CHICAGO (May 4, 2023) – U.S. Soccer is mourning the passing of Terry Vaughn, a long-time U.S. Soccer referee and a member of the FIFA Panel, the world’s highest level of officiating, from 2004-2012.
During his career from 1998-2012, Vaughn officiated nearly 250 matches, including the 2007 and 2009 Concacaf Gold Cups, the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup, several FIFA World Cup qualifying matches and a number of Concacaf Champions League matches.
“Terry was an inspiration to all referees,” said Rick Eddy, U.S. Soccer Director of Referee Development. “He became your friend for life after meeting him the first time. I never heard anyone make negative comments towards Terry. The way he handled himself on and off the field is to be commended.
“On a personal note, I was able to work with Terry in many games. He led by example. When you saw Terry doing extra work, it was easy to emulate him. He had an infectious smile that instilled confidence in others. Through his legacy, I hope younger officials will be influenced by the way he carried himself.”
Vaughn passed away from Huntington’s Disease, a hereditary disorder that causes the breakdown of nerve cells. A long-time member of the Professional Referee Organization, all PRO referees officiating matches in professional leagues this weekend will wear black armbands to honor Vaughn and blue armbands to commemorate Huntington’s Disease Awareness Month.
Vaughn also gave back to the referee community through his Terry Vaughn Referee Academy, which helped match officials realize their true potential by working to be the best referees they could be.
A native of Mt. Vernon, Iowa, Vaughn was an all-conference soccer player in high school and graduated from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He was inducted into the Iowa High School Soccer Coaches Hall of Fame in 2017.
