Michael Parkhurst (2020) - Wake Forest Sports Hall of Fame

Michael Parkhurst

Induction:
2020

Michael Parkhurst was voted into the Hall of Fame in 2016 but delayed his induction while continuing his career in Major League Soccer. Parkhurst was a three-time All-ACC honoree from 2002-04 and earned All-America honors in 2004. Considered one of Wake Forest’s greatest defensive players, Parkhurst was the ACC Defensive Player of the Year in 2004 and a two-time ACC All-Tournament pick. His defense helped contribute to a then-school record 11 shutouts in 2002. His long professional career began with being named the MLS Rookie of the Year in 2005 and continued with his recognition as the Defender of the Year in the league in 2007. A member of the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics soccer team, he made 25 starts for the U.S. Men’s National Team during his career. MLS honored Parkhurst as its Humanitarian of the Year in 2006 and 2008. His professional career included stints in Europe and in the MLS as he served as captain of both the Columbus Crew and Atlanta United FC. He retired following the 2019 MLS season.