Bob Kehoe

When discussing the history of soccer in the United States, the name Artie Wachter must be included. Through his lifelong participation in the sport, first as a player, then a coach, referee, instructor, and camp director, he played a significant role in popularizing soccer to the level it is today in this country.

Growing up on the tough streets of New York City in the 1930s, Artie quickly formed a passion for all sports, which continues even today, as he continues to still play league softball.

But soccer always remained at the forefront for decades. During his career, Artie was a professional referee with the North American Soccer League and the Major Indoor Soccer League.

Together with his wife Dixie, their acclaimed Rocky Mountain Soccer Camp in Colorado taught advanced skills to thousands of young players.

Artie’s many accolades include being inducted into the Colorado Soccer Hall of Fame and the USASA Hall of Fame.

Artie and Dixie resided in the Sun Lakes community from 1994 through 2000, and both were very active in a number of activities. Dixie served as the activities director and was an active member of the Sun Lakes Ladies Softball Team.

Artie enjoyed his participation in the stage shows produced by the Sun Lakes theatre group, hosted a regular sports broadcast on local cable television, coached the Dairy Queen Ladies Softball Team, and played on the men’s softball team.

In 2014 the Wachters moved to the Robson Ranch community in Eloy, Ariz., and continued their participation in tennis, pickleball, and softball. Today they have cut back a bit, but Artie still competes in men’s softball, along with being a game announcer.

Copies of his autobiography may be purchased ($20 each plus shipping and tax) through the Amazon bookstore. Simply go to Amazon.com and type in “Bob Kehoe” in the search window, which will take you to my book page and Artie’s book.