Formed in 1947 by a group of former professional and amateur players, the Philadelphia Oldtimers Soccer Association has had a long and storied history in the Philadelphia area including its Hall of Fame (with over 370 inductees), its promotion of the game, its commitment to the community and its support of youth and high school soccer.

Not known to most in the world of soccer is the fact that the Philadelphia Oldtimers Soccer Association was actually the forerunner of the National Soccer Hall of Fame. In 1950 the “Oldtimers” formed the National Soccer Hall of Fame, inducting its first 15 members. In 1953 the administration of the National Soccer Hall of Fame was transferred to the United States Soccer Football Association (USSFA). The National Soccer Hall of Fame is now under the direction of USSoccer.

In 2008, the Philadelphia Oldtimers Soccer Association, in an effort to meet the changing soccer environment, became the Southeastern Pennsylvania Soccer Hall of Fame. After sixty-two memorable years, the “Oldtimers” realized that the world of soccer was changing dramatically and that the organization needed a new approach. In order to facilitate this change, new officers were elected and a plan devised for the future of the organization. Bob Kozlowski as President and Gordon Dunlop, Jr. as Vice-president, were chosen to lead the way with this transition.

The new organization, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Soccer Hall of Fame, has stated that it is firmly committed to continuing the Oldtimers’ legacy and perpetuate its venerable Hall of Fame. The very popular annual spring banquet, which has become a “who’s who in soccer” event, will also be continued and expanded.

This transition has enabled the organization to expand its reaches into the surrounding areas of Southeastern Pennsylvania, and initiate new programs to help build the soccer community. The sponsorship of signature events for youth and a pre-season, boys and girls high school tournament have been initiated. Partnerships are being developed with various soccer entities including leagues, clubs, schools, sponsors, organizations, and the Philadelphia Union Soccer Club. Our highlight event is our annual “Coats for Chester Campaign” where we galvanize the soccer community to help us collect coats and donate them to needy families in the city of Chester, PA.