Mason Soccer Icon Passes Away at 74

By Connect Mason Reporter Mike Foss

MANASSAS, Va. - Former George Mason men's soccer coach Gordon Bradley passed on Tuesday at the age of 74. Bradley had an unrivaled career as a player and as a coach.

Bradley was a pivotal presence in the North American Soccer League. The Englishman coached the New York Cosmos in their heyday of the late 1970s, when international superstars Pele and Johan Cruyff played for the club.

After coaching the Cosmos, Bradley transitioned into the college game becoming the head coach of George Mason. In his inaugural season at GMU, Bradley led the Patriots to an 18-4 record and a berth in the NCAA Tournament. Bradley had a .606 winning percentage for George Mason, taking the school to the NCAA tournament another five times.

"I'm deeply saddened by the loss of Gordon," said Richard Broad, who preceded Bradley as the Mason men's soccer coach from 1976-1984. "He was a great man and a tremendous human being. Soccer has lost a hero."

After a lifetime of contribution to soccer in America, Bradley was honored by the US Soccer Federation in 1996, when he was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame.

Jeff Agoos, the sporting director of major league soccer powerhouse Red Bull New York issued the following statement:

• "I was saddened to learn of Gordon's passing, he was a giant in the world of soccer. Professionally we lose an icon in the sport and personally, I lose a dear friend. It's a very sad day for soccer in New York. On behalf of the entire Red Bull New York organization, we extend our condolences to his entire family in this sad time."

Bradley is survived by Vera, his wife of 49 years; sons Paul and Doug; and five grandchildren. Funeral services are pending.