Date of Decision: MAY 8, 2019
Service Center: Nebraska Service Center
Form Type: Form I-140
Case Type: EB1 Extraordinary Ability
Petitioner Information
Profession: Soccer Coach
Field: Athletics
Nationality: German
Summary of Decision
Initial Decision: Denied
Appeal Outcome: Denied
Evidentiary Criteria Analysis
Criteria Met:
- Published material about the petitioner: The record supports that the petitioner met this criterion by offering a 2014 article from Suddeutsche Zeitung discussing his competitive successes as a soccer player and coach.
- Leading or critical role: The petitioner has demonstrated a leading or critical role as an assistant coach for teams that ranked highly in their leagues during his tenure.
Criteria Not Met:
- Nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence: The record does not show that the petitioner satisfied this criterion as claimed.
- Membership in associations requiring outstanding achievements: The evidence provided was insufficient to prove that the petitioner’s involvement in soccer leagues and teams constitutes membership in associations requiring outstanding achievements.
- Original contributions of major significance: The evidence did not establish that the petitioner’s coaching methods have been of major significance in the field.
Key Points from the Decision
Leading or critical role performed: The petitioner’s work as an assistant coach for teams with distinguished reputations and successful standings was acknowledged.
Published Materials About the Petitioner: The petitioner was featured in major German media, establishing recognition of his work in soccer both as a player and a coach.
Supporting Documentation
- Reference Letters: Various letters from soccer players and coaches highlighted the petitioner’s effective coaching methods and contributions to team performance.
- Media Articles: Articles from major newspapers like Suddeutsche Zeitung and references from BBC News and New York Times confirmed the prominence of the media that featured the petitioner.
Conclusion
Final Determination: The appeal is dismissed as the petitioner did not meet the required number of criteria for classification as an individual of extraordinary ability in athletics.
Reasoning: Despite meeting some criteria, the petitioner’s overall evidence was insufficient to prove extraordinary ability according to USCIS standards.
Next Steps: It is recommended that the petitioner gathers more substantial evidence of major achievements and recognition in the field if considering reapplication.
