Manfred Schellscheidt, German-American soccer player and coach

Manfred "Manny" Schellscheidt, born on January 17, 1941, stands as a prominent figure in the annals of German-American soccer. Renowned both as a highly successful coach and a skilled former player, Schellscheidt's career has profoundly influenced the development of the sport in the United States over several decades.

Born in Solingen, a historically industrial city located within what was then the Prussian Rhine Province of Germany, Schellscheidt brought a robust European footballing pedigree when he emigrated to the United States in the 1970s. This period marked a crucial time for soccer's growth in America, as leagues like the North American Soccer League (NASL) gained prominence, attracting international talent and establishing the sport on a larger scale.

Playing Career & Achievements

Schellscheidt quickly made his mark on the American soccer scene. As a player, he showcased his talents across various professional leagues:

• He played three seasons in the pioneering North American Soccer League (NASL), featuring for clubs such as the Rochester Lancers (1970-1972), the Syracuse Suns (1973), and the Baltimore Comets (1974). The NASL was instrumental in popularizing soccer in the U.S., featuring global stars and significantly raising the sport's profile.
• He also spent a season in the American Soccer League (ASL) with the New Jersey Americans in 1976, where he transitioned into a player-coach role.

His playing career was decorated with significant silverware:

• Two National Challenge Cup Titles: Schellscheidt was a key part of the Elizabeth S.C. squad that captured the prestigious National Challenge Cup (now known as the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup) in both 1970 and 1972. This historic tournament represents the oldest ongoing national soccer competition in the United States.
• One American Soccer League Title: In 1976, he earned an ASL championship with the New Jersey Americans, contributing as both a player and coach.

Coaching Legacy

While successful as a player, Manfred Schellscheidt's coaching career truly solidified his legendary status in American soccer. His strategic acumen and ability to develop talent led to remarkable achievements at multiple levels:

• Professional Championships: As a coach, Schellscheidt guided teams to two professional championships, including the 1972 American Soccer League title with the New York Apollo and the 1976 ASL title with the New Jersey Americans, where he served as a player-coach.
• Collegiate Success at Seton Hall University: From 1976 to 2019, Schellscheidt served for an incredible 42 seasons as the head coach of the Seton Hall University men's soccer team. During his tenure, he became one of the most respected and successful coaches in collegiate soccer history, amassing over 400 victories. Under his leadership, the Pirates achieved:
  • 15 NCAA Tournament appearances.
  • 30 winning seasons.
  • Multiple Big East Conference regular season and tournament championships.
• National Team Contributions: Schellscheidt also played a pivotal role in developing young American talent at the national level. He served as a coach for both the U.S. Under-17 and Under-20 National Teams, helping to prepare future generations of professional and international players and contributing to the nation's rising profile in global youth competitions.

National Soccer Hall of Fame

In recognition of his immense contributions to American soccer, Manfred "Manny" Schellscheidt was deservingly inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2004. This esteemed honor acknowledges individuals who have made a significant and lasting impact on the sport in the United States, cementing his place among the game's greatest figures.

FAQs about Manny Schellscheidt

When was Manfred "Manny" Schellscheidt born?

Manfred "Manny" Schellscheidt was born on January 17, 1941.

What were Manny Schellscheidt's major achievements as a player?

As a player, he won two National Challenge Cup titles (1970, 1972) with Elizabeth S.C. and one American Soccer League title (1976) with the New Jersey Americans.

What is Manny Schellscheidt best known for as a coach?

He is most renowned for his exceptional 42-year coaching career at Seton Hall University, where he achieved over 400 wins, led the team to 15 NCAA Tournament appearances, and secured numerous conference championships. He also coached U.S. National Youth Teams and won two professional championships.

When was Manny Schellscheidt inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame?

Manny Schellscheidt was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2004.