November 15 – Former US national team player Mia Hamm became the first woman to be inducted into the World Football Hall of Fame in Pachuca, Mexico. Hamm played 275 times for the US over a 17-year career, scoring 158 goals – more than any other international players, male or female.
She was named FIFA World Player of the Year in 2001 and 2002.
CONCACAF president Jeffrey Webb attended the third induction ceremony as part of his trip to Mexico for the 2014 World Cup first leg play off between Mexico and New Zealand.
“On behalf of the visiting CONCACAF delegation, I congratulate this year’s inductees who represent the pinnacle of this great sport of football, and who have impacted millions of people through their dedication and achievements,” said Webb.
This was a special and historical occasion, with the Hall of Fame commemorating Mia Hamm as the first female inductee.”
Ex El-Salvador international Jorge Alberto Gonzalez was the first Central American inductee along with Liberian former FIFA World Player of the Year George Weah from the African continent.
Additionally, from Mexican football Adalberto Lopez, Alfredo Tena, Luis Fernando Tena and Rafael Garza Gutierrez were recipients of such honor. Former Italy and AC Milan greats Franco Baresi and Paolo Maldini were also among the players inducted into the Hall of Fame as well as former U.S., Mexico and Costa Rica coach Bora Milutinovic.
Jesus Martinez, himself a member of CONCACAF’s Hall of Fame, is the owner of World Football Hall of Fame in Pachuca.
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