Sign up for Pre-Match Clinics

Learn to play like the Sounders, from current U-23 players and staff for a one-hour clinic prior to the match!Thanks to our amazing sponsors, Puget Sound Orthopaedics & MVP Physical Therapy, these are now an even better deal!!!

Clinics begin two hours prior to each home Sounders Women and Sounders U-23 match and are open to boy and girls, ages 6-18.

The price is $100 (NOW JUST $60 !) and includes:

• 1 hour skills clinic - (coached by Sounders players and staff)
  
• 2 match tickets - (Grandstand seats)
  
• Official Sounders scarf or U-23 shirt
  
• Special VIP Pre-Match Field Tour
• Sounders U-23 poster (for post-game signatures)
  
• Extra Prizes!
  

Clinics can be purchased for individual matches through SoundersWomen.com and SoundersU23.com ticketing pages. To purchase a clinic, click "sign up" below from either the Sounders Women or Sounders U23 and select the match of your choice:

Sounders U23 2013 Home Schedule

CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE OPTIONS OR TO BUY YOUR FAVORITE

Aodhan Quinn receives a ball between two Charlotte defenders (SoundersPhotos.com)

Charlotte, NC – The Sounders U-23 fought for 57 scoreless minutes before their professional opponents, the Charlotte Eagles were able to score three 2nd half goals to advance to Round 3 of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.  Charlotte advances to play Major League Soccer’s Chicago Fire on Wednesday, May 29th.  

The Eagle’s best first half chance came in the 6th minute Eagles midfielder Jorge Herrera created the first chance of the game as hit shot hit the post and was cleared for a throw in.

Charlotte controlled much of the possession in first 15 minutes but the Sounders U23’s held their shape well and withstood the pressure. Sergio Villasenor tested Sounders U23 goalkeeper Zac Lubin in the 25th minute with a bending shot that the goalkeeper was able to get his hands on to keep it scoreless.

The Eagles created another great chance when Christian Meza found a cutting Jorge Herrera whose cross was just knocked away from Samuel Asante who was open in front of the net in the 32nd minute.

Halftime found the teams deadlocked at 0-0.

Christian Meza took a pass from Drew Yates in the 52nd minute and ripped a shot at goalkeeper Zac Lubin but Lubin parried the shot away. In the ensuing goal-mouth scramble, Stephen Okai and Joshua Phillips would get tangled up and be pulled aside by the referee. 

The game’s first goal came from 2nd half sub Drew Yates in the 57th minute as he picked up a loose ball in the U23’s half and dribbled just inside the penalty area and ripped a shot into the bottom right corner.

Jorge Herrera converted a penalty to double the Eagles lead 2-0 after Nick Raskasky took down Samuel Asante in the penalty box in the 65th minute.  Fejiro Okiomah created the Eagles 3rd goal as he dribbled his way out of the back and crossed it to Jorge Herrera, who recorded his 2nd goal of the night, with a low shot to the right corner.

Attendance at tonight’s match was 420

The Eagles advance to the 3rd round of the US Open Cup and will host Major League Soccer’s Chicago Fire on Wednesday, May 29th at Winthrop University at 7 pm. 

Next up for the Sounders U-23 is their home opener at Curtis High School Stadium on Friday night. The Sounders will take on Narrows Bridge rival, the Kitsap Pumas at 7pm. Tickets are on sale now at SoundersU23.com.

TACOMA, Wash. – The Sounders U-23 will meet the Charlotte Eagles of the USL PRO in the 2nd Round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, Tuesday evening. The match will take place at Queens Sports Complex in Charlotte at 7:00 p.m. EST.

The Charlotte Eagles are unbeaten so far this season in USL PRO league play with a record of 3-0-3. The USL PRO league consists of 13 teams across the United States and Caribbean.

In last year’s U.S. Open Cup, The Eagles experienced a successful run all the way to the quarter finals defeating the El Paso Patriots of the PDL, FC Dallas of the MLS, and the San Antonio Scorpions of the NASL along the way. They were eventually defeated by MLS club, Chivas USA in the quarters.

In their first round match up against Doxa Italia, the Sounders U-23 scored five first half goals on their way to a 5-1 victory. Forward David Geno lit up the scoreboard notching four of the Sounders U-23’s five goals.

Since the Sounders U-23’s hot start in the U.S Open Cup, the Sounders have fallen twice in their opening two matchups of the PDL league season. Last Thursday they lost a frustrating match at the Portland Timbers U-23, 2-0, in which the Sounders out-shot and had more corner kick opportunities than their opponents. Then on Sunday afternoon they fell 4-1 to the current leaders of the Northwest Division, Victoria Highlanders FC.

Despite the slow start to their league regular season, the Sounders U-23 remain a dangerous side capable of scoring in bunches.

Head Coach, Darren Sawatzky said, “The northwest division is very competitive and playing away against two good teams this week has been a challenge.  We look forward to getting our compliment of college players in and settling our group in for the league season.”

If the Sounders U-23 can pull off the upset on Tuesday, they will advance to take on the Chicago Fire of the MLS in Chicago on May 28th. If the Eagles can hold court and defeat the Sounders, they will play the Chicago Fire at home in Charlotte on May 29th.

For live updates from Tuesday’s match, make sure to follow @SounderU23 on Twitter. To read the match recap, and for all Sounders U-23 information including roster, stats, upcoming PDL schedule and more, visit SoundersU23.com or ‘Like’ us on Facebook.

David Geno runs with the ball in Round 1 of the US Open Cup (SoundersPhotos.com)

In just one half of play, Seattle Sounders U23 forward David Geno of East Tennessee State University made history. His four-goal performance was the first by a player from an amateur level team in the Modern Professional Era (1995-present) and put him among a list of 10 players in that same period that have accomplished the feat. In doing so, he earned the First Round TheCup.us Player of the Round honor voted on by the site’s staff and members of North American Soccer Reporters.

CLICK HERE for the full story on TheCup.us

Josh Phillips chases Victoria’s Tyler Hughes (SoundersPhotos.com)

VICTORIA, BC Canada – The Sounders FC U-23 started slowly on Sunday afternoon, giving up two first half goals to Brett Levis and were never able to recover. Attempts to close the gap were instead countered for two more Victoria goals before the Sounders notched one for consolation.

Whether it was the busy week, bus travel, or an especially thick and slow grass field, the Sounders U-23 struggled to find rhythm in Victoria. The Highlanders brought great energy in front of their home crowd and capitalized on chances in the 22nd and 32nd minutes, each by winger, Brett Levis. Then, in the 2nd half, Victoria found two more goals from a free kick and off an awkward bounce.

After an early chance in the 9th minute for Victoria, the Sounders began to control the run of play. However, in the 19th minute, after the ball floated over the end line, Darwin Jones crossed it back into the goal box for David Geno. Playing through the whistle, Geno headed the ball towards the goal. When he landed, he seemed to tweak his foot on the patchy grass field. Geno was forced to sub out of the match.

Riding the momentum swing, after seeing the Sounders talisman subbed off, the Highlanders went on the attack. Brett Levis worked space on the left channel after a quick throw in and shot low into the far post. His effort beat Earl Edwards for the first goal of the match.

The Sounders grew back into the match again, following the Victoria goal. After a corner kick was deflected to the top of the Sounders penalty area, Josh Phillips opened his right foot and drove at chest height shot off of the left upright.

Moments after the Sounders hit the post, Vitoria responded with another goal to extend their lead.  Again, it was Brett Levis. This time, he dribbled from the right wing into the box, chopping past two Sounders defenders and casually slotted the ball into the bottom corner from six yards out to make it 2-0 in the 32nd minute.

With 45 minutes to respond, the Sounders came out on the front foot for the 2nd half. However, despite multiple chances built for the Sounders, it was the home side that converted for the third goal of the game. Tommy Mallette brought the ball into the box from the right side. The diminutive attacker skipped in between two Sounders defenders and attempted a shot. While his first shot was blocked, the attempted clearance got stuck in a grass divot. The ball bobbled right back to Mallette, who scored from five yards out.

As the Sounders began to push forward with attackers subbing in for defenders, the midfield became non-existent. In the 61st minute, the Highlanders added another goal, this time from a poorly marked free kick. Riley O’Neill was alone near the penalty spot and headed into the bottom corner.

The Sounders would finally catch a break in the 63rd minute as their attack led to shots from Mark Lee and Aodhan Quinn. Their shots were both cleared off the line, but the latter, was only blocked as far as Miles Byass, six yards from goal. Byass made no mistake, and gave the Sounders their first goal of the PDL season.

The final half hour included chances for both sides, but each team seemed slightly worn out after the feverish pace at the beginning of the 2nd half, and the match ended without any further goals; 4-1.

The Sounders U-23 don’t have long to lick their wounds from the match on Sunday, as they will fly out Monday morning for their first ever appearance on Tuesday, in the second round of the U.S. Open Cup. They will travel across the country to take on the Charlotte Eagles of the USL Pro league on May 21st.

Darren Sawatzky, said, "The Open Cup is an exciting competition for these players. It gives them a chance to showcase their ability against professional players and we are looking forward to Tuesday’s game in Charlotte."

For more news and all things Sounders U-23, visit SoundersU23.com, follow us on Twitter: @SoundersU23, or ‘Like’ us on Facebook.


Scoring Summary:
VIC – Brett Levis 22’
VIC – Brett Levis 32’
VIC – Tommy Mallette 52’
VIC – Riley O’Neill 61’
SFC – Miles Byass 63’

 
 
Sounders FC U-23 – Earl Edwards, Joshua Phillips, Stephen Mohn (85- Luis Esteves), Michael Uyehara (61- Miles Byass), Mark Lee, Chris Brundage, Lucas Baldin (33- Michael Harris), Austin Sweeney (45- Nicholas Raskasky), Aodhan Quinn, Darwin Jones, David Geno (21-Abdul Aman (54- Eric Stevenson))
 
Substitutes Not Used: Zac Lubin
 
TOTAL SHOTS: 11; FOULS: 10; OFFSIDE: 3; CORNER KICKS: 7; SAVES: 3.


