Howard University honors 1974 Men’s Soccer Team with hall of fame induction

Howard University recently inducted its historic 1974 men’s soccer team into its Athletics Hall of Fame, commemorating their undefeated season and national title. The event, held over a weekend of celebrations, marked a significant moment for the school, paying tribute to the team’s groundbreaking accomplishments in the world of collegiate athletics.

The 1974 team’s victory was particularly remarkable as it made Howard the only HBCU (Historically Black College and University) soccer team to win a national championship. The victory is seen as a monumental achievement, not just for Howard, but also for the broader Black community. Trevor Leiba, the team’s goalkeeper, spoke to the lasting impact of the team’s success. “I didn’t fully realize the magnitude of what we did for Howard and the Black community at the time,” Leiba said in an interview with The Dig, Howard’s news publication. “Now, looking back, it’s clear how special it was to be part of a team that made history and remains the only HBCU team to win a national title.”

The weekend kicked off with the official induction ceremony on Friday, which was followed by a celebratory dinner on Sunday. Howard alumnus Rock Newman emceed the dinner, adding to the festive atmosphere. The celebration coincided with the 2016 release of Redemption Song, a documentary that spotlighted the team’s incredible journey and legacy. Their 1971 NCAA championship title was controversially revoked due to eligibility violations, but they came back strong in 1974, securing the championship once again.

Head coach Lincoln Phillips, who guided the team from 1970 to 1980, emphasized the significance of the team’s resilience. “We knew we were the rightful champions after 1971, and in 1974, we fought to reclaim what was ours,” Phillips said. “That undefeated season was a testament to our resilience. To accomplish that feat, without losing a game, was a historic achievement.”

Phillips also recognized the broader impact of the team’s success on the sport of soccer, particularly in the Black community. “Back then, soccer wasn’t seen as a major sport in the U.S. But now, it’s grown so much, and our team helped lay the foundation for soccer to grow, particularly among Black people,” Phillips noted. “What we did in the 1970s was key to making soccer more appreciated by our community.”

The Hall of Fame induction not only honors the team’s athletic achievements but also underscores the importance of HBCUs in the broader landscape of college sports. The 1974 team proved that excellence in athletics is not confined to traditionally dominant schools, breaking barriers and challenging norms. Their undefeated season and championship win served as a beacon of possibility for future generations of athletes.

Leiba, who has witnessed the lasting recognition of the team’s achievement, expressed pride in their legacy. “It’s humbling to meet people who still recognize our achievement,” Leiba said. “It’s an honor to have been part of a team that made history. We are proud of the legacy we’ve left.”

This induction serves not only as a celebration of the past but as an inspiration for future athletes. The 1974 team’s legacy continues to live on, motivating students and athletes at Howard and beyond. Their story proves that perseverance, teamwork, and determination can lead to groundbreaking achievements, even in the face of adversity.