About
Chris Houser
Houser resides in Scottsdale, Arizona, with his wife Andrea, a Hall of Fame gymnast, and their three children: Lola, Julian, and Cian. In addition to his extensive involvement in soccer, Houser has also pursued a career in medical sales. His contributions to the sport were recognized in 2007 when he was inducted into the South Dakota Soccer Hall of Fame.
Early Life and College Career
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Houser grew up in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. At age eight, he moved with his family to Germany, where he began playing soccer. After returning to Sioux Falls, he attended Southern Connecticut State University, where he played from 1995 -1997. In 1995, he helped lead the Owls to the NCAA Division II National Championship and earned MVP honors in the Final Four tournament. He was also a three-time All-Conference selection and the conference's Rookie of the Year. Additionally, Houser was a member of the U.S. Men's National Team from 1994 to 1997, serving as team captain and winning a bronze medal at the 1997 World University Games.
Playing and Coaching Career
Professional Playing Career In 1998, Houser was selected 19th overall in the MLS College Draft by the Tampa Bay Mutiny. He played five seasons with the Mutiny, earning a nomination for Rookie of the Year and ranking among the top defenders in MLS.
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After retiring from professional soccer, Houser served as an assistant coach at Southern Connecticut State University from 2001 to 2003 and as an MLS Advisor/youth coaching consultant from 2004 to 2010. In 2010, he founded FCDevelopment, LLC assisting student-athletes in the collegiate recruitment process. In March 2022, Houser was appointed as the head coach of the Yavapai College men's soccer team, leading them to a 23-16-3 record over three seasons. Under his guidance, the team reached the Region One Championship game in each year. Houser resigned from his position in December 2024.
