Jose Vidal
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Sport:
Soccer |
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Year
Graduated: 1984 |
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Year
Inducted: 1997 |
In a tragically brief two-year career, Jose "Sheche"
Vidal developed a reputation as one of the nation's finest
collegiate soccer players.
Entering Boston University as a sophomore in 1981, Vidal
quickly guided the Terriers to a 9-6-3 record. Among the wins
was a 2-1 triumph over Boston College in the finals of the
ECAC Tournament. Although primarily a defensive specialist,
he contributed a goal and three assists for five points. In
recognition of his efforts, Vidal received Third Team All-America
and First Team All-New England selection, and Team and Greater
Boston League MVP honors.
After suffering a serious knee injury, Vidal was sidelined
for the duration of the 1982 campaign, and his value to the
team was demonstrated in is absence. Boston University, the
defending ECAC champion, struggled to a 6-8-2 ledger.
Vidal never fully recovered, but he regained enough strength
to appear in 18 games as a senior. He anchored a Terrier defense
which blanked 10 foes, and led them to a 10-4-5 mark.
A consensus all-star selection, Vidal finished third in balloting
for the Herman Trophy, which is presented anually to the nation's
outstanding college player. In addition, he received First
Team MVP accolades.
He demonstrated similar skill in the classroom, where, in
just three years at Boston University, he received his Master's
Degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Vidal's accomplishments at Boston University added to an
already impressive resume. From 1977-81, he was a member of
the Venezuelan Olympic Soccer Team. In 1979, he was the National
Soccer Player of the Year and in 1980, he was the National
Athlete of the Year.
