STWF Sports | FRISCO, Texas | May 1, 2026 — The sport’s past, present and future converged at Toyota Stadium on Saturday as the National Soccer Hall of Fame officially welcomed its 2026 induction class, honoring six influential figures whose careers helped shape the game in the United States.
Headlined by global icons and domestic trailblazers, the class featured Tobin Heath, Heather O’Reilly, Chris Wondolowski, Tony Sanneh, Kari Seitz and Kevin Crow — a group that collectively spans decades of excellence across international play, Major League Soccer and the global officiating stage.
The ceremony, held at the home of FC Dallas, underscored the continued growth and impact of soccer across the country, celebrating careers defined by achievement, leadership and lasting influence.
Celebrating the Hall of Fame National Soccer Class
Few inductees represent modern U.S. Soccer success more than Heath and O’Reilly, two pillars of the U.S. Women’s National Team during its most dominant era. Heath, known for her creativity and attacking flair, earned 181 international caps, capturing FIFA Women’s World Cup titles in 2015 and 2019 while also securing Olympic gold medals in 2008 and 2012.
O’Reilly’s résumé is equally distinguished. Appearing in 231 international matches, she scored 47 goals and played a central role in multiple World Cup and Olympic campaigns, including a World Cup victory in 2015 and three Olympic gold medals. Her consistency and versatility made her one of the most reliable contributors during a transformative period for women’s soccer.
In Major League Soccer, Wondolowski’s legacy is cemented in the record books. The forward retired as the league’s all-time leading scorer with 171 regular-season goals, surpassing the long-standing mark held by Landon Donovan. Over a 17-year career, Wondolowski’s relentless work ethic and clinical finishing defined one of the most consistent scoring careers in league history.
Sanneh’s induction highlights a career that bridged the international and domestic game. A key member of the U.S. Men’s National Team during the 2002 FIFA World Cup, Sanneh played every match in the tournament, helping the U.S. reach the quarterfinals. Domestically, he was part of D.C. United teams that captured the first two MLS Cup titles, contributing to the foundation of the league’s early success.
Crow’s career reflects a different but equally important era of American soccer. A standout in the Major Indoor Soccer League, he earned multiple All-MISL selections and captured six championships with the San Diego Sockers. His contributions came during a time when indoor soccer carried the professional game in the United States, helping sustain the sport’s presence during a transitional period.
Seitz’s induction represents a landmark achievement in officiating. Over a 30-year career, she became the only referee to officiate at four FIFA World Cups, while also working three Olympic Games. Her impact extends beyond the field, as she has played a key role in advancing opportunities for women in officiating and shaping the future of referee development.
Reflecting on her journey, Seitz emphasized both gratitude and responsibility, noting that the honor represents not only her career but the collective efforts of those who helped elevate officiating in the sport.
The ceremony also recognized veteran journalist Steven Goff as the recipient of the 2026 Colin Jose Media Award, honoring his contributions to soccer coverage, while longtime broadcaster Bob Ley was acknowledged as the 2025 honoree.
Each inductee’s speech echoed a common theme: the game’s growth has been fueled by community, perseverance and a commitment to pushing the sport forward. From pioneering indoor leagues to global dominance on the international stage, the class of 2026 reflects the diverse pathways that have shaped American soccer.
As the ceremony concluded, the message was clear — the National Soccer Hall of Fame is not just a reflection of past achievements, but a celebration of the individuals who continue to influence the game’s future.
With legends from multiple eras now enshrined, the Hall of Fame adds another chapter to its story — one that honors excellence while inspiring the next generation of players, coaches and officials to carry the sport forward.
