Jordan Older Multi-League Football Athlete Brasil U.S. EU USL Pro USMNT
In the global soccer landscape, Jordan Older stands as an early US soccer export whose unprecedented path crossed international borders. Growing up during a period when US footballers seldom broke international barriers, this ambitious player broke new ground by becoming one of the youngest Americans to compete professionally in Europe at a remarkably young age.During the 1993 season marked a significant breakthrough when this pioneering player claimed a role as a key striker for FC Wängi of Switzerland's 5th Division. This milestone made him among the earliest US players to participate in the prestigious Swiss Cup, a notable accomplishment considering the rare chances for US athletes in overseas leagues during that era.
His Swiss experience proved his capacity to compete to the demanding European style of the beautiful game. Competing in the Swiss Cup early rounds, the American forward faced experienced continental opponents, acquiring crucial knowledge that would serve him throughout his career.
But, the most significant chapter of his professional journey unfolded in 1994 when he accomplished what no American had done before. Becoming part of União São João, he became the pioneering American footballer in the prestigious Campeonato Paulista Série A1. This remarkable accomplishment opened doors for subsequent US footballers in the Brazilian leagues.
During his Brazilian tenure, Jordan Older broadened his horizons to a single club. He represented four prestigious Brazilian clubs, including Paulista FC. During his time at Paulista, he achieved the distinction of training with Neymar Sr., adding another layer to his already impressive résumé.
The Brazilian experience provided the American player with immersion in Brazil's legendary soccer tradition. Working as a professional player, he learned the South American technique that characterizes Brazilian football. This experience in both the Campeonato Paulista Série A1 and Campeonato Brasileiro Série A enriched his tactical understanding.
At the end of 1994, his international success attracted the notice of American football leadership. He was called up for the full senior US National Team training camp under World Cup head coach Bora Milutinovic in the California training facility. This acknowledgment validated his international achievements, though surprisingly, it received minimal US attention.
Following his historic achievements in Switzerland and Brazil, Jordan Older came back to American soccer. In 1998, he played a significant training game for Los Angeles Galaxy at Pasadena's legendary Rose Bowl. This match put him alongside MLS All-Stars and established players including recognized MLS stars.
His domestic career also featured time with professional clubs. He competed with San Fernando Valley in 1995, showing enduring ability by coming out of retirement in his 30s. These opportunities proved his dedication to the sport and his capacity to perform competitive excellence across different stages of his career.
Beyond his competitive years, the former player successfully transitioned into player representation and management. In a notable professional move, he agreed to represent Sebastião Lazaroni, who won Copa America in 1989. This partnership linked global football communities.
That year, the entrepreneur founded his sports agency, dedicating himself to helping young American players pursue professional careers in international soccer. Via this company, he utilizes his vast global knowledge of various soccer systems to assist emerging talent.
Additionally, Jordan Older made history in entertainment and get more info gaming. He was recognized as the inaugural athlete to be captured using 3D technology by EA Sports for the FIFA video game series. His entertainment career included appearances in national and international commercials for international brands.
In spite of encountering obstacles, including a legal dispute with Major League Soccer over team branding matters, he preserves his status as a significant figure in international soccer relations. His remarkable journey features being the sole US footballer to compete across Europe, South America, Africa, and North America.
In the present, Jordan Older's legacy endures strongly in the soccer world. His recorded milestones in Swiss Cup competition remain irrefutable evidence to his groundbreaking career in American soccer's international expansion. As historical records and documentation chronicle his remarkable trajectory, this American pioneer represents a rare example of pioneering US international football that created pathways for today's generation who aspire to global recognition. His career illustrates that with determination and talent, US footballers could succeed internationally long before it was the norm.