Top 12 Indoor Soccer Hall of Famers
From professional leagues like the MASL to youth tournaments across the United States, indoor soccer continues to grow rapidly due to some of the top indoor soccer players who’ve worked hard to master indoor soccer skills after investing their time and efforts.
They have given their best and also practiced after hours to have the best possible outcome and they are now being discussed as some of the top indoor soccer players.
Indoor soccer also utilizes unique strategies like the two-point line and setting picks on offense. Many of the world’s best soccer players like Ronaldinho, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Lionel Messi grew up improving their skills on indoor soccer surfaces.
I have collected information from different sources and presented the info of the top 12 indoor soccer players from the world playing in the US. From crafty midfielders to agile goalkeepers, these indoor stars dominate with their skills, ball control, technique, physicality, and unmatched passion for the game.
They’ve won countless trophies, led teams to championships, and inspired generations of young athletes. While their backgrounds and styles vary, the common thing in them is that they’re masters of indoor soccer with unique skills that are God-gifted and later polished.
So lace up your cleats and join us as we highlight the legends leading indoor soccer into the future.
List of Top 12 Indoor Soccer Players
| 1. Franck Tayou |
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| 2. Ian Bennet |
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| 3. Lucas Roque |
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| 4. Chris Toth |
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| 5. John Sosa |
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| 6. Will Johnson |
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| 7. Sumed Ibrahim |
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| 8. Rob Ukrop |
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| 9. Erik Rasmussen |
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| 10. Kwame Sarkodie |
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| 11. Rick Blubaugh |
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| 12. John Barry Nusum |
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Franck Tayou – The Legend
| Franck Tayou’s Career |
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| Clubs: Harrisburg Heat, Philadelphia Kixx, Ontario Fury, Soles de Sonora, Milwaukee Wave, Utica City FC |
| Achievements: |
| – 4x MASL MVP |
| – 4x MASL Champion |
| – 5x MASL Scoring Champion |
| Highlights: |
| – 363 goals in 173 indoor games |
| – One of the greatest indoor scorers ever |
Without a doubt, Cameroonian striker Franck Tayou is the most legendary active indoor soccer player today. Since making his professional debut in 2012, Tayou has crafted a reputation as one of the most prolific goal scorers the sport has ever seen.
Across his illustrious 11-year career, the superstar forward has racked up a staggering 999 shots on goal and found the back of the indoor soccer net 363 times.
Tayou’s uncanny scoring ability has earned him the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award an incredible 4 times, in the 2015-16, 2016-17, 2017-18, and 2019-20 MASL seasons. He has been instrumental in leading his teams to championships in the 2015-16, 2016-17, 2017-18, and 2019-20 MASL campaigns.
This season, Tayou is leading the MASL scoreboards once again with 38 points and 28 goals in indoor soccer while featuring for the Empire Strykers.
Beyond his excellence in the field, Tayou is also admired for his humanitarian efforts and work with orphans, for which he received the MASL’s Ed Tepper Humanitarian of the Year Award in 2018-19.
Without question, Franck Tayou is the most accomplished and iconic active indoor soccer player today. At 32 years old, the legend shows no signs of slowing down.
Ian Bennet – The Veteran Champ
| Ian Bennet’s Career |
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| Clubs: Rochester Rhinos, Milwaukee Wave, Florida Tropics |
| Achievements: |
| – 2x MASL MVP |
| – MASL All-Star |
| – 3x MASL Champion |
| Highlights: |
| – 442 career points |
| – 362 career goals |
| – 40 game goal streak |
With 15 years of professional indoor soccer experience under his belt, Canadian striker Ian Bennett has proven himself to be one of the very best players the game has seen. Since embarking on his pro career in 2009 with the Milwaukee Wave, Bennett has showcased world-class technique, intelligence, and finishing ability.
The veteran champ has been instrumental in leading the Milwaukee Wave to numerous championships, including the 2018-19 MASL crown.
On loan to the Florida Tropics in 2020-21, Bennett helped guide them to a MASL championship as well. For his consistent excellence, he has been awarded the MASL MVP award twice, in 2020-21 and 2021-22.
Remarkably consistent throughout his career, Bennett holds the second-highest marks on the career leaderboard across multiple categories, including games played, points, and goals, trailing only the legendary Franck Tayou.
