As Father’s Day approaches, the U.S. men’s national soccer team stands out not just for its achievements on the field but also for its rich history involving father-son duos. These pairs have made lasting contributions to American soccer, both as players and coaches throughout the team’s evolution.
One of the most notable modern father-son duos is Gregg and Sebastian Berhalter. Gregg Berhalter, a participant in three World Cups, has the unique distinction of being both a player and the team’s manager. His journey took him from competing in the 2002 and 2006 World Cups to leading the team in 2022. Recently, his son Sebastian made his competitive debut for the U.S. men’s national team during the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup against Trinidad & Tobago in San Jose, showcasing the family’s continued influence in American soccer.
The legacy continues with Bob and Michael Bradley, a duo that represents a different branch of influence. While Bob didn’t wear the national team colors, as the head coach of the U.S. squad during the 2010 World Cup, he made his mark. His son Michael played a crucial role in the team’s progression to the Round of 16 in South Africa. Now, as Michael steps into coaching with New York Red Bulls II, the possibility of seeing both father and son on the sidelines for the national team looms on the horizon.
Another historical father-son pair, James Brown and George Brown, hold a prominent place in the early days of U.S. soccer. James, who hails from Scotland, was a pioneer who scored during the inaugural World Cup in 1930 in Uruguay. His son George, meanwhile, added to the family legacy with one appearance for the national team in 1970 against Mexico. Both have been recognized for their contributions to the sport with induction into the National Soccer Hall of Fame.
Adding to the generational soccer lineage are Phillip and Joe Gyau. The Gyau family boasts three generations of international players, starting with Phillip’s father, Joseph ‘Nana’ Gyau, who played for Ghana in the 1960s. Phillip donned the U.S. jersey from 1989-91 and later led the U.S. Beach Soccer team. Joe, his son, last played for the national team in 2019 and made a name for himself in various German clubs, including Borussia Dortmund.
The legacy of the Keough family showcases their involvement in both the World Cup and Olympics. Harry Keough was a key member of the famous 1950 World Cup team that shocked England. Following this, he captained the U.S. Olympic teams in 1952 and 1956. His son Ty had a promising Olympic career ahead, but the U.S. boycott of the 1980 Moscow Games halted those ambitions. Nevertheless, Ty represented the national team eight times throughout his career.
The Maca family features another interesting father-son dynamic, as Joe Maca was part of the groundbreaking 1950 World Cup squad. His success in the North American Soccer League earned him a place in the National Hall of Fame. His son Alain took a different path, making five appearances for the U.S. men’s national team between 1973 and 1975 before transitioning to a distinguished career with KLM Airlines, eventually becoming the president of a JFK Airport terminal.
Claudio and Gio Reyna’s relationship demonstrates the continued evolution of soccer in the U.S. Not only do they share a striking resemblance, but their careers also parallel in significant ways. Both started their careers in Germany, primarily in central midfield roles. Claudio has a significant edge with four World Cup appearances to his name, compared to Gio’s growing tally. Gio is just a few goals shy of matching his father’s total, making for an exciting narrative as he continues his career.
Lastly, the Twellman family adds to this rich narrative, with Tim and Taylor Twellman showcasing both the challenges and rewards of playing soccer at a high level. Although Tim had only one cap with the U.S. men’s national team in 1982, his family has a strong soccer heritage; both of his brothers and father played professionally. Taylor, on the other hand, emerged as a prominent figure in both international and club soccer. He has successfully transitioned from player to broadcaster after retiring from the game.
As we reflect on these father-son duos, it becomes evident that their impact on American soccer is indelible. Their stories inspire new generations of players, ensuring that the spirit of the game continues to flourish for years to come.
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