Michelle AkersIn 1998, Michelle Akers founded Soccer Outreach International. SOI is a non-profit outreach organization with the goal to inspire a generation of leadership, character, and faith in kids around the world.

U.S. soccer coach Tony Dicco was once quoted as saying, "There has been no other woman who has played the game to her level. She's the best woman that's ever played the game, period." Her long list of career achievements is below. After looking at her accomplishments, you know why she's considered by so many to be the best female soccer player in U.S. history. She is also considered to be the toughest competitor in any sport. While competing at such a high level, for such a long period of time, she had 12 knee operations and endured countless other injuries. In 1991, Michelle was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome (CFIDS). CFIDS causes Akers to suffer feverish symptoms, low blood pressure and migraine headaches. She struggles to finish games and can't think clearly when her blood pressure drops. In fact, she usually receives two IV's after games in order to replenish her strength.

Dealing with an aliment like CFIDS and still achieving what Akers has accomplished requires incredible strength. She credits her faith in God as the source of that strength. Her intent of sharing that faith was the foundation for her starting Soccer Outreach International in 1998. Akers is an advocate for the CFIDS Association of America and the founder of the Michelle Akers Fund, along with the CFIDS Association of America. Plus, she is a public speaker for Campus Crusade for Christ, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Billy Graham Crusade, and various other international organizations and events. She is also a member of the Women's Sports Foundation Advisory Board, FIFA Soccer Committee, NSCAA Women's Subcommittee, and former member of the U.S. Soccer Federation National Board of Directors and Sports Outreach America Board. The Game and the Glory: an Autobiography was released in 1999, intending to show how her conversion to religion has been a guiding force in her life.

A few career highlights:

International:

  • United States National Team (1985-2000)
  • 1999 FIFA World Cup Champion
  • 1999 FIFA Bronze Ball
  • 1998 Goodwill Games Gold Medallist
  • 1996 Olympic Gold Medallist
  • 1995 Third Place FIFA World Cup
  • 1991 FIFA World Cup Champion
  • 1991 FIFA WC Golden Boot Winner, WC leading goal scorer
  • 1991 FIFA Silver Ball Award, Runner-up MVP
  • All time leading scorer in World Cup Competitions
  • One of four players worldwide to score over 100 career goals in international play
  • Over 130 caps/international matches

Special Honors

  • FIFA player of the Century 2000
  • Best Female Soccer Player Ever (Primera de Futbol) 2000
  • NSCAA Award of Excellence 2000
  • FIFA Merit of Honor Award 1998
  • USOC Athlete of the Year 1991
  • US Soccer Federation Female Player of the Year 1990, 1991, 1999
  • USOC Female Soccer Player of the Year 1990
  • ESPN Athlete of the Year 1985