The U.S. men’s national soccer team has a rich legacy of father-son duos. While their names might not resonate like those of famous pairs such as Griffey or Manning, they have significantly influenced U.S. soccer history from the time of the inaugural World Cup.
In honor of Father’s Day, we reflect on the memorable father-son partnerships within the U.S. men’s program, both among players and coaches.
Gregg and Sebastian Berhalter
The latest father-son duo is unique, featuring a player-turned-manager. Gregg participated in three World Cup squads—twice as a player (2002, 2006) and as a manager in 2022. In an interesting twist, Sebastian made his competitive debut for the U.S. in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup match against Trinidad & Tobago.
Bob and Michael Bradley
Although Bob never played for the U.S. men’s national team, his contributions as a coach were invaluable during the 2010 World Cup—where Michael was a key player. Following in his father’s footsteps, Michael was recently appointed coach for the MLS reserve team, New York Red Bulls II, potentially paving the way for the first father-son coaching duo for the USMNT.
James and George Brown
This duo represents the team’s early days, with James scoring in the first-ever World Cup in 1930. While his son George had limited appearances, both were essential to soccer’s development in the U.S. They are both honored in the National Soccer Hall of Fame.
Phillip and Joe Gyau
The Gyau family brings a legacy of players from three generations, with Phillip’s own father playing for Ghana and representing the U.S. from 1989-91. His son Joe, who last played for the U.S. in 2019, also had stints at various German clubs.
Harry and Ty Keough
The Keough family has stories from both the World Cup and the Olympics, with Harry part of the iconic 1950 team that famously beat England. Ty, destined for the Olympics in 1980, still made eight appearances for the national team.
Joe and Alain Maca
Joe was a member of the 1950 World Cup squad and had a successful career in the NASL. His son Alain played for the U.S. team in the 1970s before taking a notable career path in aviation.
Claudio and Gio Reyna
Claudio and Gio not only share a striking resemblance but also parallel careers in soccer, both playing in central midfield roles. Claudio boasts four World Cup participations compared to Gio’s growing number of appearances.
Tim and Taylor Twellman
While Taylor enjoyed a successful career, his father Tim made a mark with a single U.S. men’s appearance in 1982 and has family connections in professional soccer. Taylor has since transitioned to sports broadcasting.
