Following a warm welcome from Director of Advancement Marty Jennings '98, Berhalter, who enjoyed a distinguished 18-year professional playing career in Europe and Major League Soccer before becoming head coach of the U.S. Men's National Team and now the Chicago Fire, spoke candidly about his journey—from his early days in New Jersey, to competing in the World Cup, to the lessons of leadership and resilience he carries into coaching today.

One of the standout moments came when Berhalter described the challenges of bouncing back after professional setbacks, including being left off the 2002 World Cup roster. “Adversity is part of the game and part of life,” he said. “What matters is how you respond. If you stay focused, work hard, and believe in yourself, those tough moments can be the ones that define you.”

He also reflected on what it means to lead at the highest level, reminding Loyola student-athletes that success is about more than technical skill. “When you step onto the field, you represent your team, your family, and your school. Leadership is about lifting up the people around you so that together you can achieve something greater than yourself.”

Moderating the conversation was Dylan Remick '09, a Loyola Academy Hall of Famer and former MLS player, who guided the discussion through Berhalter's playing and coaching career while drawing out lessons for Loyola's student-athletes. At one point, Remick highlighted Loyola's tradition of producing strong leaders on and off the field: “What struck me in Gregg's story is that the values he talks about—discipline, resilience, humility—are the same values we emphasize here at Loyola. That's what makes soccer such a powerful teacher.”

The evening also highlighted Loyola's strong soccer tradition and its remarkable alumni network. Attendees included alumni and friends whose professional paths continue to shape the game on local, national, and global levels.

This special event was made possible thanks to the generosity of Loyola Academy families Kristin and Jason Baine '92, P '24, '26, '27; Kate and Bill Drehkoff '93, P '23, '28; Missy and John Lafferty '93, P '25, '28; and Monica and Nick Robertson P '24, '27, '28. Their support brought to life a night filled with stories, strategies, and insights that will inspire Loyola's student-athletes for years to come.

As Loyola soccer players and fans left the theater, the message was clear: soccer is more than a game. It is a path to resilience, leadership, and lifelong learning—values deeply rooted in Loyola's Ignatian tradition.