Before soccer in North Texas had global reach or sold-out stadiums, it had Gordon Jago.
When Jago arrived in Dallas in the early 1980s, he didn’t just bring his experience as a former player and coach. He brought a vision. At a time when American soccer was still searching for its footing, Jago believed Dallas could become a hub for the game.
He first captured the city’s imagination as head coach of the Dallas Sidekicks, the indoor soccer powerhouse. Under Jago’s leadership, the Sidekicks won championships, packed arenas, and turned casual fans into die-hards. His sideline presence was calm, focused, and effective.
But his most enduring legacy may be tied to an idea that had far less glamour and far more purpose: youth development.
As executive director of the Dallas Cup from 2002-12, Jago transformed what began as a regional youth tournament into one of the world’s most prestigious showcases for emerging talent. He believed that the best players in the world, no matter where they were from, should have the chance to compete on the same fields as local kids right here in Dallas. Teams from Brazil, Israel, England, Japan, Argentina, and beyond came to North Texas to compete. Stars like David Beckham, Wayne Rooney, and Landon Donovan passed through the Dallas Cup on their way to becoming global superstars.
Clark Hunt, Chairman and CEO of FC Dallas, offered the following tribute:
"We are deeply saddened by the passing of Gordon Jago, a true pioneer and legend in the world of soccer. Gordon’s vision, leadership, and tireless dedication helped shape the growth of the sport not just in Dallas, but across the United States. His work with the Dallas Cup created a global platform that has impacted generations of young players and helped elevate the game on every level. Gordon was not only a brilliant football mind but a gentleman of the highest character. On behalf of our entire family and FC Dallas, we offer our heartfelt condolences to his loved ones and celebrate the extraordinary legacy he leaves behind."
After stepping down from his leadership role in 2013, Jago never truly left the tournament. He became its Ambassador and Special Consultant, continuing to guide and inspire the event.
Over the years, Gordon Jago’s contributions didn’t go unnoticed. In 2005, he was inducted as one of the first members of the FC Dallas Walk of Fame, recognizing his role in the growth of the sport in North Texas. In 2006, Queen Elizabeth II awarded him Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his lifetime of service to soccer. And in 2013, he was inducted into the Indoor Soccer Hall of Fame.
“Gordon was more than a soccer icon, he was a mentor, a builder, and a beloved figure in our community. I had the privilege of playing in the Dallas Cup twice, and even as a young player, I could feel the energy and excellence Gordon built into the tournament,“ said FC Dallas President and former Dallas Cup participant Dan Hunt.
“It wasn’t just a competition; it was an experience shaped by his passion for the game and his commitment to developing young talent from around the world. Gordon helped put Dallas on the global soccer map, and his legacy will continue to inspire all of us at FC Dallas and beyond. I will miss him greatly and am forever grateful for his friendship and the example he set."
But to those who knew him, his real honor was always something simpler: he cared. About the game, about the people in it, and about building something that would last long after he was gone.
Jago died Friday night in his sleep at his DFW-area home at the age of 92.