CHICAGO (April 30, 2008) - Gordon Bradley, a former coach of the U.S. National Team and one of the most significant voices in the American soccer community for over a quarter of a century, passed away yesterday in Virginia at the age of 74. Bradley, a native of England,  had been afflicted by Alzheimer's disease.

Bradley's involvement in American soccer ranged from careers as a player, coach and team administrator. His most famous position was as head coach of the high flying New York Cosmos in the 1970s, and he later coached the Washington Diplomats of the NASL.

A former miner from Sunderland, England, Bradley emigrated to the United States where he played in the early days of the NASL. After the league folded, Bradley continued to be a prominent figure in U.S. Soccer, coaching George Mason University from 1985 until 2000. He also served as president of the Washington Stars, a team in the semi-pro American Professional Soccer League, until the formation of MLS in 1996.  

Bradley is survived by Vera, his wife of 49 years, sons Paul and Doug, and five grandchildren.