Joseph Greenspan

  • Years with club: 2017
  • Position: Centre-Back / Defender
  • Nationality: American
  • Acquisition: Traded from Colorado Rapids on December 11, 2016

Joseph “Joe” Greenspan is an American defender who was part of Minnesota United FC’s inaugural Major League Soccer (MLS) season in 2017. A tall, athletic center-back (6’6″ or 1.98m), Greenspan was acquired to strengthen the team’s central defense. His career was notable for his commitment to the U.S. Navy Reserve, which he balanced with his professional soccer career.

Key stats with Minnesota United (MLS):

  • MLS regular season appearances: 3
  • Total minutes played: 222
  • Acquisition: Acquired in exchange for Minnesota’s 2017 Natural Third Round SuperDraft pick.
  • Departure: Released at the end of the 2017 season when his option was declined.

Memorable moments:

  • Military service: Greenspan graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and was an active member of the U.S. Navy, becoming the first soccer player to compete professionally in MLS while also serving in the Navy Reserve. He balanced his early professional career around his military duties, including time aboard a Navy destroyer and later in a recruiting role in Denver.
  • College honors: He was a highly decorated college player at Navy, earning All-American honors and leading the team to their first NCAA tournament win in 42 years in 2013. He was also a MAC Hermann Trophy semifinalist.
  • Injury setbacks: His time in Minnesota was affected by injuries, including two concussions during the season.

Where is he now?:

  • After leaving Minnesota United, Greenspan played for Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC (2018–2019), where he was named the USL Championship Defender of the Year in 2019.
  • He then joined San Diego Loyal SC for their inaugural season in 2020.
  • Greenspan officially retired from professional soccer on December 1, 2020.
  • He continues to be an active member of the U.S. Navy Reserve, serving as a public affairs officer in San Diego as of August 2020.