Tribute to Jill Ellis
Remarks Prepared for Delivery
U.S. Soccer Annual General Meeting
Nashville, Tennessee
Saturday, February 15, 2020

“The Standard of Greatness”

Now, one of our great traditions here at U.S. Soccer—For the Good of the Game.  Before we begin, I want to say a few words about one of the true greats of the game, who I’d ask to join me on stage—the unrivaled Coach Jill Ellis!

At our Board meeting in September, we expressed our admiration and gratitude to Jill with a proclamation.  On behalf of the entire Board, I want to share that proclamation with all of you today.

“WHEREAS, Jill Ellis has devoted 20 years of outstanding service to the Women’s and Girls’ National Team programs at U.S. Soccer, including as Development Director for U.S. Soccer and head coach for numerous women’s Youth National Teams;

WHEREAS, as Head Coach of the United States Women’s National Soccer Team starting on May 16, 2014, Jill led the team to victories in eight tournaments, including the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup, winning all seven games;

WHEREAS, Jill is the first coach in history to win two Women’s World Cup titles, leading the U.S. Women’s National Team to an unprecedented four titles;

WHEREAS, she has coached the most games in the history of the U.S. Women’s National Team, with an overall record of 106 wins, 7 losses and 19 draws—the most wins of any coach in the team’s history—and led her players, coaches and staff with sportsmanship, camaraderie, and skill;

WHEREAS, her commitment, passion and unrivaled achievement has inspired millions of players, coaches and fans in the United States and around the world, raising the profile of the women’s game globally and setting the standard of greatness for future generations;

THEREFORE, WE, the National Board of Directors of the U.S. Soccer Federation, do hereby establish The Jill Ellis Scholarship—U.S. Soccer’s first-ever endowed scholarship to support coaching education with a focus on providing opportunities to women of all walks of life and growing the ranks of women in coaching for many years to come.”

I just want to note that, thanks to many generous donors, in just a few short months the Jill Ellis Scholarship has already raised $215,000 to support women coaches.  And we’re just getting started!  We’re also very grateful that Jill will continue to represent our Federation across our country and around the world as a U.S. Soccer Ambassador.  Please join me in saluting, the incomparable Jill Ellis!