American professional soccer player who has played for D.C. United and the US national team, known for his defensive skills and athleticism.
Steve Birnbaum is a force to be reckoned with on the soccer field, known for his unrelenting defensive prowess as the captain and centerback of D.C. United in Major League Soccer. With a career marked by consistency and dominance, Birnbaum has become a household name in American professional soccer.
Born on January 23, 1991, in Newport, California, Birnbaum grew up in Irvine, California, where he developed a passion for soccer from an early age. His mother, Peggy Schmidt Birnbaum, a former softball and volleyball player at the University of Missouri, instilled in him the value of hard work and dedication.
Birnbaum's exceptional talent was evident during his high school days at Northwood High School, where he completed his education early at the age of 17. In addition to soccer, he also excelled in volleyball and lacrosse. His impressive skills earned him a spot in the U.S. Soccer Development Academy with Southern California club Pateadores, where he served as captain.
At the University of California, Berkeley, Birnbaum played for the California Golden Bears men's soccer team on a scholarship, earning numerous accolades, including 2010 and 2011 Pac-12 All-Academic honorable mention, 2011 and 2013 All-Pac-12 first team, and 2013 Missouri Athletic Club Hermann Trophy semifinalist, among others. During his college years, he also appeared for USL PDL club Orange County Blue Star in 2010 and 2011.
Birnbaum's professional career began in 2014, when he was drafted by D.C. United in the first round of the MLS SuperDraft. Since then, he has been an integral part of the team, leading by example as captain and playing every minute of every game in the 2018 season. That year, he led Major League Soccer in total clearances, headed clearances, and aerials won.
In 2019, Birnbaum continued to dominate, again leading the league in headed clearances and aerials won. His impressive performances have earned him recognition as one of the top centerbacks in the MLS.
Off the field, Birnbaum celebrates Christmas with his family, a tradition he adopted from his mother. His commitment to his faith and family is evident in his actions and words, showcasing his humble and grounded personality.
Birnbaum's story serves as an inspiration to young soccer players and aspiring professionals, demonstrating the importance of hard work, dedication, and resilience in achieving success at the highest level.
As a stalwart defender and leader of D.C. United, Steve Birnbaum has left an indelible mark on the world of professional soccer. His unwavering commitment to excellence, both on and off the field, has earned him a reputation as one of the most respected players in the MLS.
As he continues to excel in his career, Birnbaum's legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of soccer players, solidifying his place as a true legend of American professional soccer.
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