Jeff Parke was been given many labels throughout his career:
Ironman
Unsung Hero
Defender of the Year
National Champion
U.S. International
Hall of Famer
But the name that carried the most weight during the dawn of his professional career—Mr. Irrelevant.
Following Parke’s illustrious career at Drexel, the New York Red Bulls, then Metrostars, took the Downingtown High School graduate and Abington, Pa. native with the final pick of the 2004 MLS Super Draft. He later wore number 60 as a reminder of the hard work it took to become Mr. Relevant.
The 11-year pro ranks second in MLS appearances among Philadelphia-area players with 267, including playoffs, trailing only fellow FC Delco alum Jeff Larentowicz, who is second all-time in the league among field players.