Hank Steinbrecher, a legendary figure in the history and growth of soccer in the United States, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 25 at the age of 77, at his home in Tucson, Arizona. His death marks the end of an era for U.S. Soccer, but his legacy will live on for generations.
From 1990 to 2000, Steinbrecher served as Secretary General of U.S. Soccer, overseeing one of the most transformative decades in the sport’s development in the country. His visionary leadership helped secure the 1994 FIFA World Cup, the most attended in history, and laid the foundation for the launch of Major League Soccer in 1996.
His efforts didn’t stop with the men’s game. Steinbrecher played a leading role in the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup, turning it into a cultural and sporting milestone. That tournament, and the dramatic victory of the U.S. Women’s National Team in front of 90,185 fans at the Rose Bowl, catapulted women’s soccer into the global spotlight.
A builder of foundations
RIP Hank Steinbrecher, former USSF secretary general. Hank was an astute businessman and leader in American soccer. His love of country and the pride he took in what U.S. teams represented was infectious. This is him in the Rose Bowl locker-room in WC 1994 after USA beat… pic.twitter.com/PQXMZOaX9P
— Alexi Lalas (@AlexiLalas) March 25, 2025
Under Steinbrecher, U.S. Soccer’s headquarters moved to Chicago’s historic Kimball House, positioning the Federation for further growth. For his lifetime of contributions, he was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2005.
Nicknamed “Reverend Hank” by the media, Steinbrecher was known for his passion, eloquence, and mentorship. He inspired generations of players, coaches, and administrators, always emphasizing the deeper values of the game: connection, community, and growth.
Remembered by U.S. Soccer leaders
U.S. Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone said:
“Hank’s leadership wasn’t just about strategy or vision. It was about building relationships, inspiring others, and making everyone feel valued.”
Current CEO JT Batson called him a “true champion” of the sport, and former President Sunil Gulati described him as “one of the true giants of the sport” and “a wonderful human being.”
Former CEO Dan Flynn praised Hank’s unmatched passion and dedication:
“His leadership during a critical time for soccer in the U.S. helped lay the foundation for the sport’s growth.”
His influence runs deep
Steinbrecher was a mentor to many, including John Motta, who named the national amateur competition the Steinbrecher Cup in his honor. Other tributes poured in from lifelong contributors to U.S. Soccer like Francisco Marcos, founder of USL, who said:
“He steered the ship through the most turbulent period of American soccer history… One of a kind.”
Hank is survived by his wife Ruth Anne, and his two sons, Chad and Corey.
As American soccer continues to evolve ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on home soil, the sport stands firmly on the foundations that Hank Steinbrecher helped build. His voice, vision, and values remain part of the game’s fabric.
Rest in peace, Reverend Hank.
