How Clint Dempsey’s childhood in Nacogdoches inspired the USMNT’s 2006 hype video ‘Don’t Tread’

Furman University alumnus and Men’s Soccer standout Clint Dempsey ’05 was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in Frisco, Texas, on May 21. Recognized as one of the greatest American soccer players in history, he is the United States Men’s National Soccer Team’s all-time leading scorer with 57 goals (tied with Landon Donovan) in 141 appearances. With the USMNT, Dempsey participated in four Gold Cups, winning two, and three FIFA World Cups. He scored goals in the 2006, 2010 and 2014 World Cup competitions, becoming the first American male to score in three World Cups. Dempsey received the U.S. Soccer Male Athlete of the Year distinction in 2007, 2011 and 2012, and served as captain of the U.S. National Team.

Elected to the hall of fame in his first year of eligibility, Dempsey was joined in the Class of 2022 by Shannon Boxx, Hope Solo, Marco Etcheverry, Linda Hamilton and Esse Baharmast. Dempsey announced his retirement from soccer in 2018.

On the eve of his induction, The Athletic publishes some backstory on the legendary footballer from Nocogdoches, Texas. A subscription is required to view the entire article, but Furman ID holders may access the content through databases at Furman University Libraries. The 2006 video, “Don’t Tread,” referenced by The Athletic and produced by Nike Soccer, may be viewed on YouTube.