DALLAS, Texas - FC Dallas today announced that they would host a North American Soccer League (NASL) reunion game on Sunday, September 18, at 11 a.m. at Pizza Hut Park prior to FC Dallas' 1 p.m. match against Real Salt Lake. The match, which will feature more than 40 former NASL stars from around the world, was the brainchild of Dave Wasser of the NASL Alumni Association, as well as FC Dallas.
The match was created to honor the men who brought the sport of soccer to the United States in the 1960's, 70's and 80's, providing the genesis of world-class professional soccer in this country. The NASL is also widely credited with paving the way for the explosive growth of soccer as a participation sport which occurred in the United States both during and after the league's existence.
"The NASL and its players laid much of the foundation for Major League Soccer," said FC Dallas Interim General Manager John Alper." In Dallas specifically, former NASL players remain prevalent in the soccer community, and have contributed significantly to the growth of the sport in this area. Additionally, Lamar Hunt was intricately involved with the formation of both the NASL and MLS, so for us to host this game at this beautiful new venue is a tremendous honor for our organization."
Among the stars expected to play on Sunday are former Tampa Bay Mutiny Head Coach and former U.S. National Team star Perry Van Der Beck as well as current U.S. Women's National Team Head Coach Greg Ryan, who will lead the American side. Their opponents on the World Team will be led by Brazilian forward and Dallas Sidekicks soccer legend Tatu, as well as fellow Brazilian Renato Cila, whose son Jordan will be playing for Real Salt Lake later in the afternoon.
The American Team will be coached by former Tampa Bay Rowdies coach Gordon Jago who is currently the Executive Director of the Dallas Cup. Former NASL and MLS coach Ron Newman will lead the World Team.
All former NASL players in attendance on Sunday will be honored by FC Dallas in a special presentation immediately prior to kickoff of their match, and many of these players will be available for autographs at halftime of the FC Dallas game.
Fans who already hold tickets for Sunday's MLS match will be able to see this game, as well as the FC Dallas Reserves match that follows the first team match. To purchase tickets to Sunday's games, or any other FC Dallas home game please call 1-888-FCD-GOAL.
