'The Legend'

Forty-one years ago, only nine IU students showed up for coach Jerry Yeagley's inaugural club soccer meeting at the School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation.\nSaturday night, at a banquet honoring the legendary coach's tenure at IU, more than 1,000 people -- including former and current players -- gathered to honor soccer's all-time winningest coach. \nMaster of Ceremonies Don Rawson welcomed the John Mellencamp Pavilion crowd, which featured at least one player from each of the 41 teams under Yeagley. \nIU President Adam Herbert and athletic director Terry Clapacs gave the first two speeches, which were then followed by others, including Yeagley's predecessor, Mike Freitag, who, after receiving a standing ovation, tearfully cast his excitement and optimism for continued success. \nAmong others speaking Saturday night, were IU Foundation President Curt Simic, IU Alumni Association President Ken Beckley and Indiana State Sen. Vi Simpson, D-Ellettsville.\nFour former players, including Frietag, serenaded their former coach with tales and praise.\nTwo of the highlighted speakers were Yeagley's college coach, Mel Lorback, who garnered laugh after laugh from the spirited crowd and keynote speaker and longtime Yeagley friend and Seattle Pacific soccer coach Cliff McCrath.\nAmong the awards and presentations given to Yeagley, former Secretary General of U.S. Soccer Hank Steinbrecher announced the National Soccer Coaches Association of America's longtime achievement award was being renamed in honor of Yeagley. \nThe three hours worth of presentations, featuring numerous special videos honoring the 41 years of excellence, concluded with Yeagley recalling a few of his most memorable times at IU.\nYeagley, surprised at the Valentine's Day turnout, thanked all his former coaches, players and friends for their hard work and dedication in making IU soccer the prestigious program it is today.