The OSA News Bulletin

VAUGHAN, ON — Long-time soccer executive William Hoyle is hanging up his boots.

Founding Chairman of The Soccer Hall of Fame & Museum since 1997 and President of The Ontario Soccer Association (OSA) from 1979 to 1986, Bill has been dedicated to the promotion, development and history of soccer in Ontario and Canada for over 50 years.

Bill leaves behind an impressive array of achievements, amongst which is his leading role in the establishment and development of The Soccer Hall of Fame & Museum in Vaughan.

The Soccer Hall of Fame & Museum owes so much to Bill’s passion, energy and inspiration that it is affectionately known by insiders as The “Hoyle” of Fame!

Since its inception, more than 100 individuals and teams have been recognized and inducted for their contribution to Canadian soccer, including luminaries such as Steve Stavro, George Gross, Bobby Lenarduzzi and former FIFA referee Sonia Denoncourt.. The Museum has over 10,000 artifacts and hosts school and community groups who wish to visit year-round.

Currently, The Soccer Hall of Fame & Museum is recognized in North America as the primary source for information on the history of the game. Even FIFA calls Hall of Fame historian, Colin Jose, to check their facts.

Appointed Chairman Emeritus, Bill will continue volunteering with The Soccer Hall of Fame & Museum while day-to-day leadership responsibilities will be assumed by current Governor, Les Jones.

“As with most soccer organizations in Ontario and Canada, The Soccer Hall of Fame and Museum is volunteer-driven and relies heavily on the input of countless free hours of service in support of the game,” said Guy Bradbury, OSA CEO. “Over five decades, Bill Hoyle’s knowledge, experience and dedication in the promotion and development of soccer and its heritage in Canada has contributed immensely to the cause.”

“Bill Hoyle exemplifies the talent, dedication and selfless service of the many volunteers which enable participation in and enjoyment of soccer in Ontario and Canada,” said John Knox, OSA President.

“The Ontario Soccer Association has benefitted enormously from Bill’s efforts over the years and his tireless work on The Soccer Hall of Fame and Museum has been instrumental in consolidating our game’s proud heritage for future generations.

“On behalf of the membership, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to Bill for his many significant contributions and we wish him many more years contributing to the game which is his life’s passion.”

BILL HOYLE

• President, Ontario Soccer Association (OSA), 1979-1986 (one of the longest serving presidents)
• Member Organizing Committee, 1974 CONCACAF Youth Tournament
• Member Organizing Committee, FIFA World Under 17 Tournament
• Honorary Life Member, Ontario Soccer Association, 1988
• Chairman of OSA Heritage Committee, 1988 – 1997
• Chairman of the Board of Directors of The Soccer Hall of Fame & Museum, 1997-2008
• Recipient of the Canadian Soccer Association’s ‘President’s Award’ in 2005 for Service to the Game
• Long-time Member of the OSA Finance committee

With notes from Les Jones
Photo by Wolf Ruck / OSA

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