Bruce Arena Speaking Fee: $20,000 to $30,000

Bruce Arena is a seasoned American soccer coach renowned for his extensive contributions to the sport in the United States. Born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Franklin Square, Long Island, Arena's journey into soccer began in high school, where he initially played as a defender before transitioning to goalkeeper. He continued his athletic pursuits at Nassau Community College and later at Cornell University, excelling in both lacrosse and soccer. His collegiate success laid the foundation for a distinguished coaching career. Arena's professional coaching career commenced in 1996 with D.C. United, where he led the team to two MLS Cup titles in its inaugural seasons. His success continued with the LA Galaxy, where he secured three MLS Cup championships (2011, 2012, 2014) and two Supporters' Shields. In addition to his MLS achievements, Arena has been a pivotal figure in U.S. soccer, serving as head coach of the U.S. Men's National Team during the 2002 and 2006 FIFA World Cups. Under his guidance, the team reached the quarterfinals in 2002, marking its best World Cup performance in decades. In 2019, Arena took on the role of head coach and sporting director for the New England Revolution, leading the team to a historic 73-point season in 2021, setting a new MLS single-season points record. His tenure with the Revolution was marked by a commitment to developing a competitive team and fostering a winning culture. However, in September 2023, Arena resigned from his position following an internal review. In November 2024, Arena returned to Major League Soccer as the head coach and sporting director of the San Jose Earthquakes. His appointment was seen as a strategic move to revitalize the Earthquakes, a team with a rich history but recent challenges. Arena's extensive experience and proven track record in MLS are expected to play a crucial role in the team's efforts to return to prominence in the league. Beyond his coaching achievements, Arena has been recognized for his contributions to soccer development in the United States. He was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2010 and received the Werner Fricker Builder Award in 2015, honoring his long-standing impact on the sport. Arena's leadership, strategic insights, and dedication to the growth of soccer continue to influence the landscape of American soccer.