Cobi Jones during his career. (www.AndyMead/YCJ.com)
Former U.S. national team standout Cobi Jones is running for U.S. Soccer vice president.
The National Soccer Hall of Fame members announced his candidacy on Twitter Monday afternoon.
“I’m excited to announce my candidacy for U.S. Soccer vice president,” Jones wrote. “This game has allowed me to do so much with my life and my lived experience touches every level of the game. Throughout my career I have given back to the game through school appearances, clinics, volunteering with numerous non-profits, including the Special Olympics, and most recently through my ownership in Angel City FC.”
Angel City FC is a National Women’s Soccer League expansion team that is expected to begin play in 2022.
“Like many of us, I have experienced racial inequality and seen the gender inequality that plagues our society and game,” Jones continued. “I’m ready to contribute, to make a difference, and ensure that U.S. Soccer reflects the diversity of our families, friends and teammates. As the vice president, I want to ensure more opportunities are available to the next generation. In 2020, U.S. Soccer made history with the appointment of president Cindy Parlow Cone; it is time to make history again.
“Representation and access will inform all that I do. Increasing representation and access at every level of U.S. Soccer will grow our game in all its forms and allow the diversity of thought necessary to make U.S. Soccer better for us all.”
Jones, 50, made a record 164 international appearances for the U.S. men’s national team from 1994-200, while playing in three World Cups.
He played his entire Major League Soccer career with the LA Galaxy, competing in 306 games and scoring 70 goals. Jones also played for Coventry City (England) and Vasco da Gama (Brazil).
