Anschutz Presented with National Soccer Medal of Honor

ONEONTA, NY (August 27, 2006) – Philip Anschutz was presented with the National Soccer Medal of Honor this evening during the President's Dinner at the National Soccer Hall of Fame in Oneonta, NY. The National Soccer Medal of Honor is a rare distinction awarded by the Hall of Fame to those who have changed the course of the sport in America. In honoring Anschutz, a visionary leader of Major League Soccer, MLS Commissioner Don Garber stated:

"It's not just the stadiums, the teams, and the unprecedented financial support. It is his ongoing and relentless commitment to the heart and soul of this game... "

"...Phil's role has been the defining role, the transformative and singular contribution that has given the sport new purpose, credibility and permanence."

"Millions of soccer fans across the country will never have the chance to meet Phil Anschutz. They'll never see him on television or find him quoted in the newspaper. But each and every one of us will in some form or fashion be touched by his massive contributions to the game. And that is a legacy worthy of this rare and prestigious award."

In accepting the honor Anschutz remarked wryly that "...when I received the call from the Hall of Fame, I was excited that someone had finally thought enough of my playing ability to recognize me, because my teams certainly had not!"

Further Anschutz noted, "...that it is a great privilege to be involved in the game. I want to thank the Hall of Fame for this great honor."

On Monday Anschutz, along with Alexi Lalas, Carla Overbeck, and Al Trost, will be inducted into the Hall of Fame in ceremonies to begin at 10 AM.

The National Soccer Hall of Fame located in Oneonta, N.Y., celebrates the history, honors the heroes and preserves the legacy of soccer in the United States. For more information, log on to soccerhall.org.