Walter John Giesler (September 6, 1909 – July 5, 1976)[1] was an Americansoccer administrator, and coach best known for coaching theUnited States men's national soccer team in the1950 FIFA World Cup.[2]
Born inSt. Louis, Missouri, Giesler would become a towering figure on theMidwestern sports landscape. After playing at McBride High School, he would compete in several amateur and professional leagues, including theBen Millers in theSt. Louis Soccer League.[1]
Following his playing days, he became an administrator and referee, and owned a sporting goods business in St. Louis. Giesler was the second vice-president of theUnited States Soccer Football Association, serving from 1945 to 1948. He was then elected president and served in that capacity from 1948 until 1949. Giesler coached theUnited States men's national soccer team during the1948 Olympic Games inLondon and the1950 FIFA World Cup inBrazil.
Giesler was inducted into theNational Soccer Hall of Fame in 1952[3] and the St. Louis Soccer Hall of Fame in 1971.[4] In 1972 he was the general manager of theSt. Louis Frogs of the ASL.[5]
He died inPhiladelphia on July 5, 1976, during the induction of the United States 1950 World Cup soccer team into the U.S. Soccer Hall of Fame.[1]
United States squads | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| |||||||