 
Victoria Highlanders – Elliot Mitrou, Kalem Scott (85-Adam Ravenhill), Gavin Barrett (80-Tarnvir Bhandal), Tyler Hughes, Ryan Ashlee, Riley O’Neill, Gareth Langdon (78-Craig Taylor), Matt Polster, Brett Polster, Brett Levis, Tommy Mallette (78-Craig Gorman), Jordie Hughes

Substitutes Not Used: Joel Wilson, Andy Phillips, , Jermele Campbell,

TOTAL SHOTS: 15; FOULS: 6; OFFSIDE: 1; CORNER KICKS: 3; SAVES: 3.
 
 
Misconduct Summary:
Victoria Highlanders: Riley O’Neill (caution) 87’

 
Referee:
Referee’s Assistants:
4th Official:
Attendance: 1,376
Time of Game: 1:00 p.m. PST
 
All statistics contained in this boxscore are unofficial

Sounders and Timbers battle for a header (SoundersPhotos.com)

May 16, 2013

PORTLAND, Ore. – A goal by midfielder Eric Miller and forward Zack Foxhoven in each half helped guide the Portland Timbers U-23s to a 2-0 win against division-rival Sounders FC U-23 before more than 3,500 fans on a Providence Health & Fitness Day on Thursday afternoon at JELD-WEN Field.

After trading a few early chances, the Timbers U-23s opened the scoring on Miller’s goal in the 25th minute. Portland added a second goal 15 minutes into the second half as Foxhoven took advantage of a free ball in the box off a set piece. Backed by five saves from goalkeeper David Meves, the Timbers U-23s held firm against the Sounders FC U-23 attack to secure the shut-out victory in their 2013 Premier Development League season opener.

Miller and Foxhoven scored their first goals of the season in league play, forward Mark Sherrod and midfielder Gabriel Conelian each registered assists as the Timbers U-23s (1-0-0, 3pts) earned their first win over the Sounders FC U-23 (0-1-0, 0pts).

Miller lifted the Timbers U-23s to a 1-0 lead in the 25th minute. After receiving a pass from midfielder Gabriel Conelian, Miller worked the ball into open space near the top left corner of the goal and drove a shot into the top far corner for his first goal of the season.

Portland doubled its lead, 2-0, in the 65th minute off a set piece. A free kick into the penalty area was headed on by forward Mark Sherrod and the ball deflected down in front of goal. Foxhoven worked into position to knock the ball into the back of an open net as Seattle defenders tracked back to goal.

Meves made three saves in the first half to help keep Sounders FC U-23 at bay, including a diving save in the 28th minute on a shot from distance by forward David Geno, who scored four goals for Seattle in their U.S. Open Cup match on Tuesday, aimed at the right post. Meves turned in another key save in the 54th minute, pushing high a shot by defender Michael Uyehara from roughly 20 yards out.

Sounders FC U-23 had chances in the second half to cut into the deficit. Midfielder Adbul Aman lifted a shot from inside 10 yards over the crossbar in the 70th minute – one of his team-high three shots. Eight minutes later, midfielder Miles Byass drove a shot from just beyond the top right corner of the penalty area over the mark.

Timbers U-23s defender Bryan Gallego denied a scoring chance for Seattle in the 88th minute, heading a shot by Sounders FC U-23 defender Josh Phillips off the goal line. Gallego also made a timely tackle inside the penalty area in the first half to prevent a quality look for Aman in the 17th minute.

The Sounders U-23 continue their busy week with a Sunday match in Victoria, British Columbia versus the Victoria Highlanders. Following that match, the Sounders U-23 will fly to Charlotte, North Carolina for a 2nd Round match in the U.S. Open Cup against the professional Charlotte Eagles.

For more news and all things Sounders U-23, visit SoundersU23.com, follow us on Twitter: @SoundersU23, or ‘Like’ us on Facebook.

 FULL MATCH STATISTICS - CLICK HERE

The Sounders U-23 open up the 2013 Premier Development League on Thursday mid-morning against the Portland Timbers U-23. Last year’s Northwest Division champion; Sounders U-23, and runner-up; Portland Timbers U-23 will play in front of elementary students from schools all over Portland for an 11am kickoff at JELD-WEN Field. Then, just a few days later, the Sounders U-23 will drive north to take on the Victoria Highlanders for a Sunday matchup.

David Geno celebrates with teammates after his forth goal in the US Open Cup (SoundersPhotos.com)

The Northwest Division has been one of the most competitive in the PDL’s recent history, with two of the last three champions hailing from its ranks, and the Sounders FC U-23 winning the Western Conference a year ago. With three MLS-affiliated squads, and other teams that have grabbed strong talent from colleges in the Pacific Northwest, little is likely to change in terms of competition, and the high level of play on offer.

Kitsap Pumas – The Pumas finished third in the division a season ago, being edged out of a place in the U.S. Open Cup by the Portland Timbers U-23s on goal difference in the regular season before falling in the division semifinals to the same team. This year’s squad sees some familiar faces returning, with Zach Sampson back in defense after making 14 appearances a season ago. Kennedy Chongo also arrives after having played for the Ventura County Fusion a season ago.

North Sound SeaWolves – The SeaWolves return some talented players, including Brady Ballew, who had three goals and four assists a season ago, but the club’s focus has been on bringing in new talent for the new season. To that end, former Portland Timbers U-23s midfielder Nick Hamer arrives after earning All-West Coast Conference First Team honors with Gonzaga last fall, while 6-foot-7 goalkeeper Ryan Herman is a former U.S. U18 international who spent last summer with the Sounders FC U-23.

Portland Timbers U-23s – After finishing as runner-up in the division a season ago, and earning a second consecutive berth in the U.S. Open Cup as a result, the Timbers U-23s have reloaded on talent for the new season. Back with the side is U.S. U20 international Eric Miller of Creighton, and 2012 All-League selection Mark Sherrod of Memphis. Sherrod had 10 goals and three assists last summer, and will be hoping to replicate that accomplishment again.

Sounders FC U-23 – After rebranding from the Tacoma Tide, the Sounders U-23 put together a remarkable run to not only the top of the division but also to the national semifinals of the playoffs. While they will be without standout defender DeAndre Yedlin, now starring for the Sounders in MLS, there is plenty of talent returning, including Aodhan Quinn (six goals, three assists) and Darwin Jones (four goals, two assists). Also joining the squad is Abduwali Aman, formerly of North Sound, after he recorded five goals last season. David Geno, a newcomer from East Tennessee State, scored four goals in the team’s US Open Cup match against Doxa Italia. He will lead a line of talented attackers.

Vancouver Whitecaps FC U-23 – The Whitecaps just missed out on the playoffs a year ago, but continue to use their strong academy system to provide talent for the club’s U-23 side. Among those returning this season are defender James Farenhorst, who had three goals and an assist in 16 games last season, while Gangandeep Dohsanjh is also expected back after making 15 appearances a year ago.

Victoria Highlanders FC – The Highlanders will be looking to make a return to the playoffs this season, and have returned a number of players to that end. Leading scorer Craig Gorman, who had five goals and three assists in 15 games, leads the way, with backing from goalkeeper Elliot Mitrou, who had six shutouts and a 1.125 goals against average while playing every minute of the season. Joining the squad this season is veteran attacking midfielder Riley O’Neill, who returns to his native British Columbia after playing overseas.

Washington Crossfire – The Crossfire made a notable coaching change for the new season, with Nik Besagno taking the reins as player/coach. After playing 12 games last season for the Crossfire after coming over from Kitsap, Besagno will have some good talent to work with as he tries to lead the side back to the playoffs. University of Washington goalkeeper Spencer Richey was a standout for Timbers U-23s a season ago, recording a 0.970 goals against-average in 14 games, while Nick James returns to lead the club’s back four.

David Geno scored his first four goals for Sounders U-23, all in the 1st half of his first match (SounderPhotos.com)

Sumner, Wash. – TACOMA, Wash. – On a beautiful Tuesday night in Sumner the Sounders U-23 cruised to a 5-1 victory over Southern California club Doxa Italia in the first round of the U.S. Open Cup. They were led by forward David Geno’s four first half goals.

A raucous crowd of nearly 500 were treated to an onslaught of Sounders U-23 first half goals as the chances came quickly and often.

Head Coach and GM, Darren Sawatzky said, “Soccer’s a player’s game. A young guy from Tennessee (Geno) came out and said ‘This is why I want to be in Seattle.’ At the end of the day I think a lot of kids want an opportunity to showcase themselves in front of MLS coaches, and with Sigi and some of the staff here tonight it’s always good for them to get seen.”

In the 13th minute the Sounders U-23 got on the board first. Darwin Jones connected with a through ball into the box, took a look up at the goal, and sent a perfectly placed left footed shot toward the far post. The ball hit off the inside of the post and in for the early 1-0 lead.

Sounders U-23 goal keeper Zac Lubin was tested shortly after with a nice looking shot with power from Doxa midfielder Kyle Holland. Lubin was up for the challenge and sent the shot away, which was then cleared away from danger by the Sounders U-23 defense.

In the 19th minute Aodhan Quinn calmly walked a ball into the left side of the box. He sent a low driving ball toward the back post where a sprinting Mauricio DeLeon had timed his run perfectly. Doxa Italia goal keeper Justin Commins came up with a huge save considering the point blank range of DeLeon’s shot, but Geno was there to follow up. With the ball bouncing up into his body, Geno got himself into position, and side-volleyed it into the top of the net for his first goal and a 2-0 Sounders U-23 lead.

The Sounders U-23 got on the board for a third goal when Jones broke free in the box again in the 36th minute. He spotted his man Geno making a run in front of the goal and sent a precise pass toward the forward’s feet. Geno calmly placed his shot past the Doxa Italia keeper for the 3-0 lead.
 
Then the Sounders U-23 started to pour on the offense as Geno stuck another one in the net for his hat trick. This time, right-midfielder DeLeon sent a seeking ball into the box. With his back to the goal and on the run, Geno flicked the ball up and over his defender. The ball continued to sail and found its way over the keeper, just under the bar to extend the lead to 4-0.

