WILLIAM J. "BILLY" GOAZIOU SCHOLARSHIPS Honoring Billy Goaziou

William J. "Billy" Goaziou was involved in soccer as a coach and an administrator for more than 25 years. He served as treasurer of US Youth Soccer and the Florida Youth Soccer Association, as well as chairman of the US Youth Soccer Budget and Olympic Development Program Committees. Bill also took office as U.S. Soccer Federation's Treasurer in 1994, and was reelected three times (in 1998, 2000, and 2004). Beyond the soccer world, Goaziou served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps.

"Bill was a dedicated servant to soccer for more than a quarter century, and his experience, skill and commitment will be sorely missed," said former President of the U.S. Soccer Federation, Sunil Gulati.

In 2006, US Youth Soccer renamed the 14-and-Under Boys US Youth Soccer National Championship Cup in honor of Goaziou. To further honor Billy, the US Youth Soccer Foundation has established scholarships in his memory for all that he has done for US Youth Soccer and soccer in the United States.

In 2023, the US Youth Soccer Foundation will award two, one-year William J. "Billy" Goaziou scholarships of $1,250 each, to students planning to attend a post secondary educational institution (PSEI) beginning in the fall of 2023, and have not previously been admitted as a student of any post secondary educational institution. The basis for awarding of the scholarships will be community service and giving back to the game. Participation in soccer at the collegiate level is not a prerequisite. Scholarships will be paid directly to the PSEI.

Eligibility

Seniors in high school when the application is submitted. Those students who are currently enrolled in a PSEI (or the equivalent) as a senior in high school will not be excluded from consideration.
Participation (as a player) in a US Youth Soccer program during the applicant’s junior or senior year.
Minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 in a college prep curriculum.
Demonstrate active service to their community and a strong desire to give back to the game of soccer.

Application Procedure

An applicant must include all of the following:

A completed application;
a high school transcript through the last semester completed prior to April 1, 2023;
a personal, typed essay (500 words or less) describing how soccer has personally affected your life or the development of your character; and
no more than two letters of recommendation from the following: teacher, principal, coach, counselor, or community leader. A phone number and email address of the person(s) completing the letters of recommendation should be included in the letter(s).

The deadline to submit your application is April 15, 2023. Scholarship recipients will be notified by email on or before May 1, 2023, and will be publicly announced upon acceptance. Applications must be submitted through online form; mailed and emailed applications will not be considered. Please email eburlison@usyouthsoccer.org if you have any questions.