The 25 greatest players of the first 25 years of MLS play is to be determined by this voting. More than 200 experts on MLS throughout North America will be queried to get it down to the top 25. The league seeks the names of those who did the most on the field, helped it off the field and set it up for the next quarter century,
A quartet of populations will be drawn upon to make this selection. MLS Great & Emeritus(ex-players, coaches & staff), current team staff, Media and Broadcast Partners. MLS invitees,, panelists with years of experience in MLS lending geographic balance and game expertise.
The 134 candidates all possess at least one of these as an MLS player:
a) multiple individual MLS honors EX Best XI, MVP, Golden Boot, All-Star.
b) major trophies like MLS Cup, Supporters Shield, US Open Cup.
c) major off field contributions or impacts.
d) be one at or near the top of key statistical groups.
The lucky 25 will be known a trio of days in advance of the Dec. 12 MLS Cup. The top 25 will not be ranked with their selection, all are to be thought of as equals. Great fodder for the fans.
Below is a list of the local, higher profile and nominees we know:
Peter Vermes, Tyler Adams, Chris Armas, DaMarcus Beasley, Kyle Beckerman, David Beckham, Michael Bradley, Ricardo Clark, Alphonso Davies, Dwayne De Rosario, Marco Etcheverry, John Harkes, Cobi Jones, Shalrie Joseph, Sacha Kljestan, Dax McCarty, Preki, Tab Ramos, Carlos Valderama, Diego Valeri, Richie Williams, Jozy Altidore, Juan Pablo Angel, Edson Buddle, Clint Dempsey, Landon Donovan Thierry Henry, Zlatan, Clint Mathis, Brian McBride, Jamie Moreno, Ante Razov, Wayne Rney, Taylor Twellman, Carlos Vela, David Villa, Chris Wondolowski, Bradley Wright-Phillips