Soccer America Silver XI celebrity nominations

  GK:       Antonio (Tony) Meola
  Comments: Played for the U.S.A. in two consecutive World Cups and became  the first American goalkeeper recognized throughout the soccer world and  public.
  
  Field Players:  
     Rick Davis
  Comments:  Great soccer ambassador
 
  
     Michelle Akers
  Comments: Elevated women's soccer internationally. A true goal  scorer!
  
  
     Mia Hamm
  Comments:  Most exciting and explosive woman player in the world.
  
  
     Marcelo Balboa
  Comments: First U.S. player to reach 100 caps.
  
  
     Pele
  Comments:  Greatest player ever! Need more be said?
  
  
     Alexi Lalas
  Comments:  Maybe not one of the better players the U.S. has produced, but  he's the most recognizable with his red hair and beard.
  
 
     Desmond Armstrong
  Comments:  First African-American to play for the U.S.A. in a World Cup.  Has had positive impact on many kids in the inner cities as well as being  successful with his broadcasting career.
  
  
     Tatu
  Comments:  Best indoor soccer player to play in the U.S.A. ''A legend under  his own roof.''
  
  
     Cobi Jones
  Comments:  Teenage heart throb. Exciting player to watch with his quickness  and speed.
  
  
     Carin Jennings (Gabarra)
  Comments:  First ever Women's World Championship M.V.P. (1991). Her valid  claim of being the best in the world!
  
  Coach:     Bora Milutinovic
  Comments:  Helped put U.S. soccer on the global map. Most successful U.S.  Men's coach ever!

In celebration of our 25th Anniversary, Soccer America honors the 11 players and one coach from the past 25 years who've had the most positive impact on U.S. soccer. They are the Soccer America Silver XI — announced Dec. 14 at the Soccer America FanZone in Richmond, Va.