University of Vermont Athletics

Carl W. Christensen 1978 - Soccer

UVM's first men's soccer All-American and 1988 UVM Hall of Fame inductee, Carl Christensen was also the only player in Vermont history - and one of only three in league annals - to be named to the All-Yankee Conference team four straight years.

In the mid-'70s, three young Vermont high school graduates made an impression early at Post and Centennial Fields. Christensen (out of Essex High), John Koerner (from Champlain Valley Union) and another Essex athlete (Geoff Greig) were key components for one of the most successful programs in New England. Christensen thwarted the opponents' attacks, while Koerner and Greig fueled the offense. All three are members of the UVM Athletic Hall of Fame.

The son of recently retired physical education instructor, Charlie Christensen, was the best fullback in New England, as attested by his many post-season honors, high-lighted by his first-team All America selection after his junior season in 1976.
In addition to being elected to the All-Yankee Conference squad for four consecutive seasons, Christensen was also picked for the All-New England team three straight years (1975-77).

Christensen, Greig and Koerner were the leaders on the Vermont teams that compiled a 39-13-4 record from 1974 to 1977 and played in two NCAA Tournaments in the New England Region. Following his senior season, Christensen and classmate Greig received the Harold A. Greig Award, "presented to that person, who, in the opinion of his teammates, through his desire, hustle and love of the game has done the most for the University of Vermont's soccer program." Hal Greig was Vermont's first soccer coach and the father of Geoff Greig. It also is ironic that Hal Greig and Charles Christensen, fathers of Carl and Geoff, are also in the UVM Athletic Hall of Fame.

Christensen played three seasons of professional soccer with the Dallas Tornado and the San Jose Earthquakes of the North American Soccer League (the highest pro league in the US at the time) and the Wichita Wings of the MISL.

Following his pro experience, Christensen assisted with the Vermont varsity for two seasons (1981 and 1982) and was the indoor club team coach (1981-82).
Sports Illustrated selected Christensen as one of the Top 50 Vermont athletes of the 20th Century. The magazine's editors composed a list of the "Top 50 Athletes" in each state in its December 27, 1999 issue to commemorate the millennium. Christensen ranked 28th among the Top 50 Vermonters.