for a two-year period in the 1960’s when he was a player/coach for the Hollandia Soccer Club. Halvar received the ‘Utah Sportsman of the Year’ award in 1975 for his lifelong dedication and sportsmanship to the game of soccer.
Rune Wallin (1998 Hall of Fame)
1926–2019
Vikings Soccer Club
Born September, 1926 in Stockholm, Sweden. Rune as a boy was quite active in many sports such as soccer, track and field, swimming, skiing and ice hockey and played in Sweden with the Telegraph Company’s Soccer Team. Rune and his family immigrated to the United States in 1949. He played a year with a team consisting mostly of Swedish players and thereafter joined the Vikings Soccer Club. Except for a two-year stint in the U.S. Army and playing for A.C. Germania for a year after his return from service, he spent his entire career with Vikings Soccer Club. He served as their President from 1955-57 and ended his playing career in 1971. After his playing career he became a referee and remained active on an emeritus basis for many years thereafter. Additionally, Rune served on the Utah Soccer Association’s Board of Directors as the State Registrar for several years.
Arthur Welsh (2000 Hall of Fame)
1935–2017
Sports Club United
Born September 25, 1935 in Wishaw, Scotland. Arthur, better known in soccer circles as ‘Scottie’, started playing in the streets and on ash fields of his hometown. He played for his school team. Arthur played as a semi-pro with Fauldhouse United. After a stint in the British Army, he returned to his club and moved up to the professional ranks with the Hamilton F.C. In 1960, Arthur and his wife, Ann, immigrated to the United States. He joined the Ogden Soccer Club. In 1961-62 Arthur led his team to the Division II Championship and the Hermann Neumann Cup. In 1965 he transferred to Hollandia SC and while playing there in 1966 the club toured the Netherlands to play 6 exhibition matches. In 1968 Arthur transferred to SC United until 1974. During this time with SC United the club was highly successful claiming two State Championships and two Daynes Challenge Cups. On a personal level Arthur’s achievements included playing for the Association’s All-Star team eight times competing against teams from Colorado, Nevada and California, in addition to several foreign team that visited Utah. He is proud of the fact that in his entire playing career he was never ejected from a game. In1974 Arthur retired from active play and spent a number of year coaches his son’s AYSO team.
Ed Weymann (1999 Hall of Fame)
1933–2016
Sports Club Alemannia
Born May 11, 1933 in Landsberg, Germany. As many kids, Ed started playing soccer on the school grounds developing his skills. Shortly after World War II, while Ed was living in Berlin, he was called for tryouts to play for the City team. At one of the tryout sessions the German National Team Coach, Sepp Herberger was in charge and unfortunately Ed’s dream to play for him did not come to fruition. In 1950 he immigrated to the United Sates and Salt Lake City. He joined A.C. Germania upon his arrival. During his three-year stay they won the Daynes Cup Championship in 1952. One of the greatest highlights in those years was a 1:0 victory in San Francisco against their League Champion Teutonia. In 1953 he and several other Germania AC players were instrumental in forming a new club named Sports Club Alemannia. In 1959 S.C. Alemannia began their dominance of the Utah Soccer Association by winning seven State Championships during the 1960’s. S.C. Alemannia also won two Intermountain Championships during this period. Ed was an intricate part of the phenomenal successful team. In 1973 Ed retired from playing but spent several years managing the team. Additionally, Ed was also very involved in the Association’s Junior Soccer Program that was started in 1966, where his son Brian played. To Ed, his soccer career was the most exciting and most wonderful years in his life.
Hugh Wigham (1997 Hall of Fame)
1926–2005
Bountiful Wanderers
Born October 2, 1926 in Havenfort West, Wales. As a boy he travelled throughout the world while his father was in the British Grenadier Guard, he was a member of the All Army Soccer Team. He moved to the United States in 1963 where he started playing in the Utah Soccer Association in 1964. In 1966 he was the founder of the soccer program at Bountiful High School and started the first youth team in Davis County as well as being the founding father of the South Davis Soccer Association in 1969. His contributions serving the game were numerous and over years his active role within the Association was felt which included serving as President of the Utah Soccer Association from 1980-1986.
Arthur Zander (1997 Hall of Fame)
1907–1989
Sports Club Berlin
Born April 8, 1907 in Hamburg, Germany. Arthur started playing soccer when he was 6 years old and played in Germany until he was 45. He immigrated to the United States in 1952 and in the mid 1950’s Arthur and Hermann Neumann became the founders of the Utah High School Soccer Association. In 1956 Arthur was awarded the ‘Silver Pin’ from the German Soccer Federation for his work with youth in the United States. Arthur was instrumental in the start of the Soccer Club Alemannia and served as its President for 6 years. Thereafter he organized Sports Club Berlin where he served as President for many years. To the many players that have passed through Arthur’s life, he will always be remembered for having his soccer store in the basement of his house. For those who were not so fortunate, he would always find a way to put a pair of soccer shoes on your feet. His generosity was well-known by all. Every year the Utah Soccer Association continues to honor Arthur with the playing of the Zander Challenge Cup.