By halftime the Sounders U-23 had extended their lead to 5-0 thanks to yet another Geno goal. Geno got onto the end of a through ball just outside the top of the box, beat the last Doxa Italia defender, and then slid his shot into the back of the net for his fourth goal of the half.

It was clear in the second half that the Sounders U-23 were focused on keeping possession of the ball as the pace slowed. They managed five shots on goal as opposed to the blistering 11 of the first half.

Then, the Doxa Italia side got on the board in the 68th minute off of a free kick just outside the Sounders U-23 box. Doxa took the free kick quickly catching the Sounders U-23 defense off guard. Doxa leading scorer Bryan Byrne snuck behind the defense and stuck his shot into the net, eliminating the shut out. However, despite a few more chances down the stretch, Doxa Italia could not overcome the deficit.

Sounders U-23 return to the action for a busy week on May 16 and May 19 in Premier Development League play. The Sounders head on the road to face the Portland Timbers U-23 on Thursday for an 11am match and then head up to Victoria for a Sunday afternoon contest.

In addition, with the victory on Tuesday, the Sounders U-23 advance for their first ever appearance in the second round of the U.S. Open Cup. They will travel across the country to take on the Charlotte Eagles of the USL Pro league on May 21st.

Darren Sawatzky, said following the win, "The Open Cup is an exciting competition for these players. It gives them a chance to showcase their ability against professional players and we are looking forward to Tuesday’s game in Charlotte."

For more news and all things Sounders U-23, visit SoundersU23.com, follow us on Twitter: @SoundersU23, or ‘Like’ us on Facebook.


Scoring Summary:
SEA - Darwin Jones 13’
SEA - David Geno 19’
SEA - David Geno (Darwin Jones) 36’
SEA - David Geno (Mauricio DeLeon) 38’
SEA - David Geno 45’
DOX - Bryan Byrne 68’
 
 
Sounders FC U-23 - Zac Lubin, Michael Uyehara, Mark Lee, Chris Brundage, Lucas Baldwin, David Geno (Ian Lange 45), Aodhan Quinn (Michael Gallagher 59), Darwin Jones (Michael Harris 73), Mauricio DeLeon, Steve Mohn, Adam West.
 
Substitutes Not Used: Ben Dragavon, Abdul Aman, Michael David, Miles Byass.
 
TOTAL SHOTS: 16; FOULS: 12; OFFSIDE: 3; CORNER KICKS: 5; SAVES: 4.


 
Doxa Italia - Justin Commins, Justin Valashinas, Ryan Purtell, Joe Cartlidge, Nissa Hatifie (Eddie Pinto 45), Devin Toohey, Steve Chirgwin (Sean Lockhart 64), Greg Piechota, Kyle Holland, Bryan Byrne, Ryan Taylor (Ilia Nazarov 64).

Substitutes Not Used: Devin Shrade, Ricky Figuerod, Richie Million, Matt Urton.

TOTAL SHOTS: 5; FOULS: 5; OFFSIDE: 0; CORNER KICKS: 0; SAVES: 4.
 
 
Misconduct Summary:
Sounders FC U-23: Michael Uyehara (caution) 71’
Doxa Italia: Sean Lockhart (caution) 72’
Doxa Italia: Joe Carlidge (caution) 89’


 
Referee: Katja Koroleva
Referee’s Assistants: Baboucarr Jallow, Ray Moffit Jr.
4th Official: Timon Berry
Attendance: 473
Time of Game: 7:00 p.m. PST
 
All statistics contained in this boxscore are unofficial

TACOMA, Wash. – The Sounders U-23 will take on Coast Soccer League champions, Doxa Italia, in the first round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. The match is set for 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 14th at Sunset Stadium in Sumner, Washington.

This will be the first ever meeting between the two sides and both are coming off of previous season successes. The Sounders U-23 were Premier Development League - Northwest Division regular season champions a year ago, and advanced all the way to the PDL National Final Four as Western Conference champions. Doxa Italia completed a perfect 16-0-0 season on their way to capturing the CSL Premier Division championship, and they will play for the CSL Cup title later this summer.

Doxa Italia is a formidable Southern California soccer club with a history of success inside and outside of California. They’ve won the CSL Premier Division league title five out of the last nine years, were USASA National Amateur Cup runners up in 2011, and that same year, Doxa made their first appearance in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.

“Our previous experience in the U.S. Open Cup will certainly help us in our approach for this game,” said Doxa Italia midfielder/forward, Kyle Holland. “The Doxa Italia team that participated in the U.S. Open Cup in 2011 was comprised of a group that did not consistently play matches and train together the same way that this 2012/2013 team has.”

The Sounders U-23 defense will have to be aware of the Doxa Italia goal scorers at all times. Doxa Italia scorched their opponents averaging over four-and-a-half goals per game (74 total), while allowing only 12 into their own net for the season. Leading all goal scorers was forward and team manager Bryan Byrne with 28 goals and 13 assists in 17 games. The offensive prowess comes as no surprise considering the level of experience present on the Doxa Italia side.

“The personality of this group is simple. Each player at one point or another in their career has played soccer at an elite level. So the competitiveness is always present at training and in games,” Holland said. “Most of us have played together for long enough to know one another’s strengths and weaknesses and not a single player is shy about calling another out if they aren’t providing what is needed for the team to be successful that day.”

Doxa Italia’s opposition, the Sounders U-23 are in their first US Open Cup. Head Coach and General Manager, Darren Sawatzky, has reassembled his young team, and is looking to add onto the success they achieved in their inaugural season last summer. Winning the 2012 PDL Northwest Division title earned the Sounders U-23 their first ever birth into this tournament.

Darren Sawatzky, said, “Qualifying for the Open Cup was a goal last year and the young players are excited to test their level against former professional players that compete in a very good league.  Different than a team that plays and trains together regularly throughout the year, we field our group of academy players and top college players looking to get to that next level for a couple months.  It will be a very good learning game for these players.”

The opening round match comes just ahead of the start of the 2013 PDL season for the Sounders U-23. Including Tuesday’s match, the Sounders U-23 will play three games in six days as they take to the road for their first two league matches. On Thursday, May 16th, they open league play at JELD-WEN field against last year’s runners up Portland Timbers U-23. Then the Sounders U-23 will travel north of the border to take on the Victoria Highlanders FC on Sunday, May 19th.

The 2013 version of the Sounders U-23 will include some familiar faces, as well as plenty of new talent. Several of last year’s standouts have moved on to play in the MLS; such as defender Anthony Arena, goal keeper Doug Herrick, and current Sounders FC starter and U-20 U.S. National Team player DeAndre Yedlin, while others have moved on to other opportunities.

So far this year, the Sounders U-23, comprised mostly of trialists, went 1-0-1 in pre-season exhibition matches playing Bellingham United FC to a 0-0 draw, and defeating Seattle University 1-0. This first round match-up against a strong Doxa Italia team will allow the coaching staff an opportunity to evaluate the team in their first competitive match of the season.

“We play to win always so we look forward to the competitive nature Doxa Italia represents,” said Sawatzky. “Tuesday will be an exciting game for the fans.”

The winner of Tuesday’s U.S. Open Cup match will advance to face USL PRO team Charlotte Eagles at Queens University of Charlotte Sports Complex on May 21st. The loser is out of the single elimination style tournament.
For all Sounders U-23 information including roster signings, schedules, ticket information and more, visit SoundersU23.com, follow us on Twitter: @SoundersU23, or ‘Like’ us on Facebook.
 

Austin Sweeney, while with the Sounders Academy (photos by SoundersPhotos.com)

TACOMA, Wash. – The Sounders U-23 have announced the signing of another talented young local product to the team. Seattle University midfielder, and Sounders Academy alum, Austin Sweeney will join the Sounders U-23 for the 2013 PDL season. 

In his freshman season for the Redhawks, Sweeney appeared in 17 games, starting 12 of them. His first collegiate goal came during SU’s dramatic 4-3 victory over the University of Portland Pilots in September of last year.

Sweeney played his high school soccer locally for Todd Beamer High School in Federal Way, Wash. He was also a member of the Sounders Academy U-16 and U-18 teams in 2011 and 2012.

"Austin Sweeney had a great academy run here with the Sounders Academy and he is part of the program at Seattle University under Pete Fewing and his staff,” said Head Coach and General Manager of the Sounders U-23, Darren Sawatzky.  “This summer will be an extension of the academy for Austin as we watch him develop and it will be great to get him back in the Rave Green for a few months."

Sweeney and the Sounders U-23 will face Doxa Italia on Tuesday, May 14th in their opening round match in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open cup. The match is set for 7:00 p.m. at Sunset Stadium in Sumner, Wash. Then, they will begin their campaign to repeat as PDL Northwest Division Champions when they take on the Portland Timbers U-23 in Portland, Ore. on Thursday, May 16th.

For more information about the Sounders U-23 upcoming PDL season and U.S. Open Cup tickets, visit SoundersU23.com, follow us on twitter: @SoundersU23, or ‘Like’ us on Facebook.

Austin Sweeney
Position: Midfielder
Height: 5-9
Born: 7-12-94
Hometown: Federal Way, WA
College: Seattle University
Last Club: Sounders Academy
Citizenship: USA
 

Jordan Schweitzer competes for the Sounders Academy in 2012 (SoundersPhotos.com)

TACOMA, Wash. – Jordan Schweitzer returns to the Pacific Northwest to play for Sounders FC U-23 after a very productive freshman year with University of Denver.  Schweitzer captained both the Sounders FC U16 and U18 Academy teams, in his two years with the Sounders FC Academy.

Having played in nineteen of twenty games in his freshman season, Schweitzer was an All-MPSF honorable mention with the Pioneers. 

“It was a good year. I learned a lot, and my experience with the [Sounders] academy definitely prepared me for the jump,” said Schweitzer on his freshman year with Denver.

