Celebrating Father-Son Duos in U.S. Men’s Soccer History
In honor of Father’s Day, we explore the impactful legacies of father-son pairs who have shaped the U.S. men’s national soccer team. From players to coaches, these duos have left an indelible mark on the sport.
Celebrating Father-Son Duos in U.S. Men’s Soccer History
As Father’s Day approaches, we take a moment to honor the remarkable father-son duos that have shaped the U.S. men’s national soccer team (USMNT). While their names may not echo through the halls of sports history like Griffey or Manning, these pairs have left an indelible mark on American soccer since its inception.
Gregg and Sebastian Berhalter
The latest addition to this legacy is the dynamic duo of Gregg and Sebastian Berhalter. Gregg, a veteran of three World Cups—two as a player and one as a manager—has paved the way for his son, Sebastian. The young Berhalter made his competitive debut during the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup against Trinidad & Tobago, echoing his father’s own debut in the same tournament nearly three decades earlier.
Bob and Michael Bradley
While Bob Bradley never donned the USMNT jersey, his impact as a coach during the 2010 World Cup is undeniable. His son, Michael, was a key player in that tournament, helping the team reach the Round of 16. Recently, Michael has stepped into the coaching realm himself, taking the helm at New York Red Bulls II. Could we see the first father-son coaching duo for the USMNT in the future?
James and George Brown
The Brown family holds a special place in USMNT history, with James Brown scoring in the inaugural World Cup in 1930. His son, George, made a single appearance for the national team in 1970 but was instrumental in developing soccer in the U.S. Both are honored members of the National Soccer Hall of Fame.
Phillip and Joe Gyau
The Gyau family boasts a rich soccer lineage, with Phillip representing the USMNT from 1989 to 1991 and his son Joe making appearances for the national team as recently as 2019. Their family legacy even extends to Phillip’s father, Joseph ‘Nana’ Gyau, who played for Ghana in the 1960s.
Harry and Ty Keough
Harry Keough was part of the legendary 1950 World Cup squad that stunned England, while his son Ty had aspirations of Olympic glory in 1980, which were dashed by the U.S. boycott. Ty still made his mark with eight appearances for the national team.
Joe and Alain Maca
Joe Maca, a Belgian native, was also part of the 1950 World Cup squad. His son Alain made five appearances for the USMNT in the 1970s before embarking on a successful career with KLM Airlines.
Claudio and Gio Reyna
The Reyna family is a modern soccer story, with Claudio and Gio both excelling in central midfield. Claudio’s four World Cup appearances set a high bar, but Gio is quickly making his own name, needing just two goals to match his father’s total.
Tim and Taylor Twellman
While Taylor Twellman is the more recognized name, his father Tim also made his mark with a single appearance for the USMNT in 1982. The Twellman legacy continues, with Taylor transitioning from the pitch to the broadcast booth.
As we celebrate these father-son duos, we recognize their contributions to the beautiful game and the bonds that soccer has forged across generations. Happy Father’s Day to all the soccer dads out there!
