Legendary coach Manny Schellscheidt has been a pioneer in American soccer for decades, and on Monday he retired from his long-time profession, stepping down as Seton Hall head coach after 24 years.
Schellscheidt spent nearly a quarter century in charge of the Pirates, but he had already established an impressive coaching resume even before that. He was the U.S. men's national team coach in 1975, and was the head coach of the U.S. Olympic team in 1984. During his career, the German-born Schellscheidt also earned the distinction of being the first American soccer coach to earn an A coaching license from U.S. Soccer.
Schellscheidt has remained one of the most respected voices in American soccer coaching, having worked closely with Bruce Arena and Bob Bradley. Prior to coaching, Schellscheidt won a pair of U.S. Open Cup titles with Elizabeth FC, and also played in the North American Soccer League, where he won a championshp with the Philadelphia Atoms.
Maybe that capacity will be in Germany scouting our jugends?
Let him go? The dude is over 70. He’s done his part and earned his retirement.
And who knows, maybe he will still be involved in an advisory or mentoring capacity.
The greatest mind and most influential man in American soccer, period. A mentor to Bruce Arena, Bob Bradley, Glenn Myernick, Dave Sarachan and the list goes on and on.
One question that really puzzles me, how can US Soccer let this man go when he is clearly one of only a handful of people that really gets it in terms of player development?
Don’t believe me, just ask one of the thousands of players and coaches who had the honor of learning from him.
Manny will be missed! He’s a great coach and a really nice guy.
I am privileged to know him. He is always a great gentleman and is a giant among New Jersey soccer greats. There are m any active coaches whose perspectives of the game owe a lot to Manny’s insights.
As great a soccer mind as has ever coached anywhere in the United States.
Congrats to Manny for a long successful career!