A graduate of Henry M. Jackson High School in Everett, WA, Schweitzer has always been hard working, on and off the pitch. A charismatic kid with a great leadership presence, he has captained teams in high school, Washington state ODP and Sounders FC Academy.  Over the past few years, he has been involved in coaching at Sounders FC summer camps, where he helps instill his work ethic and love of the game to the next generation of soccer players in the Puget Sound region.

Sounders FC U-23 coach, Darren Sawatzky, said, “We want to make sure that players coming out of the Sounders FC youth system are good young men. Jordan represents this type of player.”

A self-described "blue-collar player", Schweitzer is a big, tough, defensive midfielder with a high work rate, great leadership skills and deep desire to win.

“We are looking forward to seeing Jordan play this summer after his year at Denver,” said Sawatzky. “He has worked very hard to get better each year and his development speaks for itself.”

With the Sounders U-23 coming off a highly successful 2012 season, Schweitzer knows that the competition for playing time and the caliber of players filling out the roster will make for an exciting summer.

“I’m really excited to get back to Seattle and play for Darren,” said Schweitzer on coming to play for Sounders U-23s. “This team is already looking amazing and I want to come in and work hard and just hope to earn some minutes and work towards winning a championship.”

For more information on roster signings, schedule and U.S. Open Cup draw, visit SoundersU23.com, follow us on Twitter: @SoundersU23, or ’Like’ us on Facebook.

Jordan Schweitzer
Position: Midfielder
Height: 6-0
Born: 4-19-94
Hometown: Everett, WA
College: University of Denver
Last Club: Sounders Academy
Citizenship: USA
 

RENTON, Wash.

“Major League Soccer has embarked on an exciting partnership with the USL Pro,” said Owner and General Manager Adrian Hanauer. “This is a great opportunity for the two leagues to unite for the development of soccer in this country. Sounders FC will eventually have an operating partner in the USL. The city of Tacoma would be a fantastic location for us, and this game will give us a chance to test the market.”

Tickets to the match are available at www.TacomaRainiers.com or www.Ticketmaster.com, or by calling 253-752-7700. Tickets start at $10 with discounts for senior citizens and military. Children three and under are free. Gates open at 3 p.m. 

“This is a great chance for Tacoma – and the greater South Sound – to show the Northwest how much we love soccer,” said Aaron Artman, President of the Tacoma Rainiers.  “The Sounders have done an incredible job rallying this entire region around soccer and their fan experience is the best in the business.  We are thrilled to partner with them and look to showcase Cheney Stadium as a great soccer venue for this match and hopefully future matches in 2014 and beyond.”

 Sign up for Pre-Match Clinics

Learn to play like the Sounders, from current Sounders Women & U-23 players and staff for a one-hour clinic prior to the match!

Clinics begin two hours prior to each home Sounders Women and Sounders U-23 match and are open to boy and girls, ages 6-18.

The price is $100 and includes:

• 1 hour skills clinic - (coached by Sounders players and staff)
  
• 2 match tickets - (Grandstand seats)
  
• Official Sounders Women scarf or U-23 shirt
  
• Special VIP Pre-Match Field Tour
• Sounders Women / U-23 poster (for post-game signatures)
  
• Extra Prizes!
  

Clinics can be purchased for individual matches through SoundersWomen.com and SoundersU23.com ticketing pages. To purchase a clinic, click "sign up" below from either the Sounders Women or Sounders U23 and select the match of your choice:

Sounders Women 2013 Home Schedule

Sounders U23 2013 Home Schedule

Earl Edwards (left) and Eric Stevenson (right)

TACOMA, Wash. – The Sounders U-23 have announced the signing of two additional top-notch NCAA players. Midfielder Eric Stevenson, out of Akron University, and goalkeeper Earl Edwards, out of UCLA will join an already very talented Sounders U-23 side for the 2013 PDL season.

Eric Stevenson is coming off of his redshirt-junior season for the Zips, starting all 22 games. He posted seven goals and five assists against highly competitive Mid-American Conference foes, and was named to the All-MAC Second Team.

“I am really excited about my opportunity to come to Seattle and play for the Sounders U-23,” Stevenson said. “I have heard really good things about the organization from teammates and current Sounders players like DeAndre [Yedlin], and it will be a great experience for me to get quality training and games with quality players.”

Pryor to his college career, Stevenson was a well decorated high school player earning NSCAA High School All-American, and two-time Division III All-Ohio first team honors.

Earl Edwards started 15 games for the Bruins in his redshirt-sophomore season, allowing only 19 goals with a record of 10-3-2 over that span. He brings the experience of being a team captain for the Bruins to the Sounders U-23, and the confidence to lead a team.

“As a goalkeeper I think I have good size, I’m athletic and have a strong presence. I organize my defense well, and my distribution can help a team possess the ball,” Edwards said.

He also brings his experience of international play to the team. Edwards is a member of the U.S. U-20 National Team, and was the starting keeper for the U.S. at the 2009 U-17 World Cup.

The Sounders U-23 open up PDL regular season play against the Portland Timbers U-23 on May 16th at JELD-WEN field in Portland. Their first home match will come on May 24th at 7:00 p.m. at Curtis High School Stadium against the Kitsap Pumas.

For more information on roster signings, schedule and U.S. Open Cup draw, visit SoundersU23.com, follow us on Twitter: @SoundersU23, or ’Like’ us on Facebook.
 

Doug Herrick poses for a photo while with Sounders U-23 in 2012 (SoundersPhotos.com)

TACOMA, Wash. – 2012 Sounders FC U-23 goalkeeper, Doug Herrick has signed with Major League Soccer.  Herrick has signed as an emergency pool goalkeeper for the league.  Should an MLS club suffer an extreme hardship, needing a goalkeeper, Herrick would join the club and fill the need.

Since January, Herrick has been training regularly with Seattle Sounders FC.  Under the terms of the contract, he will continue to be based out of Seattle and train with Sounders FC.

"To get to work with Tommy Dutra and some of the first team goalkeepers on the whole is such a wonderful experience and a great way for me to improve," said Doug Herrick about his experience working with Sounders FC.  "Also, for me, this is an opportunity to realize that this is what I want to do, and this is something worth chasing; and something that I’m good enough to chase."

A 2012 graduate of Saint Mary’s College, Herrick was a three-time All West Coast Conference selection, and school record holder in minutes played; 5,820, career wins; 27 and career shutouts; 24.

"I give a lot of credit to Adam Cooper and staff for putting together a successful program," said Herrick of his time with the Gaels. "My success academically and athletically will stay with me forever."

Herrick was a PDL standout with Sounders U-23, leading the league with eleven wins in fourteen league games played.  In leading the team to a Western Conference Championship, he had five shutouts and an impressive 0.933 goals allowed average.

Since concluding the 2012 PDL season, Herrick has gone on to earn ten international caps with the Guam National Team. 

"Doug has made huge strides in the last year. He’s been a bit of late bloomer," said Sounders FC goalkeeping coach, Tom Dutra.  "He comes in and works hard and is just a good guy to have around.  He could have a good future in this game if he keeps dedicating himself and working hard each and every day."

Herrick said, "I think there’s a big step between playing college and playing professionally and I think the experience I had with the U23s, as well as the regular training with the first team helped me a lot. Working with Darren (Sawatzky), who is an ex-pro, who’s been a part of the organization and Ben Dragavon, who was also an MLS pool goalkeeper; I think that experience is invaluable."
 
For more information on roster signings, schedule and U.S. Open Cup draw, visit www.SoundersU23.com, follow us on Twitter: @SoundersU23, or ’Like’ us on Facebook.
 

Unfortunately, obtaining a Mexican citizenship was proving to be quite difficult for the young foreigner. Baldin had always been a good student and had aspirations of to coming America, where he could get a great education and the prospects of playing soccer in America was also quite appealing.  With the support and blessing of his parents, back in Brazil, as well as his brother, who just graduated medical school in Mexico, Baldin began to look into setting off on his own, and move to the United States.

Having been recruited by several universities, Baldin ultimately chose University of South Florida. 

“I felt a very good vibe," said Baldin about the impression of the USF coaching staff.  “When I started to look at the campus online, the facilities, the stadium they were going to build, something inside me just said--go to USF, that's your place!”

Baldin describes the move to the United States as "perfect, just perfect!"

Lucas Baldin is a very mature and grounded young man.  He refers to his brother as his "hero."  The player he most closely follows is Kaká.  As a child, Baldin was a huge supporter of São Paulo, where Kaká began his career.

“I love the way that Kaka plays and he plays in the same spot as I play,” said Baldin. “He is a huge role model--not just because of the way he plays, but because of the way that he takes care of himself on and off the field.”

An economics major, Baldin has received Big East All-Academic honors for his work in the classroom.  University of South Florida head coach, George Kiefer spoke quite highly of the talented midfielder.

“Lucas is a class act. He does excellent in school, so academically his grades are very good.  He's a good-good person.  He's raised from a good family. [He’s a] first class guy.  He's always shaking your hand when he comes in, he's polite and respectful.”
On the field is where Baldin really shines. 

“He's very good at keeping a rhythm to the game,” said George Kiefer. “He's a leader on the field, he's very good tactically and you'll hear him communicating on the field.”

An attacking midfielder with a team-first mentality, Baldin looks to put his forwards in front of goal; he has tremendous vision and passing ability. 

Speaking of his team-first mentality, Baldin said, “If my teammates score, that's a goal for me--I'm as happy as possible!”

“For me, there is nothing more important than for my team to win,” said Baldin. “I sacrifice all I have for my teammates.”

In January, Baldin and Coach Kiefer sat down to talk about the upcoming summer and where Baldin could play, to further his development.  It became quite clear that he wanted to play for team affiliated with an MLS franchise, was well-run, and would contend for a championship.  Coach Kiefer spoke highly of Seattle Sounders FC and Baldin, too had been impressed with what he had seen and heard of the organization.  It was then that Baldin reached-out to Sounders FC U-23 head coach, Darren Sawatzky, where he presented his case to earn a roster spot for the upcoming season.

Baldin's excitement and enthusiasm to join the Sounders FC U-23 is very apparent in talking with the young Brazilian. 

