As a former pilot and astronaut, entrepreneur Ron Garan knows firsthand the kind of character and fortitude it takes to literally reach the highest of heights.

He sees many of the same qualities in Hope Solo.

Garan knows Hope from their work together for One Young World, described as “the preeminent global forum for young leaders aged 18-30.” In his official endorsement of Hope for the presidency of U.S. Soccer, he outlined why she would make a superb leader.

January 10th 2018

To Whom It May Concern

RE: Hope Solo Recommendation for President of the United States Soccer Federation

Dear Selection Committee:

This letter recommends Hope Solo for the position of President of the United States Soccer Federation. I have known Hope for the past two years and have worked with her on the One Young World program. One Young World is an international youth leadership program that brings together young leaders from literally every country in the world. The goal of the program is to inspire in these young leaders collective action toward solving the most pressing and seemingly intractable problems facing our world.

Through the One Young World program, I have witnessed firsthand, Hope’s extraordinary leadership qualities. She has the innate ability to inspire and motivate positive action. Her fearless dedication to the ideals of equality, justice and diversity will serve her well as the President of US Soccer. She has the ability to see straight to the heart of a problem and has the courage and tenacity to initiate real lasting solutions—not Band Aid fixes.

During my time as a US Air Force Test Pilot, NASA Astronaut and now as a test pilot in the commercial spaceflight industry I have met some extraordinary leaders. Hope is among the very best I’ve ever met. At One Young World she served not only as a mentor for young leaders but also a powerful advocate for important causes. I see her being that same strong advocate for the values and goals of US Soccer.

Hope is the perfect person to increase US soccer viewership, grow the fan base, address issues of inequality and discrimination, and raise the overall level of play by revolutionizing youth soccer clubs and programs. I have the highest confidence that Hope will do all this with an unmatched level of transparency and openness.

Hope has too many incredible attributes to list in a short recommendation, but I would be happy to discuss Hope’s talents, motivations and accomplishments by phone. Hope has my highest recommendation for selection as the next President of the US Soccer Federation.

Ron Garan, Col., USAF (Ret)
Former NASA Astronaut
Chief Pilot, World View Enterprises

Download a copy of Garan’s endorsement letter.