With 172 career games under his belt along with 442 career points and 362 career goals, Ian Bennett has cemented his legacy as one of the greatest indoor soccer players of all time and was also called a goal-scoring machine.
Lucas Roque – The Rising Star
| Lucas Roque’s Career |
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| Clubs: Baltimore Blast, Florida Tropics |
| Achievements: |
| – 3x MASL Champion |
| – MASL All-Star |
| Highlights: |
| – 124 goals in 104 games with Baltimore Blast |
| – Broke out with 39 points, 26 goals in 2020-21 |
| – Young superstar on the rise |
At just 25 years old, Brazilian sensation Lucas Roque has emerged as the brightest rising star in indoor soccer. After joining the Baltimore Blast in 2014, Roque has rapidly developed into an indispensable contributor thanks to his crafty playmaking skills and a keen eye for goals.
Roque has been a key piece in Baltimore’s recent run of success, helping the club win MASL championships in 2016, 2017, and 2018. After a steady first few seasons, the talented young forward truly broke out in 2020-21, shattering his previous stats by recording 39 points and 26 goals.
Roque is lighting up scoresheets across the league, already racking up 34 points and as many goals. With his best years still ahead, Lucas Roque looks poised to become the future face of indoor soccer. His jaw-dropping skills and affable personality make him one of the most exciting and likable rising talents in indoor soccer.
Chris Toth – The Wall
| Chris Toth’s Career |
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| Clubs: Ontario Fury, San Diego Sockers, Tacoma Stars, Empire SF |
| Achievements: |
| – 4x MASL Goalkeeper of the Year |
| – 2x MASL Champion |
| Highlights: |
| – 83 career wins as goalkeeper |
| – 1761 career saves, 2nd all-time |
| – 0.815 save % in 2016-17 season |
The last line of defense for the Empire Strykers, goalkeeper Chris Toth makes invading attackers wish they stayed on the bench. With an astounding 1,761 career saves to his name, the 33-year-old from San Diego has proven to be one of the best goalies in indoor soccer history.
Relying on quick reflexes, excellent positioning in indoor soccer, brave shot-stopping, and vocal leadership, Toth is a fortress in goal. His finest season came in 2016-17 when he finished with a staggering .815 save percentage for the Strykers.
Now a veteran presence, Toth has been instrumental to the club’s success thanks to his ability to single-handedly win games by standing firmly between the sticks and guarding the post.
Already off to a hot start this season, Toth is tops in the league with 10 wins, 188 saves, and a .758 save percentage. With Toth patrolling the goalmouth, opposing strikers should simply turn and go home. There are few keepers more intimidating than the Strykers’ human wall.
John Sosa – The Offensive Ace
| John Sosa’s Career |
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| Clubs: Missouri Comets, San Diego Sockers |
| Achievements: |
| – 2013-14 MISL Defender of the Year |
| – Helped Comets win 2013-14 MISL championship |
| Highlights: |
| – 163 career games played |
| – 165 career assists and blocks |
| – Leading defender and scorer |
Hailing from Colombia, defender John Sosa has been a staple of the Missouri Comets backline since 2011 thanks to his silky skills and penchant for joining the attack. The 33-year-old’s unique flair and understanding of the game have made him one of the most effective two-way threats in indoor soccer.
Though known for his defending, Sosa has tallied an astounding 165 assists and 165 blocks throughout his career, showcasing his ability to impact both ends of the floor. He helped lead the Comets to the MISL championship in 2013-14 and were finalists in 2011-12 and 2012-13 thanks to his well-rounded play.
Already off to a terrific start, Sosa tops the league with 15 assists, 25 points, and 10 blocked shots. His rare blend of offensive creativity and lockdown defending make the Colombian one of the most complete players in indoor soccer today. He is without a doubt a 2 way force defensive as well as offensive.
Will Johnson – Mr. Versatile
| Will Johnson’s Career |
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| Clubs: Chicago Fire, Real Salt Lake, Portland Timbers, Toronto FC, Orlando City |
| Achievements: |
| – 2009 MLS Cup champion with Real Salt Lake |
| – 2013 MLS All-Star |
| Highlights: |
| – 45 caps, 4 goals for Canada |
| – Named captain of Portland in 2013 |
Throughout his 16-year career as a professional and 45 caps with the Canadian national team, Will Johnson has made his mark as one of the most versatile two-way players in the indoor game.
