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Akers honored as best ever
BEVERLY HILLS, California (AP) -- Michelle Akers, who retired last summer as the leading scorer for the U.S. National Team, was honored Monday by Futbol de Primera as the best female soccer player ever. Akers, 34, scored 105 goals in 153 games during her 15-year career as a forward/midfielder. A dislocated shoulder -- the last of the many injuries Akers sustained in her sport -- and her longtime battle with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome prompted her to retire before the 2000 Olympics. "This is probably the most deserved recognition that any player could receive," said Alex Gutman, co-chairman of Futbol de America. "With all respect to the other fine women soccer players in the history of the game, there is a large gap between Michelle and the rest. For those who know soccer, this is obvious." A member of women's World Cup championship teams in 1991 and 1999 and the gold medal-winning U.S. Olympic team in 1996, Akers is one of only four women to score over 100 career goals in international play. As part of the ceremony at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, Futbol de America and the American Honda Motor Company presented a check for US$5,000 to Akers' foundation, Soccer Outreach International. "This award is an exceptional honor and I am extremely appreciative and grateful for the recognition," Akers said. "I must also say this would not have been possible had it not been for the incredible support, investment, and encouragement from a lot of people -- my team, doctors, physical therapists, friends, and, of course, my family."
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