Chris Henderson, born on November 12, 1970 in Edmonds, Washington, discovered his passion for soccer at a young age. He honed his skills on the field throughout his childhood and high school years, developing into a talented midfielder with a bright future ahead of him.
Upon graduating from high school, Henderson decided to further his education and soccer career at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). It was during his time at UCLA that Henderson truly made a name for himself in the world of collegiate soccer. In his sophomore year, he played a pivotal role in leading the UCLA Bruins to a national championship victory, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport.
After his successful college career, Henderson set his sights on the professional soccer world. In 1996, he made his debut in Major League Soccer (MLS) as a member of the Colorado Rapids. Henderson quickly established himself as a dynamic midfielder, known for his technical skills, strategic play, and leadership on the field.
Over the course of 11 years in the MLS, Henderson played for multiple teams, including the Kansas City Wizards and the Miami Fusion. His standout performances and contributions to his teams earned him recognition as one of the top midfielders in the league.
In 2006, Henderson decided to take his talents overseas and signed with Norwegian club Rosenborg BK. He spent two successful seasons in Europe, showcasing his abilities on an international stage and further solidifying his reputation as a skilled and versatile player.
Throughout his career, Henderson also had the honor of representing his country as a member of the United States national team. From 1990 to 2001, he donned the red, white, and blue jersey with pride, making significant contributions to the team's success on the international stage.
One of Henderson's most notable achievements with the US national team was his partnership with fellow midfielder Cobi Jones. Together, they formed a formidable duo on the field, displaying exceptional teamwork, creativity, and passion for the game.
Upon his retirement from professional soccer, Henderson left behind a lasting legacy in the MLS. With 317 career games played, he became the league's all-time leader in this category, a testament to his longevity, durability, and consistency as a player.
Off the field, Henderson's influence extended beyond his own career. His younger brother, Sean Henderson, followed in his footsteps and also enjoyed success as a professional soccer player in the MLS, playing for the Colorado Rapids and Seattle Sounders.
Today, Chris Henderson remains a respected figure in the soccer community, known for his contributions to the sport both on and off the field. His dedication, talent, and passion for the game continue to inspire aspiring athletes and fans alike.
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