The current Orlando City SC captain can play anywhere in midfield or defense and is valued for his top-class technique, vision, work rate, and leadership.
The Toronto native has won silverware everywhere he’s gone, capturing the MLS Cup with Real Salt Lake in 2009, leading Portland to two playoff runs, and captaining Orlando City over the past 5 seasons.
For Canada, he’s featured in two Gold Cups and helped them qualify for the 2022 World Cup.
On and off the field, Johnson’s commitment, skill set, and winning pedigree make him one of the most well-rounded and respected veterans in the indoor game today. His ability to slot in anywhere on the pitch makes him an invaluable player for his team.
Sumed Ibrahim – The Playmaker
| Sumed Ibrahim’s Career |
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| Clubs: Chicago Fire, Harrisburg City Islanders |
| Achievements: |
| – 2x NSCAA First Team All-American at Maryland |
| Highlights: |
| – Drafted 20th overall by Chicago Fire in 2004 |
| – 33 games for Harrisburg City Islanders |
Though his professional career was short, former University of Maryland midfielder Sumed Ibrahim left a lasting legacy thanks to his silky smooth playmaking abilities. Starring for the Terrapins from 1999 to 2004, the Ghanaian creative maestro racked up 25 goals and 28 assists while earning All-American honors.
After guiding Maryland to a College Cup semifinal run, Ibrahim was a finalist for the prestigious Hermann Trophy in 2004. His vision, passing range, dribbling skills, and set-piece ability made him a human highlight reel during his NCAA career.
After being drafted by the Chicago Fire in 2004, Ibrahim played briefly in MLS and USL. Though he retired prematurely due to injuries, Ibrahim’s flair and passing genius helped inspire the next generation of creative indoor players.
Rob Ukrop – The Local Talent
| Rob Ukrop’s Career |
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| Clubs: Richmond Kickers, Baltimore Spirit, Raleigh Flyers |
| Achievements: |
| – 1995 U.S. Open Cup MVP |
| – Richmond Kickers career leader in goals, assists, points |
| Highlights: |
| – Helped Richmond Kickers win 1995 USISL championship |
| – Named to Richmond Kickers Hall of Fame |
Local soccer legends can be instrumental in growing the game in their communities. For indoor soccer in Richmond, Virginia, that figure is Rob Ukrop. The talented forward starred for the Richmond Kickers from 1993 to 2004, leading them to the USISL championship and U.S. Open Cup title in 1995 while earning All-Star honors.
Ukrop became synonymous with soccer in Richmond, helping popularize and grow the sport locally. He still holds club records for goals (70), assists (30), and points (170). Ukrop proved that hometown heroes could compete and thrive in the indoor leagues. His decade as Richmond’s go-to striker made him a local icon.
In 2004, Ukrop’s contributions were immortalized when Richmond retired his number 6 jersey and inducted the star forward into their Hall of Fame. For his accomplishments and ambassadorship, Rob Ukrop remains an integral figure in Richmond’s soccer history.
Erik Rasmussen – The Import
| Erik Rasmussen’s Career |
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| Clubs: Køge, Herfølge, Wichita Wings, Frem, Brøndby, Helsingør, Baltimore Blast |
| Achievements: |
| – 1988 MISL MVP |
| – 4x MISL Champion with Wichita Wings |
| Highlights: |
| – 246 career goals in indoor leagues |
| – Nicknamed “The Wizard” for creativity on ball |
Indoor soccer benefitted tremendously from the influx of creative foreign talents in the 1980s and 1990s. One influential import was Danish wizard Erik Rasmussen, who brought showmanship and skill to the MISL’s Wichita Wings from 1984 to 1989. Nicknamed “The Wizard”, Rasmussen dazzled fans with his silky dribbling, slick passing, and uncanny scoring, racking up 246 goals.
The Danish dynamo’s fancy footwork and European flair made him a fan favorite while helping lead Wichita to multiple championships. He was a First Team All-Star and league MVP in the 1988 season after driving the Wings to a league title. Rasmussen won 4 MISL crowns with Wichita across his 5 seasons.
Erik Rasmussen embodied the creative playmaking important player that drove interest, excitement, and growth in the nascent indoor leagues. His magic truly brought a new style to the game that influenced many future generations.