“My objective right now is to have a great summer and to win the PDL championship with the Sounders.  That's what is in my head right now--it's been stuck in my head for the last two months, I can't wait to get to Seattle and play!”

The ambitions of Baldin match those of Sounders FC U-23's overall philosophy:  To win championships and to develop professional soccer players.  The reigning Western Conference Champions had a number of players that have gone on to play at the next level, most notably; DeAndre Yedlin.

 Baldin is a player with impressive talent and has an absolute desire to make it as a professional soccer player.

USF head coach, George Kiefer believes in the talented midfielder as well, “I believe he's a guy that will be drafted into MLS,” said Kiefer.   “I look at him technically and his brain, and I feel like he's a guy that can play at the next level.”

Be sure to come out and see all the talented players with Sounders FC U-23 this season.  For more information on roster signings, schedule and U.S. Open Cup draw, visit www.SoundersU23.com, follow us on Twitter: @SoundersU23, or 'Like' us on Facebook.
 

Machael David returns to the Northwest (photo by SoundersPhotos.com)

TACOMA, Wash. – The Sounders FC U-23 announced today that Machael David, a midfielder from UC Santa Barbara, has been signed for the 2013 Premier Development League season.

Machael David
Position: Midfield
Height: 5-8
Born: 7-3-88
Hometown: Kwale, Nigeria / Gig Harbor, WA
College: UC Santa Barbara
Last Club: Colorado Rapids (preseason MLS)
Citizenship: USA (acquired in April, 2012)

Below is an in-depth look into the remarkable tale of Machael David.

***

The story of Machael David is one that has been beautifully chronicled by Graham Parker in Grantland (seriously, take a few minutes and read the article, you'll be blown away).  This is article concludes with David being selected by Colorado Rapids in the 2013 MLS Supplemental Draft.  A lot has happened for Machael David since January and he has aims to use the 2013 PDL season with Sounders U-23 as a launching pad to something great. 
 
Anyone that has spent more than a few minutes with Machael David has surely been struck by his enthusiasm, passion and generosity.  This is a young man that has overcome many obstacles, but remains resolute and focused on proving himself as a professional soccer player.

"He is an exciting and quality player with a bright future, but better, is a wonderful person with a story of strength and perseverance," said Sounders U-23 Technical Director, Michael Jennings.

Machael David chests down a ball in the MLS Combine (photo by Grantland.com)

For the first time in nearly two years, David is healthy, and ready to showcase his abilities that made him such a sought after player, out of Gig Harbor High School.  It has been a frustrating couple of years for the talented midfielder.  While many players would have loved the opportunity to participate in the MLS Combine and better yet, get drafted, David knew he was not at his best.

Machael David said, "I was coming back from an injury two years in a row and I wasn’t really prepared. I wasn’t ready for the combine; I was just getting through my rehab. It didn’t work out in Colorado but I’m really glad to be back here in Seattle."

Looking for a fresh start, David reached-out to a couple Seattle-area coaches for guidance and support, Brian Schmetzer, Seattle Sounders FC Assistant Coach and Darren Sawatzky, Sounders U-23 Head Coach and GM.
 
“We are excited that Machael has come back to the northwest to work his way up the soccer ladder.  He is a very talented player that we have been watching for more than a decade now. His demeanor both on and off the field will make the summer enjoyable,” said Sawatzky.

With a support structure in place and enjoying the comforts of home, David is excited to join the reigning Western Conference Champions.

"I want to win something; in college, I never actually won something and I want to do it here,” David said. “I’m excited to be here!"

A box-to-box midfielder, who works both sides of the ball, you can expect to see a lot of excitement and enthusiasm in his play.

"When I’m playing, if I’m not talking, I’m not happy and soccer makes me happy!  Soccer is like therapy for me--when I’m on the field, I like to talk. I like to communicate.  I’m very crafty, I like to work hard and help my teammates be better players.  Expect a hard working player," said Machael David, of what fans can expect to see from him this upcoming season.

And so, the story of Machael David continues; a new chapter in the life of a remarkable young man, looking to fulfill a dream. 

David added, "People think of me with the injuries that I’ve had and I want to prove myself and help the team to win.  This is an audition for me--for me to show the coaches I’m back!"

For more information on roster signings, schedule and U.S. Open Cup draw, visit SoundersU23.com, follow us on Twitter: @SoundersU23, or ’Like’ us on Facebook.

TACOMA, Wash. – Aaron Kovar is a pacy, left-winger that is talented both on and off the pitch. The Seattle native graduated from Garfield High School with a 3.92 GPA. He was also named 2011 Gatorade State Player of the year. Kovar’s accomplishments both on and off the field led to his scholarship to Stanford University.

During his time at the Sounders Academy, Kovar was a standout player in his first season and was on track to be featured more prominently on the team during his senior year of high school. Unfortunately, much of that year was spent rehabilitating an injury and getting ready for the Cardinal in the fall of 2012.

In preparation for the start of his freshman season, Kovar was called in to train with the Sounders 1st team and reserves.

“Luckily I had been training with the Sounders first team and reserves for almost a month and a half before I went down [to Stanford],” said Kovar on his preparation last summer. “I didn’t find the transition [from high school to college] particularly challenging; I know a lot of guys have trouble with that, but it really helped training with the first team before I left.”

That fall, Kovar took the PAC-12 by storm and earned Pac-12 Freshman of the Year honors.

Stanford Cardinal Head Coach, Jeremy Gunn, said, “He came in and showed incredible progress through the year and he’s continuing to develop really well.”

For those that have not seen Aaron Kovar in action, Kovar has modeled a lot of his game around Manchester United great, Ryan Giggs.  Jeremy has also noticed the similarity as well.

 “He’s a great out-and-out winger and has certainly modeled his game after Ryan Giggs,” said Gunn. “He has incredible attacking qualities and provides great service from the left flank. Kovar is also capable of cutting inside and scoring goals with his right foot. He’s a tremendous attacking threat.”

While Sounders U-23 manager, Darren Sawatzky is looking forward to seeing Kovar in action on the pitch this summer, he is also looking for big things from him off the pitch.

“Aaron Kovar is a quality young man. He has done well in school and his character speaks for itself,” said Darren Sawatzky. “I look forward to watching him grow as a player, but more importantly, I really look forward to watching him become a leader in our community.”

A player with Kovar’s ability should provide Sounders U-23 fans with fantastic entertainment, as they look to repeat as Western Conference Champions and win a National Championship.

With the Seattle Sounders FC having signed DeAndre Yedlin to a homegrown contract this past January, Kovar certainly would love to follow Yedlin’s path into the professional league.

“This is a feeder system for the Sounders! Using DeAndre as an example, you really can see how this is the intermediate step between the Academy and reserves/first team,” reflected Aaron Kovar.

Kovar joins a Sounders U-23 club primed to repeat as PDL Western Conference Champions. The Sounders U-23 kick off their PDL season against the Portland Timbers U-23 on May 16th in Portland. For more information including additional roster signings, full schedule, and U.S. Open Cup draw, see SoundersU23.com, follow us on twitter @SoundersU23, or like us on facebook.

Ian Lange (left,) Michael Gallagher (middle), Michael Harris (right)

TACOMA, Wash. – Three University of Washington standouts will join the Sounders U-23 this summer for the 2013 PDL season. Defender Ian Lange, defender Michael Harris, and midfielder/defender Michael Gallagher were announced as the most recent signees.

Ian Lange is a product of Burien, Washington, and played his high school soccer for the Kennedy Lancers. In his freshman season as a Husky, Lange appeared in 14 games and the defender chipped in with one goal for the Dawgs.

“Ian Lange had a great fall at the UW and we know him well as a Sounders Academy player,” said Darren Sawatzky, Head Coach and General Manager of the Sounders U-23. “Ian is tough, and he can play many positions.  We will look for consistent minutes out of Ian this summer.”

Michael Harris will be heading into his senior season at the UW this fall. In his three seasons with the Huskies he’s played in 53 games, scored two goals, and brings his unique “flip-throw”  technique to the set-pieces.

“We are excited to have Michael Harris onboard this summer.  He is looking for a challenge as he gets ready for his college season and we like his versatility. He is a welcome addition to the group,” said Darren Sawatzky.

Michael Gallagher is another Western Washington native from Sammamish, Washington, and will be heading into his sophomore season at the UW. In his freshman season, Gallagher started 17 games for the Huskies, and he was named the 30th Best Freshman in the NCAA by Top Drawer Soccer.

“Gally is a very talented player and he is growing at the UW,” Sawatzky said. “He finished strong this fall, and we will work to get him ready for the college season and continue to monitor his progress.”

The trio of local talent will join a Sounders U-23 club primed to repeat as PDL Western Conference Champions. The Sounders U-23 kick off their PDL season against the Portland Timbers U-23 on May 16th in Portland. For more information including additional roster signings, full schedule, and U.S. Open Cup draw, see SoundersU23.com, follow us on twitter @SoundersU23, or like us on facebook.
 
Ian Lange
Position: Defender
Height: 6-1
Born: 5-18-94
Hometown: Burien, WA
College: University of Washington
Last Club: Sounders Academy
Citizenship: USA

Michael Harris
Position: Defender
Height: 5-10
Born: 10-03-91
Hometown: Shoreline, WA
College: University of Washington
Last Club: Snohomish United
Citizenship: USA

Michael Gallagher
Position: Def/Mid
Height: 6-2
Born: 8-07-94
Hometown: Sammamish, WA
College: University of Washington
Last Club: Sounders Academy
Citizenship: USA
 

Darwin Jones holds the Sounders U-23 scarf (photo by SoundersPhotos.com)

TACOMA, Wash. – Coming off a fantastic 2011 fall season at Highline Community College, Darwin tallied 15 goals and 10 assists for the Thunderbirds and was set to transfer the University of Washington for the fall of 2012. He was looking to prepare for the Huskies' season by playing with the Sounders FC U-23 in the spring and summer. Unfortunately, a lingering injury limited Jones' performance for the Sounders U-23 and transfer complications prevented him from joining the University of Washington in the fall, as planned.

