CHICAGO (April 30, 2008) — U.S. Soccer today is mourning the loss of long-time Board Member Bill Gaoziou, who passed away this morning at the age of 68 after battling emphysema. A four-term U.S. Soccer Treasurer, he had been involved in soccer as a coach and an administrator for more than 25 years.

“All of us in the U.S. Soccer community have lost a great partner and a dear friend,” said U.S. Soccer President Sunil Gulati. “From his work at the grassroots level to his tenure as one of the longest-serving board members in U.S. Soccer Federation history, Bill brought a passion and enthusiasm to his effort that has fueled the lifeblood of the sport in this country. Bill was a dedicated servant to soccer for more than a quarter century, and his experience, skill and commitment will be sorely missed. Our deepest sympathies go out to his wife Janice and daughters Jennifer and Michelle.”

Goaziou first took office in 1994, and was re-elected three times as U.S. Soccer Treasurer (in 1998, 2000 & 2004). He previously had been treasurer of the U.S. Youth Soccer Association (USYSA), treasurer of Florida Youth Soccer and chairman of the Youth Budget and Olympic Development Program Committees.

A Certified Public Accountant, Goaziou served as an adjunct professor at the University of South Florida and Hillsborough College. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, he also served as commissioner of the Hillsborough County Housing Authority and as an elected trustee of the Twelve Oaks Special Taxing District in Tampa.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, May 3, at 3 p.m. at the Ridgewood Lakes Club House in Davenport, Fla. In lieu of flowers, people can make donations in his name to the U.S. Soccer Foundation. Goaziou is survived by his wife, Janice, and daughters Jennifer and Michelle.