Brian Mullan

Five-time MLS Cup winner known for his work rate and hustle.

Brian Mullan (born April 23, 1978) is an American former professional soccer player. He played for the Los Angeles Galaxy, San Jose Earthquakes, Houston Dynamo, and Colorado Rapids in Major League Soccer. He won five MLS Cups, two Supporters' Shields, and one U.S. Open Cup during his career. He is one of only four players to have won MLS Cup five or more times. He also won four caps for the United States between 2004 and 2007. Not a flashy player, Mullan was known for his work rate, hustle, and determination on the field.

Quick Facts

Born: 23 April 1978
Birthplace: Mineola, New York, United States
Position: Midfielder
Total caps: 323
Total goals: 29

Lore & Background

Mullan was born in Mineola, New York, but his family moved to Littleton, Colorado, when he was young. He played hockey growing up before deciding to focus on soccer full time. He attended Regis Jesuit High School in Aurora, Colorado, leading them to a Colorado 4A Boys Soccer State Championship in 1995 and a 5A State Championship in 1996. In the 5A title game, he scored a hat-trick and had one assist. He was named a 1996 NSCAA/Umbro High School Boys All-American and the 1996 NSCAA/Umbro Colorado Player of the Year. He played college soccer at Creighton University from 1997 to 2000, leading the Bluejays to Missouri Valley Conference Men's Soccer Tournament titles in 1997, 1998, and 2000, and being named Tournament MVP in 2000. He helped Creighton reach the NCAA Division I Men's Soccer Tournament final. His college honors include NSCAA All-America Second Team in 2000, NCAA College Cup All-Tournament Team in 2000, and multiple All-Conference selections. He ranks 6th in all-time goals, 4th in assists, and 4th in appearances for Creighton. In 2008, he was selected to the Creighton Athletics Hall of Fame. While in college, he played for the Wisconsin Rebels in 1999 and the Colorado Comets in the Premier Development League.

Reader's Guide

Mullan was drafted 9th overall by the Los Angeles Galaxy in the 2001 MLS SuperDraft. He missed the start of the season due to knee surgery, made his debut on April 21, and scored his first two goals on May 9. He underwent ankle surgery on July 24 and missed the remainder of the regular season. He returned for the playoffs and appeared in MLS Cup 2001, where LA lost to San Jose. He helped LA win the 2001 U.S. Open Cup. In 2002, he scored 3 goals and 2 assists in 21 appearances, helping the Galaxy win the Supporters' Shield and MLS Cup 2002. He was traded to San Jose Earthquakes on January 17, 2003. In 2003, he scored 6 goals and 9 assists in 30 starts, helping San Jose win MLS Cup 2003. In 2004, he had 3 goals and 8 assists in 28 starts. In 2005, he had 3 goals and 6 assists in 25 appearances, helping San Jose win the Supporters' Shield. The Earthquakes franchise moved to Houston and became the Houston Dynamo ahead of the 2006 season. In 2006, Mullan had 2 goals and 4 assists in 31 appearances, helping Houston reach MLS Cup 2006.