Last season with the Sounders U-23, Jones finished the regular season with four goals, two assists in nine appearances and was instrumental in helping the team advance to the National PDL Semi-Finals.

By Jones' standards and expectations, last season was a disappointment and he feels that he has something to prove to himself and the coaching staffs of the Sounders and Huskies.

“The team we had last year was really good and of course we felt we could have won it all,” said Darwin Jones, when reflecting on last season. “It has given me a feeling that I can't wait to play this year, because we have a lot to prove. Even though last year was a first year and we made it pretty far, I think we have a lot in us this season."

Throughout the fall of 2012, Jones regularly trained with the Seattle Sounders FC first team, helped out the staff around the Sounders organization and has worked to get his transfer to the University of Washington in order.

The Sounders FC staff has been extremely supportive, explains Jones, “They basically tell me that if I ever need anything that they're always there for me. They tell me to stay focused. They know my ability and they want to see me in action."

Jones is enrolled at the University of Washington for spring classes and will be playing spring soccer for the Huskies.

"I'm looking at playing with the U-23s as an additional preseason. I'm going to work hard with them so I can go into the fall flying," said Jones.

The expectations are high when the Sounders U-23 take the field this spring. Darwin Jones will be an important player for the team and a crucial component for the success they hope to achieve for the 2013 season.

“Darwin is a fast and powerful striker with a great demeanor and personality. The summer PDL season should get him ready for a tough PAC 12 fall season and see where he is in terms of developing more and more for the next level,” said Sounders U-23 manager, Darren Sawatzky.

The Sounders U-23 begin their quest to repeat as PDL Northwest Division champs on Thursday, May 16th. They will take on their Cascadia rival Portland Timbers U-23 at JELD-WEN Field at 11:00 a.m. The Sounders U-23s’ first home match takes place May 24th, against the Kitsap Pumas.

For more information on roster, schedules, and the U.S. Open Cup draw, see SoundersU23.com, follow @SoundersU23 on twitter, or like us on Facebook.
 

Lucas Baldin (white jersey) battles for the ball / Blake Wise (picture below, left) / David Geno (pictured below, right)

TACOMA, Wash. – The Sounders U-23 announced three out of state signings today for the 2013 PDL campaign. Midfielder Lucas Baldin, forward/midfielder Blake Wise, and forward David Geno will all join the team as newcomers to the Sounders U-23 organization.

Lucas Baldin comes to the Sounders U-23 from the University of South Florida, where he will be a junior next year. Baldin appeared in all 19 games for the Bulls in 2012, and scored three goals. The Brazilian born Baldin was raised in Mexico, where he has represented the Mexican Primera Division power Toluca’s U-20 team, and also represented Mexico in Germany’s Berlin Games.

"Lucas is a box to box midfielder with great vision and a desire to get to the next level. It will be fun to watch him pull the strings in midfield,” said Head Coach and GM of the Sounders U-23, Darren Sawatzky.

Blake Wise played his last two collegiate seasons for Indiana University before transferring to San Diego State. During his time with the Hoosiers, Wise was selected to the 2011 All-Big Ten Academic Team, and also played with the U.S. U-20 National Team.

"Blake has the pace and dribbling ability to get beyond players,” Sawatzky said. “We are looking for great production from him this summer in the Northwest Division."

David Geno will be a senior at East Tennessee State University next fall. In his junior season, he led the Buccaneers in goals and points by setting an ETSU single-season records with nine goals and 21 points. For his efforts, Geno was named the Atlantic Sun Conference Player of the Year 2012.

"We need a presence up top depending on the formation we play this summer. David adds a different type of forward to the group and his ambition is high. It will be fun to watch him battle with the defenders in this division," Sawatzky
said.

The Sounders U-23 begin their quest to repeat as PDL Northwest Division champs on Thursday, May 16th. They will take on their Cascadia rival Portland Timbers U-23 at JELD-WEN Field at 11:00 a.m. The Sounders U-23s’ first home match takes place May 24th, against the Kitsap Pumas.

For more information on roster, schedules, and the U.S. Open Cup draw, see SoundersU23.com, follow @SoundersU23 on twitter, or like us on Facebook.

 
Lucas Baldin
Position: Midfield
Height: 5-9
Born: 6-5-91
Hometown: Taubate, Brazil
College: University of South Florida
Last Club: Toluca U-20 (Mexico)
Citizenship: Brazil / Mexico

Blake Wise
Position: Midfield / Forward
Height: 5-8
Born: 11-24-91
Hometown: Frisco, TX
College: San Diego State / Indiana
Last Club: Orange County Blue Star
Citizenship: USA

David Geno
Position: Forward
Height: 6-1
Born: 5-10-92
Hometown: Kingsport, TN
College: East Tennessee State
Last Club: IMG Bradenton
Citizenship: USA

Nick Raskasky (left) / Aaron Kovar (center) / Darwin Jones (right) (Photos by SoundersPhotos.com)

TACOMA, Wash. – Following Open Tryouts for Sounders FC and Sounders FC U-23, which saw nearly 200 participants fighting for a spot in rave green, the Sounders FC U-23 have announced the signing of three Sounders Academy products, Darwin Jones, Aaron Kovar, and Nick Raskasky for the 2013 PDL Season.
Top players from the Sounders FC Open Tryout will be called back to trial with the Sounders FC U-23 in attempt to earn a signing.

Darwin Jones, 20, returns to the Sounders U-23 after scoring four goals and adding two assists in only nine matches played. Jones has spent time training with Sounders FC and will join the University of Washington soccer team in the fall.

Head Coach and GM of the Sounders U-23, Darren Sawatzky, said, “Darwin is a known commodity and having watched him play for the last 10 years, I am excited to watch him score again this summer.  His pace and power will be exciting for the Sounders U23 fans.”

Aaron Kovar, 19, is a Sounders FC Academy product finishing up his freshman year at Stanford University. He has seen time in Sounders FC Reserve matches as well. In 2011, Kovar played for the U.S. U-18 National Team before being named Washington State Gatorade Player of the Year. This past season with Stanford, he earned Pac-12 Freshman of the Year by scoring three goals and adding two assists in 15 matches played.

Darren Sawatzky said, “Kovar is an exciting young winger with loads of potential.  After the year at Stanford, we can’t wait to get him back in green and continue his development.”

Nick Raskasky, 20, returns to the Sounders after a freshman year at West Virginia University where he started all but one match. The defender produced two goals and two assists for WVU in 2012. The Tacoma, Washington native is a Sounders FC Academy alum.

“The past few years have been tough for Nick as he fought through some injuries to build a level of character we look for in players,” said Sawatzky. “His season at West Virginia speaks volumes and this summer should be a good showcase for him.”

Signings for Sounders FC U-23 will continue to be announced throughout the months of March and April. The Sounders U-23 kick off the season with two exhibitions on the road before the first home match on May 24. For more info on roster, schedules, and the U.S. Open Cup draw, see SoundersU23.com.

 
Darwin Jones
Position: Forward
Height: 5-10
Born: 4-4-92
Hometown: Des Moines, WA
College: Highline C.C. / Washington
Last Club: Sounders FC U-23
Citizenship: USA
 

Aaron Kovar
Position: Defender
Height: 5-10
Born: 8-14-93
Hometown: Seattle, WA
College: Stanford University
Last Club: Sounders Academy
Citizenship: USA
 

Nick Raskasky
Position: Defender
Height: 6-0
Born: -1-27-93
Hometown: Tacoma, WA
College: West Virginia University
Last Club: Sounders FC U-23
Citizenship: USA

Mark Lee (left), Steve Mohn (center), Chris Brundage (right) (photos by SoundersPhotos.com)

TACOMA, Wash. – Following last season’s run to the PDL National Final Four, the Sounders U-23 have reloaded for 2013. The Sounders FC U-23 have officially signed defenders Mark Lee, Chris Brundage, and Steve Mohn for the 2013 campaign. Lee and Brundage return for their 2nd season with the Sounders U-23, while Mohn transfers from the Kitsap Pumas. 

“We are excited to build on the success the players had last year,” Darren Sawatzky. “The U23 squad represents the next step to the first team for our academy products and it gives the top college players in the country a place to showcase as they look to the next level.”

Each of these defenders will bring experience and composure to a group of young talents.

Mark Lee is a multiple-year All Western Conference defender who can play centrally or as an outside back. He played all but one match last year and ranked 2nd on the squad in minutes played, behind DeAndre Yedlin.

“It’s going to be an exciting year,” Lee said. “Fans will see a bunch of young guys and some new faces coming in again this summer. Making it as far as we did last year and having the open cup this year really makes me excited to get back at it.”

Steve Mohn and Mark Lee were teammates with the Tacoma Tide in 2009 and again in 2011 with the Kitsap Pumas. That season the Pumas competed in the U.S. Open Cup and were knocked out by Sounders FC. This year, Mohn and Lee will team up again in the Open Cup, this time for Sounders FC U-23.

Steve Mohn played every minute of last year’s PDL season for the Kitsap Pumas, including their 2012 U.S. Open Cup match.
“Having a seasoned player like Steve Mohn helps the young players grow and develop,” Darren Sawatzky said. “We are very happy to have someone onboard with his experience.”

Chris Brundage finished his college career in the fall with a 2nd round run for the Washington Huskies. The center defender fought back from an early season injury to help the Dawgs to a 13-4-3 record, good enough for an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament. After a win against Air Force, UW fell to the eventual College Cup runner up, Creighton.

Brundage, who spent most of his senior season riddled with injuries, showed his quality during his junior year with 13 starts on the Washington season.

Sawatzky said, “Chris was a stalwart for us last year on the backline and we expect the same level out of him this spring. His leadership as he comes out of college will also help with the young players in our development structure.”

Signings for Sounders FC U-23 will continue to be announced throughout the months of March and April. The Sounders U-23 kick off the season with two exhibitions on the road before the first home match on May 24. For more info on roster, schedules, and the U.S. Open Cup draw, see SoundersU23.com.