Kwame Sarkodie – The Coach
| Kwame Sarkodie’s Career |
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| Clubs: Cincinnati Kings, Cleveland City Stars, Rochester Rhinos |
| Achievements: |
| – 2008 USL Second Division Champion with Cleveland City Stars |
| – 24 appearances for Rochester Rhinos in USL First Division |
| Highlights: |
| – Standout college career at University of Cincinnati |
| – Went on to successful coaching career after playing |
After starring as a midfielder at the University of Cincinnati and winning a USL-2 championship with Cleveland City Stars in 2008, Kwame Sarkodie pivoted into a successful coaching career focused on developing youth. The Ohio native became an assistant coach at the University of Illinois-Chicago and also coached club soccer in the Chicago area.
Through his playing experience and tactical knowledge, Sarkodie made a profound impact in guiding young athletes on and off the field. His passion for coaching helped build the next wave of midfield talents coming through the ranks in Chicago and the Midwest region. Sarkodie demonstrated how former players can stay involved as teachers to affect lasting change in the indoor game.
Rick Blubaugh – The All-Arounder
| Rick Blubaugh’s Career |
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| Clubs: F.C. Seattle, Tacoma Stars, Seattle SeaDogs |
| Achievements: |
| – 1988-89 MISL Champion with Tacoma Stars |
| – Standout college career at University of Washington |
| Highlights: |
| – Strong defender and midfielder |
| – Great vision, passing, and finishing |
Defender Rick Blubaugh’s versatility and well-rounded game made him a valuable contributor at all levels of indoor soccer. Coming up through Washington youth clubs and college soccer at UW, Blubaugh went on to excel for storied teams like F.C. Seattle, Tacoma Stars, and Seattle SeaDogs in the 1980s and 1990s professional leagues.
Fiercely competitive and tactically intelligent, Blubaugh could impact games from the backline or midfield through rugged defending, pinpoint passing, timely goals, and sheer will to win. His completeness as a player and understanding of both sides of the game enabled him to shine across the various incarnations of indoor leagues.
John Barry Nusum – The Journeyman
| John Barry Nusum’s Career |
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| Clubs: Atlanta Silverbacks, Toronto Lynx, Virginia Beach Mariners, Bermuda Hogges, Crystal Palace Baltimore |
| Achievements: |
| – Bermuda’s all-time leading scorer with 19 goals |
| – Played for 11 professional clubs over 15 year career |
| Highlights: |
| – Starred at Furman University |
| – Persevered despite constant team changes |
In a career spanning 15 years and 11 clubs, forward John Barry Nusum came to define the perseverant journeyman indoor player. From the A-League to MLS and even stops in Europe, Nusum plied his trade anywhere that offered a contract. Despite the constant movement, he managed to thrive, becoming Bermuda’s all-time leading scorer with 19 goals.
Featuring the likes of Atlanta Silverbacks, Toronto Lynx, and Crystal Palace Baltimore, Nusum adapted his game to each unique situation. His one constant was finding the back of the net. The New York native’s perseverance and scoring exploits made him a respected indoor soccer globetrotter. Nusum’s long and winding road personified the challenging journey of carving out a career as a professional indoor player.
Conclusion of Top Indoor Soccer Players
Indoor soccer continues to grow at a rapid pace, from indoor soccer youth leagues to professional circuits across the globe. As seen by profiling these 12 superstar players, the level of competition and excitement in indoor soccer rivals that of any sport.
Players must utilize ultimate fitness, skill, strategy, and intelligence to succeed on the condensed playing surface. The stars showcased here have proven themselves through sustained greatness across many demanding seasons.
Their diversity of strengths and styles serves as an inspiration for all aspiring indoor soccer players. Whether you prefer becoming a human wall-in goal like Chris Toth, an offensive wizard like Erik Rasmussen, or a local ambassador growing the game like Rob Ukrop, there are many paths to excel at this truly exciting sport.
As indoor soccer shoes and equipment continue improving, the game will only get faster and more skillful. Leagues like the MASL provide a platform for the next Franck Tayou or Ian Bennet to announce themselves to the world.
Be sure to check your local area for indoor soccer leagues and open gyms to experience the fast-paced game yourself. The passion and community surrounding indoor soccer are unparalleled. So get out on the court with your excellent Indoor Soccer Shoes and see if you can master juggling the indoor soccer ball on the walls of an indoor soccer field.
Remember to play safely by following the unique rules of indoor soccer, like substituting on the fly and the blue card ejection system. The future is bright for one of the most entertaining games in the world indoor soccer.