Kevin Payne has to be one of the most important people in American soccer history, know his cause of death, age and career
The storied representative of American soccer passed away on Sunday at the age of 69.
Kevin Payne US Soccer Player Cause Of Death, Obituary, Age, Family, Career Stats, Net Worth 2022
Did my best to put my dad into words. He was a big personality who lived a huge life, so this doesn’t do him justice. #KevinPayne pic.twitter.com/KuuYKJ0mN4
— Rebecca Payne (@RayPayne) December 26, 2022
Payne worked for Toronto FC as an executive and general manager. He was a notable D.C. United player for long 18 years, from 1994 to 2012. Under Payne’s leadership, D.C. United has enjoyed tremendous success, winning two US Open Cups and four MLS championships.
From 1994 through 2001, Kevin Payne served as president and general manager. He assumed control in 2004 and served as CEO and president until 2012. In a statement, D.C. United said, “He will always be remembered as a passionate champion of our club, MLS, our city, and soccer in the United States.”
We are saddened to share the news that our founding president and general manager Kevin Payne has passed away.
He will always be remembered as a dedicated champion of our club, MLS, our community and soccer in the U.S. Our deepest condolences go out to his family. 🖤❤️ pic.twitter.com/qpeogaqKgj
— D.C. United (@dcunited) December 25, 2022
Payne received an honorary election to the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2021 for his assistance in creating the first MLS dynasty with D.C. United. His death in Charleston, South Carolina, was initially covered by The Washington Post. On Christmas Eve in 2022, the 69-year-old soccer royalty passed away from lung disease.
He was married to Pamela Payne and they had two daughters, Ashley and Rebecca Payne with his net worth at $19 million.
More about Kevin Payne.
Growing up, Kevin Payne had the ambition to play soccer. He did participate in some semi-professional and college soccer, but his desire was not realised. He eventually went on to receive recognition for his radio journalism.
Kevin was a key contributor to Major League Soccer’s creation. With Alan Rothenberg’s assistance, he was able to assemble a significant number of investors for his MLS goal. Later, he gathered D.C. United’s investors and sponsors, and together they won 13 major championships.
After more than 1.5 years of service with D.C. United, Payne joined Toronto FC. Toronto was in dire straits even before Payne arrived. When Payne took over as the general manager of a Toronto team that had won only 45 games in six seasons.
Tributes pour in after the legend’s demise
“Kevin leaves a legacy not only of success in business and sports, but he will also be remembered for his strong moral compass, his generosity, and his love for his friends and family,” said Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber.
He continued, “Everyone at MLS and throughout the entire soccer world will be tremendously affected by his passing.” Payne’s hard efforts on behalf of the league earned Payne Don’s respect and his designation as “important in the founding of the league.”
The whole soccer scene in the United States has joined together to grieve the passing of the renowned Kevin Payne. By launching MLS, he transformed club soccer in the United States. Famous soccer players from all around the world have occasionally shed light on the popularity and importance of the league. The achievements Kevin Payne made in American soccer will forever be highlighted in gold.