New England soccer community mourns passing of Paul Mariner

Paul Mariner coached Toronto FC in 2012 and was a longtime Revs broadcaster. (Alex Trautwig/Getty Images)

Former New England Revolution assistant coach and broadcaster Paul Mariner passed away Friday at age 68 after battling brain cancer, his family announced in a Twitter post.

Tributes came pouring in on social media to mourn the loss of the former Toronto FC head coach and beloved member of the global soccer community, including from the Revs, who released a statement: “The New England Revolution are deeply saddened by the news today regarding the death of Paul Mariner. An incredible player, coach and broadcaster, Paul’s unwavering kindness and good humor left an indelible mark on all who knew him, and his Revolution family will remember him best as a beloved friend. Our thoughts are with the Mariner family at this difficult time.”

Mariner worked in New England under ex-head coach Steve Nicol, leading to several MLS Cup trips and U.S. Open Cup (2007) and SuperLiga (2008) titles during their tenure. He also briefly led Toronto FC during the 2012 campaign, then worked extensively in broadcasting alongside longtime Revolution play-by-play commentator Brad Feldman. Before managing the Reds, he joined as their director of player development in January 2011.

A standout striker, Mariner played for England internationally between 1977 and 1985, scoring 13 goals and representing the Three Lions at the 1980 European Championships and the 1982 World Cup. During his club career, he spent time at Plymouth Argyle, Arsenal, Ipswich Town, Portsmouth and Wollongong City. He lifted the UEFA Cup and FA Cup during an eight-year spell at Ipswich, scoring 139 goals in 339 games for the club.

“Major League Soccer mourns the passing of Paul Mariner — a legend on the field, a sharp soccer mind, and a talented broadcaster,” read a statement from MLS commissioner Don Garber. “Paul was a joy to be around and a terrific friend to so many across the league. He will be deeply missed. Our condolences to Paul’s family and loved ones.”

Revolution president Brian Bilello said in a tweet: “A massive loss for all of us who had the privilege of knowing Paul. Anyone who ever interacted with him always had a good word to say. Your day was always brighter after spending time with Paul.”

Feldman, the play-by-play voice of the Revs, tweeted a statement: “Rest In Peace, Paul Mariner. Football hero, giant personality, heart of a champion, and also just a great guy. My partner in the booth for 6+ years, road game companion for more than double that time, I’ll miss him terribly.”

Former Revs player and current ESPN broadcaster Taylor Twellman tweeted: “I feel so fortunate to call him a friend and most importantly knowing his pain is gone.”

Current Revs analyst Charlie Davies (Manchester, N.H.) tweeted: “Paul coached me as a youth, mentored me throughout my life, and was a true friend. I have a tremendous amount of respect for what he brought to the game but more importantly his ability to always lift a room.”