In the 1970 World Cup, England, the defending World Cup champion, played Brazil, arguably the greatest team ever assembled. When the ninety minutes of fierce competition under the broiling Guadalajara sun ended, a defining moment in soccer history occurred.

Pelé and Bobby Moore embraced and then respectfully exchanged their match jerseys. The symbolism of their exchange was then, and remains today, compelling. Forward and defender. South American and European. Black and White. Small village and big city suburb. Samba soccer and traditional soccer. Emerging champion and defending champion.

This moment and its symbolism shape the business philosophy of SoccerSolutions®:
  • Soccer is a transcendent influence around the world.
  • Competition can be tough and fair.
  • Competitors can compete with respect for one another and the game itself.
  • Striving to be the best is an intense experience.
  • Winning counts - but it is not everything.
  • People and cultures of the world, however different, can come together.
  • Leadership in an organization can come from both the front and the back.
  • Being champion today does not guarantee being champion tomorrow.
  • Different "teams" need different game plans.
  • Relationships matter.
  • Being a fully committed participant is exhilarating.


Photograph: Mirror Syndicate International