Our Mission
The mission of the Soccer Hall of Fame - Ontario is to identify, recognize, promote, and preserve Ontario’s rich soccer heritage, celebrating the achievements and contributions that have shaped the game in our province. We honour the legacy and work of Colin Jose, whose dedication to documenting and preserving the history of soccer in Canada has left an indelible mark on the sport. In his memory, we strive to inspire future generations by showcasing the stories and successes of those who have made significant contributions to soccer in Ontario.
Our Board Members
Our board members are a passionate group of soccer enthusiasts who work hard to ensure the history of the game is preserved. We are proud to have a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences that allow us to bring unique perspectives to the boardroom. Each board member is committed to helping the Soccer History website grow and evolve to become the go-to source for all things soccer.
Colin's Work
Colin Jose, originally from the charming seaport town of Falmouth, England, relocated to Canada over five decades ago. With more than 40 years dedicated to researching the history of soccer in Canada and the United States, Colin has established himself as the foremost expert on the sport's history in North America. His profound contributions were recognized when he served as the Historian for The Soccer Hall of Fame in Vaughan, Ontario, until its transition to Canada Soccer. In 2009, Colin's extensive historical research earned him an induction into The Soccer Hall of Fame in Vaughan.
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In the United States, Colin was the esteemed Historian and Archivist at the National Soccer Hall of Fame from 1997 to 2007. His impact was so significant that, on October 11, 2004, the Hall of Fame honoured him by naming its Media Award after him. Although the Hall of Fame in Oneonta closed in 2010 due to economic challenges, Colin's legacy endures.
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Colin also played a pivotal role on the executive committee of the International Federation of Football History and Statistics in Bonn, Germany, representing both Canada and the United States. He continues to serve as the Historian for the Hamilton, Ontario Soccer Hall of Fame.
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An accomplished author, Colin has penned nine books on North American soccer history, including two detailed explorations of the North American Soccer League: "NASL: A Complete Record of the North American Soccer League" and "North American Soccer League Encyclopedia." His other notable works include "American Soccer League 1921-1931," "The Encyclopedia of American Soccer History" (co-authored with Roger Allaway and David Litterer), "The United States Tackles the World Cup" (with Roger Allaway), "The United States and World Cup Soccer Competition," "The Story of Soccer in Canada," "Keeping Score: The Encyclopedia of Canadian Soccer," and "On Side: 125 Years of Soccer in Ontario."
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Given the lack of preserved records and publications on soccer in North America, Colin's diligent efforts with newspaper microfilm have been instrumental in reconstructing many historical records once thought lost. This website aspires to share these invaluable records with soccer enthusiasts and historians worldwide.
Get in Touch
Visit By Appointment Only
4995 Keele St, North York, ON