Mark Lee
Position: Defender
Height: 5-10
Born: 10-5-87
Hometown: Puyallup, WA
College: Highline C.C.
Last Club: Sounders FC U-23
Citizenship: USA
 

Steve Mohn
Position: Defender
Height: 6-1
Born: 7-24-85
Hometown: Kent, WA
College: University of Washington
Last Club: Kitsap Pumas
Citizenship: USA

Chris Brundage
Position: Defender
Height: 6-1
Born: 5-15-91
Hometown: Gig Harbor, WA
College: University of Washington
Last Club: Sounders FC U-23
Citizenship: USA

Sounders U-23 Head Coach Darren Sawatzky is currently touring Europe to take part in a study-abroad program. Personnel from teams in North America’s top pro league will visit France’s national training center in Clairefontaine as part of a 16-month program designed to raise the talent level throughout MLS.The program runs from this month through May 2014. It features two weeks of immersion at the international youth academies of top European teams, including Real Madrid, Lyon, Paris Saint-Germain, Stuttgart and Athletic Bilbao.

Each MLS club, along with the league itself and US Soccer, nominated one coach from its academy to participate. As you can guess, Darren was selected by the Sounders FC to go ahead and take part in this program!

Want to win a Sounders-U23 Scarf? Check out the details here on our Facebook page:

 https://www.facebook.com/soundersu23

Arena added, “Also the amount of competitive games we played prepared me for success in my college season.”

Arena certainly provides depth for the center back position in Houston and has impressed the Dynamo coaching staff. Anthony has logged over 270 minutes for the Dynamo in pre-season and scored one goal in their win over Houston Baptist University so far.

Anthony Arena strikes the ball while playing for the Sounders U-23 (Photo by SoundersPhotos.com)

The Houston Dynamo took the last seed in the MLS Playoffs by placing 5th with a 14-9-11 record. Despite having a low seed, the Dynamo made it to the MLS Cup Final where they lost to defending champions LA Galaxy – a repeat of the 2011 MLS Cup Final. Houston has locked in their starting eleven from the last season and has added a proven MLS Striker Omar Cummings into their team.

Sounders U-23’s Anthony Arena Picked in MLS Supplemental Draft

January 12, 2013 - Tacoma, WA – Sounders U-23 alum, Anthony Arena was drafted today to Major League Soccer in the Supplemental Draft by the Houston Dynamo. Arena was drafted with the 18th selection of the MLS Supplemental Draft 1st Round.

An instrumental defender for the Sounders FC U-23, Anthony Arena helped the team secure the Western Conference Championship. Arena anchored a back line toward the Sounders U-23 run to the national semi-finals, losing to eventual national champions; FC London. Anthony logged over 840 minutes in ten matches before the top echelon student returned to Wake Forest to complete his degree. 

“Anthony is a competitor and a good leader, we are very happy that he was selected and wish him the best as he heads into his preseason,” said Darren Sawatzky.

In an interview for SoundersU23.com, this summer, Anthony Arena said, "It’s been my dream for awhile [to play MLS]. It all depends on my performance individually and our team.  One of the biggest things for guys that move onto the next level is how their team does.  If the team does well then it’s better for the individuals on the team."

The Houston Dynamo had no picks during the MLS SuperDraft, so Arena, and Supplemental Draftees from the 3rd and 4th Rounds; Nic Ryan and Yannick Smith are the only draftees to the MLS Cup runner-up.

MLS Scout profile page - http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/anthony-arena
 

The Sounders U-23 qualified for the 2013 U.S. Open Cup based upon their finish in the 2012 regular season as the top team of the Western Conference’s Northwest Division. Four teams from each of the PDL’s four conferences will enter the tournament.

Four teams from each of the PDL’s four conferences will compete for the cup in the first round, with the Michigan Bucks leading the way from the Central Conference. The Bucks made another strong run in the 2012 tournament, upsetting USL PRO’s Pittsburgh Riverhounds and Major League Soccer’s Chicago Fire on their way to the fourth round. They will be joined by the River City Rovers, who make their first appearance in the tournament, the Real Colorado Foxes and the Des Moines Menace from the Central Conference.

2012 PDL Finalist the Carolina Dynamo lead the representatives from the Eastern Conference, making their third consecutive appearance in the tournament. They are joined by both the Ocean City Nor’easters and Reading United from the Mid Atlantic Division, and the GPS Portland Phoenix from the Northeast Division, with United and the Phoenix making return appearances and the Nor’easters earning a berth for the first time since 2009.

Orlando City U23 makes a fourth consecutive appearance in the tournament, leading the contingent from the Southern Conference, which also sees the Laredo Heat return for a second consecutive season. They are joined by the Ocala Stampede, which won the Southeast Division in its first season in the PDL, and the Austin Aztex, who make their return to the competition after an outstanding first season back in action in 2012.

The Ventura County Fusion, who upset USL PRO’s LA Blues a season ago, make their fourth consecutive appearance in the tournament to lead the contingent from the Western Conference, and they are joined by first-time entrant FC Tucson, which will try to build on a standout inaugural season this year. Two MLS affiliates completed the lineup out west, with the Sounders FC U23 and Portland Timbers U-23s both earning berths from the competitive Northwest Division, the Timbers U-23s making their second consecutive appearance in the tournament.

The First Round of the 100th edition of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup has been set for Tuesday, May 14, with the second and third rounds occurring the following two weeks on Tuesday, May 21 and Tuesday, May 28. In an increase from 2012, the 2013 U.S. Open Cup champion will a $250,000 cash prize, while the runner-up will collect $60,000. The top Division II, Division III and amateur clubs will each receive a $15,000 prize.

PDL 2013 U.S. Open Cup Participants
Eastern Conference: Carolina Dynamo, GPS Portland Phoenix, Ocean City Nor’easters, Reading United
Southern Conference: Austin Aztex, Laredo Heat, Ocala Stampede, Orlando City U23
Central Conference: Des Moines Menace, Michigan Bucks, Real Colorado Foxes, River City Rovers
Western Conference: FC Tucson, Portland Timbers U-23s, Sounders FC U23, Ventura County Fusion.

PDL
The top developmental men’s league in North American, the PDL features 65 teams in 2013 within four conferences across the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. The PDL season consists of 14 regular season matches for each team, seven home and seven away, and provides elite collegiate players the opportunity to taste a higher level of competition while maintaining their eligibility. In addition to league play, PDL teams compete in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup as well as various exhibitions. The PDL has proven to be an important stepping-stone for top professionals now playing throughout the world.
 

   Sounders faithful cheer on the Sounders U-23 in 2012 (photo by Chris Coulter, SoundersPhotos.com)

Tacoma, WA – The Sounders FC U-23 have officially released 2013 Season Tickets for sale to the public. The Sounders U-23 will host seven Premier Development League matches and one special exhibition. The home venues for the Sounders U-23 include Sunset Stadium in Sumner, Curtis High School Stadium, Tumwater High School Stadium, and Starfire Sports Stadium.

Season ticket holders will receive admission to each regular season game, PDL playoff matches hosted by the Sounders U-23, and a special exhibition match to be held on April 26 at Cheney Stadium. Details on the exhibition at Cheney will be released soon.

Fans are guaranteed to see at least ten Sounders U-23 matches in 2013 with their season ticket package.  All of these matches cost just $80 for the entire season, a savings over individual match tickets.

The Sounders U-23 preseason begins April 24th, on the road in Bellingham with an exhibition against Bellingham United FC. Season tickets will work for that road match as well as the exhibition on May 1 versus Seattle University.

Season ticket holders will also have the opportunity to join the Sounders U-23 for a special double header on May 31 at Starfire Sports. The Sounders U-23 will compete against the Washington Crossfire after the Sounders Women host the Colorado Rush. One ticket will work for both matches.

Single match tickets will go on sale in April. Season tickets are on sale now at www.SoundersU23.com.

CLICK HERE for more info or the full Sounders U-23 schedule
 

DeAndre Yedlin, newly signed Sounders FC defender (Photo by Chris Coulter, SoundersPhotos.com)

Tacoma, WA – On March 23 and 24, the Sounders FC U-23 will host open tryouts for the Seattle Sounders FC. All players looking to join the Sounders FC can test their skills in front of Sounders coaches and staff with a chance to be a Sounder. Registration is now active on SoundersU23.com (CLICK HERE).

Tryouts will be held at Sunset Chevrolet Stadium in Sumner, Washington.  All pre-registered players will participate in tryouts on Saturday, March 23. The top players from two sessions on Saturday will be asked to return for the final day of tryouts on Sunday, March 24. All registered players will be split into two separate groups for a morning session (7-10am) and afternoon (2-5pm) session.

“In order to evaluate the players and give them the best opportunity to show, we need to separate the groups,” Sounders U-23 head coach, Darren Sawatzky said. “We are excited to see the local and regional talent in March.”

Open tryouts are open to male soccer players, ages 16 years and older. Tryouts will feature small-sided as well as 11v11 games. Players will be assessed by members of the Sounders FC technical and coaching staffs.

Sounders FC Technical Director, Chris Henderson, said, “We are always on the lookout for top level talent and we want a deep roster where everyone contributes. The Northwest is known for producing excellent players, and these tryouts provide an opportunity to evaluate talented players from this region and beyond.” 

CLICK HERE to Register here

The registration cost for each player is $50. All players must register online at SoundersU23.com and will not be allowed to participate unless they have registered and pre-paid.

Details
Date: March 23-24
Times: Saturday – 7-10am or 2-5pm (players will be told which session they are assigned to) and Sunday – 7-10am
Location: Sunset Chevrolet Stadium in Sumner, WA - 901 Valley Avenue, Sumner, WA 98390
Registration: All players wishing to attend tryouts must fill out the application forms at SoundersU23.com. Applications must be submitted online and payment processed. Absolutely no applications will be accepted via phone or fax. All registrants will receive email confirmation.
Registration Fee: $50
Registration Deadline: March 22, 2011 (3pm cutoff)

CLICK HERE to Register here

The Sounders FC U-23 coaching staff evaluates from the sideline (Chris Coulter, SoundersPhotos.com)

Tacoma, WA – On February 7, the Sounders FC U-23 announced two pre-season exhibition matches. The first game will be played on Wednesday, April 24th against Bellingham United at Whatcom Community College (7pm). The second will be played on Wednesday, May 1st against Seattle University on the Redhawks campus (4:30pm*).

