By Tripp Mickle, Staff Writer, SportsBusiness Journal
AEG Chair PHIL ANSCHUTZ said the future of soccer had never been brighter after he accepted a leadership award given to him at a soccer charity event in Manhattan last night. “The future of soccer over the next 20 years is really extraordinary,” said Anschutz, who once owned and operated six MLS teams. “People are beginning to understand that it’s the fastest growing sport in this country and it's yet to reach its potential.” Anschutz added that his desire to see soccer succeed in this country “has always been what it’s been about." He accepted the award on behalf of everyone in the room, which he said included, "amateurs, professionals, investors, sponsors, beginners, fans, owners, observers and leaders." Patriots and MLS Revolution Owner ROBERT KRAFT introduced Anschutz before handing him the award in front of more than 500 people who attended the $1,250-a-plate black-tie fundraiser at Gotham Hall benefiting Harlem youth soccer. Kraft said, “Phil Anschutz’s leadership has been paragon to the success of Major League Soccer. Every MLS board meeting, when a key decision had to be made, Phil Anschutz was there. He was decisive.”
PELE ALSO HONORED: MLS and the U.S. Soccer Foundation also recognized PELE with a lifetime achievement award. It was the second award of its kind. The first was given to the late LAMAR HUNT. MLS Galaxy MF DAVID BECKHAM presented the award to Pele, saying he was honored and humbled to present the award to the “greatest sportsman of all time.”
