A three-time MLS All-Star (1998, 1999, 2002), Comeback Player of the Year (2004) and former co-captain for the Black & Gold, Brian Maisonneuve has his place in the Columbus Crew SC history books.
The defensive midfielder spent his entire professional career in Columbus from 1996 to 2004. He played 172 games, which ranks him fifth in club history, starting 159 of them (fourth most all-time). He scored 23 goals and delivered 37 assists, with eight in each category resulting in game winners. Maisonneuve was also a starter for the U.S. Men's National Team during the 1998 World Cup in France
“My entire career was one fantastic moment,” Maisonneuve tells ColumbusCrewSC.com.
Now a coach at Indiana University with former teammate and friend Todd Yeagly, Maisonneuve will have to miss Saturday’s Twenty Season celebration at MAPFRE Stadium. So we talked with him ahead of time about his time in the Capital City.
What’s your most memorable moment playing for Crew SC?
My nine years that I was there! I can honestly say my entire career was one fantastic moment. My coaches and teammates, the fans and organization, the entire city and community were all fantastic and will be the most memorable moment for me. My only regret is that we couldn’t win an MLS Cup, or two or three. But I wouldn’t trade my career in Columbus for anything.
Of the 172 matches you played for Crew SC, which ones stand out to you most and why?
It sounds repetitive but I enjoyed them all. I would have to note that the opening game in 1996 was incredible and of course the opening of the first soccer specific stadium in ‘99 was an unforgettable moment.
Favorite goal you ever scored?
I didn’t score nearly enough so they were all my favorite (I’m doing it again). But the goal I closed my eyes and hit a volley versus, at the time, the Metrostars with Timmy Howard in goal was one that I remember quite well.
Who was your favorite player growing up? Who’s your favorite player to watch now?
Growing up it was hard to watch games as they were never on TV. I did have the pleasure of going to many Detroit Express games and I tried to make it to one of their summer camps each year. Pato Margetic was one of the biggest names for the Express that I loved to watch. And players like Mike Getman and Jim Gabarra were players I liked watching and worked with at camp. However, Pele was always my favorite growing up. Today, watching Messi play is always a treat.
Looking back at your experience in MLS, what advice would you give to current Crew SC players?
To enjoy every minute of your career in Columbus. It is such a wonderful place. Not only enjoy your time in Columbus but enjoy the fact you are playing something you love for a living. Enjoy the big time games as well as the daily grind when you are tired and sore. There are definite ups and downs in being a professional athlete but it is the best job in the world.
What do you think has changed the most in MLS over its 20 years?
The professional soccer environment is incredible nowadays. The fans, the stadiums, training facilities, just the overall approach to the professional game is so much different. I am such a huge MLS fan and its an honor that I was a part of it.
What was it like playing for the U.S. Men’s National Team in the 1998 World Cup in France?
It was a dream come true. I always dreamt of playing in a World Cup and to have had that opportunity is unforgettable. Of course, I wish we could have done much better but it was an incredible experience.
Favorite Crew SC story to tell at parties?
I have a lot. As I mentioned before the professional soccer environment was so much different back then and there wasn’t nearly as much exposure to the teams and players. It was funny as there were so many times that somebody would ask me what I did for a living. When I mentioned I played for the Crew there were two totally different mind sets.
One person would automatically think I was making millions since I was a pro athlete (and that couldn’t have been farther from the truth) and other one would ask “what do you do for your real job?” It was such a fun time.
What places do you miss most in Columbus?
The home games were the best. I loved my routine before and after the games. To go to battle with my teammates on the field and then have the opportunity to hang in the tent with the fans was great. I remember the days at the Horseshoe when we would go to the Varsity Club after the games. Good times!
Aside from soccer, the Columbus Zoo was a favorite. The Arena district, Short North and Easton were spots my wife and I went quite often. The last house we lived in was up in Powell and we loved the community up there. There are so many great pockets in Columbus, it’s hard to name them all.
What’s it like coaching with Todd Yeagley at Indiana University?
I couldn’t ask for anything better. To go to work with one of your best friends everyday doesn’t happen too often. We think the game so much alike, but I still learn from him every day. When we don’t agree on things we have good discussions on them and always move forward on the same page. We also have the same love for IU and coaching in Bloomington is so much more than a 9-5 job. It’s a wonderful situation.
Is there anything you would like to say to Crew SC supporters?
All I can say is thank you for such a wonderful career in Columbus. I get emotional when I talk about my time with the Crew and its all because of the people I was fortunate enough to be surrounded by. I will be a Crew supporter forever. Thanks so much for everything!
