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Long before FC Bellaire was born, Arash Noamouz was building a soccer career that would take him from Iran’s top professional clubs to the international stage. Born in Tehran, Arash played for PAS Tehran, one of Iran’s most accomplished teams, earned a spot on the Iranian National Team, and represented Iran at the 1992 FIFA Futsal World Championship.


In 1996, Arash became part of Major League Soccer’s inaugural season with the LA Galaxy. In the club’s very first match at the Rose Bowl, in front of more than 69,000 fans, he scored the game-winning goal and the second goal in LA Galaxy history, helping launch one of MLS’s most iconic franchises.

The entire FC Bellaire World Cup experience was inspired by Arash’s lifelong love of the game and the excitement, competition, and community that make the World Cup unlike any other sporting event in the world. When you see the excitement around The ’401 this summer, know they were inspired by someone who has lived the game from the field to the stands.

Today, Arash calls Bellaire home with his wife, Kristi, and daughters Ava and Mia. When he’s not at The ’401 or one of the Local Table restaurants, you’ll likely find him on a pickleball court with friends who have become like family. The sport may be different, but the competitive spirit remains the same.

The World Cup isn’t just something we watch at The ’401. It’s part of our story. Because Arash isn’t just one of the founders of The ’401—he’s a big part of its heart. For him, the World Cup has always been about more than what happens on the field. It’s about bringing people together, creating memories, sharing stories, and building community—something he now gets to do every day right here in Bellaire.

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