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The organization announced that Washington, Oguchi Onyewu, who honed his skills playing in Olney, Maryland, and lived in DC, has been named the Vice President of Sporting for the for the US Soccer Federation.
In his new role, the international superstar, who played in two World Cups, will work alongside Sporing Director Matt Crocker “in supporting all sporting initiatives within the Federation,” according to officials.
“I am incredibly excited to take on this new challenge and work with Matt and the rest of the US Soccer team to help shape the future of soccer in this country," Onyewu said. I look forward to working with the Men’s and Women’s Senior Teams, Youth National Teams and Extended National Teams to help support and grow our talented pool of players and identify and develop the next generation."
Onyewu will be tasked with managing relationships with clubs and leagues both domestically and internationally to build relationships as the US Men’s National Team continues to show improvement on the big stage with a younger roster that has rapidly been improving.
“As a former player, I understand firsthand the importance of investing in our youth and building a strong foundation for the future,” he continued.
One of his first - and possibly largest - responsibilities will be identifying the next USMNT head coach, after Gregg Berhalter resigned following an investigation into a domestic incident with his wife years ago.
“We are thrilled to welcome Oguchi Onyewu to our team at US Soccer,” Crocker said.
“His experience as a player and sports executive, coupled with his deep understanding of U.S. Soccer, Oguchi will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our sporting initiatives. We all look forward to working closely with him.”
The 40-year-old brings a wealth of experience both on the field and off, earning 69 caps for the US over a 10-year international career. He was also the 2006 US Male Soccer Player of the Year, and a three-time CONCACAF Gold Cup champion.
In the front office, Onyewu is former sporting director and business executive with more than 25 years experience. He previously was on the US Soccer Board of Directors and served on the Athletes Council from 2021 until he took his new position.
He added: “I look forward to working with the Men’s and Women’s Senior Teams, Youth National Teams and Extended National Teams to help support and grow our talented pool of players and identify and develop the next generation."
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