U.S. Soccer Community Mourns the Death of Renowned Hall of Famer and Former President for Wayne Rooney’s Club DC United

Kevin Payne, one of the most respected and renowned individuals in American soccer history has passed away. During his tenure, Payne was the executive of two Major League Soccer clubs. He was in and around the soccer circuit in the U.S. since the beginning.

He started off his tenure in U.S. Soccer as the General Manager of D.C. United. Payne had two spells at the club, the second of which he was appointed the CEO of the soccer club. In 2021, Payne was elected to the National Soccer Hall of Fame.

U.S. Soccer mourns the death of Kevin Payne

Many big soccer entities in America have expressed their sorrow after Payne’s death. Payne was known as a very dedicated individual to the sport. He was fundamental in the building stage of soccer in America.

U.S. Soccer President, Cynthia Clone said, “Kevin worked tirelessly for decades to grow the game in our country and his work has left a lasting impact. His legacy and contributions changed our game at all levels, and he will be remembered fondly as a friend and colleague”.

MLS Commissioner, Don Garber, issued a statement that said, “All of us at Major League Soccer mourn the loss of Kevin Payne, one the League’s most successful club executives”. He continued, “As one of MLS’ first club executives, Kevin played an important role in shaping the competition and commercial structure of the League”.

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Here are a few other reactions to Payne’s death on social media.

What did Kevin Payne do?

Kevin Payne never played professional soccer. After playing semi-pro soccer at the college level, Payne became a radio journalist in New York. He then became the executive for Special Events in Vail, Colo. In 1989, Werner Fricker hired Payne as the National Administrator of U.S. Soccer.

Since that day, Payne has never looked back. Payne helped D.C. United build their regime in American Soccer during his two stints at the club. Together with Payne, D.C. United went on to win two U.S. Open Cups. They also won the MLS league four times.

Payne also spent 18 years as a member of the MLS Board of Governors. In 2015, he was then elected the CEO of Club Soccer in the U.S.

Payne contributed in numerous ways to the sport on and off the field. After his death, all the legend has received is respect and admiration for his contribution to American soccer.

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How do you think Payne’s efforts from all those years ago are helping soccer in America now? Let us know in the comments below.