The Sounders first opponent, Bellingham United FC, placed third in their first season in the Pacific Coast Soccer League (PCSL). Bellingham United FC is head coached by Lance Calloway, who holds a USSF National “A” License.

Sounders FC U-23 GM and Head Coach, Darren Sawatzky, said, “Lance put together a solid team last year and it was great to follow their progress.  We are excited to head up to Whatcom to play a good game as we get ready for the Open Cup and Portland away.”

Making it to the national semi-final in their inaugural year, the Sounders FC U-23 are looking to continue their success from last year and start the 2013 campaign with a couple of pre-season games.

“Pre-season games are great because you get an opportunity to evaluate players that are trying to make your roster and you can work on fitness as you prepare for the upcoming season,” Sawatzky said.

Last year, the U-23’s defeated Gonzaga University as a pre-season tune-up for the regular season.

Sawatzky continued by saying, “Playing local college programs is important for both programs, it allows the college coaches to get a solid spring game and player evaluation continues for both sides.”

Following the exhibition season, the PDL regular season for the Sounders FC U-23 starts on Thursday, May 16th against the Portland Timbers at Jeld-Wen Field. The first home game will be on Friday, May 24th against the Kitsap Pumas at Sunset Stadium in Sumner.

Tickets for the Sounders FC U-23 will be available online soon. For more information and updates on matches, schedules, news, roster changes, visit www.SoundersU23.com.

*Match Times are subject to change, see SoundersU23.com for details.
 

Anthony Arena (Photo by Chris Coulter, SoundersPhotos.com)

Tacoma, WA – Sounders U-23 alum, Anthony Arena was drafted today to Major League Soccer in the Supplemental Draft by the Houston Dynamo. Arena was drafted with the 18th selection of the MLS Supplemental Draft 1st Round.

An instrumental defender for the Sounders FC U-23, Anthony Arena helped the team secure the Western Conference Championship. Arena anchored a back line toward the Sounders U-23 run to the national semi-finals, losing to eventual national champions; FC London. Anthony logged over 840 minutes in ten matches before the top echelon student returned to Wake Forest to complete his degree. 

“Anthony is a competitor and a good leader, we are very happy that he was selected and wish him the best as he heads into his preseason,” said Darren Sawatzky.

In an interview for SoundersU23.com, this summer, Anthony Arena said, "It's been my dream for awhile [to play MLS]. It all depends on my performance individually and our team.  One of the biggest things for guys that move onto the next level is how their team does.  If the team does well then it's better for the individuals on the team."

The Houston Dynamo had no picks during the MLS SuperDraft, so Arena, and Supplemental Draftees from the 3rd and 4th Rounds; Nic Ryan and Yannick Smith are the only draftees to the MLS Cup runner-up.

MLS Scout profile page - http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/anthony-arena

TAMPA, Fla. – United Soccer Leagues released the 2013 alignment and schedule for the PDL today, with the 455-game regular season getting underway on May 4 as LA Misioneros FC faces the Fresno Fuego, the Kitsap Pumas meet Victoria Highlanders FC and the Pali Blues welcome the Ventura County Fusion.

The Sounders FC U-23 will kick off the 2013 season with an away match in Portland. The Sounders U-23 will take on the Portland Timbers U-23 on May 16 at Jeld-Wen Field.

Sounders FC U-23 Head Coach and General Manager, Darren Sawatzky said,“It’s always exciting to the start the season against Portland, in Portland.  They are a very well coached team, and the games are what rivalry games should be; competitive.”

Sawatzky added, “It is also great that we get to play the Timbers three times this season, and hosting them again in Tumwater will be fun.”

2013 PDL Schedule

A total of four new teams have joined the PDL for 2013, including the New York Magic – F.A. Euro, the Real Boston Rams, the SW Florida Adrenaline and a franchise in Oklahoma City.

Several teams have announced name changes including IMG Academy Bradenton (IMG Bradenton Academics), K-W United FC (Hamilton FC Rage), the NJ LUSO Rangers FC (New Jersey Rangers), the S.C. United Bantams (Palmetto FC Bantams) and VSI Tampa Bay FC (VSI Tampa Flames).

The PDL will feature 65 teams in four geographic conferences and nine divisions. The Eastern Conference features three divisions while the Southern, Central and Western Conferences feature two divisions each.  PDL clubs will again play 14-game schedules in 2013, eight home and eight away. The defending PDL champion Forest City London opens its 2013 campaign on May 18, when it travels to play the River City Rovers.

2013 PDL Alignment

Premier Development League
The top developmental men’s league in North American, the PDL features 65 teams in 2013 within four conferences across the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. The PDL season consists of 16 regular season matches for each team, eight home and eight away, and provides elite collegiate players the opportunity to taste a higher level of competition while maintaining their eligibility. In addition to league play, PDL teams compete in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup as well as various exhibitions. The PDL has proven to be an important stepping-stone for top professionals now playing throughout the world.

Fernando Monge takes on the Portland Timber U-23 (photos by Chris Coulter, SoundersPhotos.com)

Tacoma, WA – Sounders U-23 alum, Fernando Monge was drafted today to Major League Soccer by the Montreal Impact at the Indianapolis Convention Center. Monge was drafted with the 18th selection of the MLS SuperDraft 1st Round.

Sounders U-23 standout Fernando Monge was a standout midfielder in a roster with multiple MLS talents. Monge’s season was highlighted by an 88th minute, game-winner, on the road against Cascadia rival; Portland Timbers U-23. Fernando Monge subsequently received PDL Team of the Week honors for Week 8. Fernando played 15 games and logged over 1200 minutes in addition to his five goals and two assists for the season.
 

“Fernando had a great year with the Sounders U-23 this past summer and a great year this fall at UCLA,” said Darren Sawatzky, Sounders U-23 Head Coach. “We are excited that he is continuing his career in MLS.”

Amid his career with the Sounders U-23’s, Monge played collegiately with UCLA. While at UCLA, his accomplishments included a run to the NCAA Final Four, and this season; Monge was selected NSCAA Second-team All-Far West, and First-team All-Pac-12. This season he spent time as a midfielder and forward, starting all 19 games and scoring five goals and one assist. Adding to his long list of accolades, Fernando was named Pac-12 Player of the Week for Oct. 28-Nov. 5 after scoring the game-winning goal in double overtime vs. Stanford.

Fernando Monge joins the Montreal Impact’s 8th overall selection, Blake Smith, as 1st round selections by the 2nd year organization.
 

 HIGHLIGHTS - http://www.mlssoccer.com/video/2013/01/16/mls-superdraft-fernando-monge

OFFICIAL SOUNDERS FC RELEASE:

RENTON, WASH. – Seattle Sounders FC has signed defender DeAndre Yedlin, the club announced today. Per Major League Soccer and club policy, terms were not disclosed. Yedlin is the first Homegrown Player signed by Sounders FC in franchise history. 

"We are thrilled to sign DeAndre as our first Homegrown Player,” said Owner and General Manager Adrian Hanauer. “Darren Sawatzky and Dick McCormick deserve much of the credit, as they have developed a top academy program for Sounders FC.  Hopefully DeAndre is the first of many local players who will come through our system and wear the rave green at the professional level."

Yedlin, 19, played for the University of Akron the past two seasons after graduating from the Sounders FC Academy system following the 2010-11 season. Yedlin, a Seattle native who attended O’Dea High School, was honored on the All-MAC First Team in his two seasons with the Zips and was named a College Soccer News Freshman All-American in 2011.

“It’s amazing to start my professional career in a place where I started playing soccer in the first place,” said Yedlin. “I’m excited to be able to perform in front of all the fans. It’s the best place to play in the United States—one of the best in the world I think. It’s very exciting for me.”

Yedlin appeared in all 45 games for Akron over the past two seasons, making 41 starts. He finished his collegiate career with 12 assists, including six assists last season, ranking third on the team. The right back served four assists during a five-match stretch in 2012 and recorded four game-winning assists in his freshman season. 

Prior to his collegiate career, Yedlin was a starter for Seattle’s O’Dea High School and the Sounders FC Academy team. He led O’Dea to three Washington State championships in 2005, 2008 and 2009. Yedlin was invited to the U.S. Soccer U18 Men’s National training camp and the 2010 SuperElite International Showcase. He participated on the ODP state team from 2006-09 and was named to the USSDA 93 Academy Select Team in 2009 and 2010. Yedlin was ranked seventh in the nation among all 2011 recruits by Top Drawer Soccer and was ranked 12th by College Soccer News. 

Transaction: Seattle Sounders FC (MLS) – Signed DEF DeAndre Yedlin

DeAndre Yedlin
Position: Defender
Height: 5’8
Weight: 150
Birthdate: 7/9/93
Place of Birth: Seattle, Washington
Hometown (Citizenship): Seattle, Washington (USA)
College: University of Akron
High School: O’Dea HS

PDL: Sounders FC U-23

 July 31st, 2012

Deandre Yedlin Earns All-PDL 1st Team

Tacoma, WA - Sounders FC U-23 defender, DeAndre Yedlin, was named First-Team All-PDL on Tuesday. The right back started every match during the 2012 campaign, scoring a goal and an assist. The selection recognizes Yedlin as one of the 11 best PDL players amongst the 73 teams across North America.

Sounders U-23 Head Coach, Darren Sawatzky said, “DeAndre is a dynamic, modern, outside back, with a great engine.  He was a warrior this summer logging every minute of every game.” 

Yedlin joined the Sounders U-23 after his freshman season at Akron.  Following his freshman season at the NCAA powerhouse, Top Drawer Soccer named him as one of the Top 10 Freshman in college soccer.

“DeAndre comes to training and games and works hard without any excuses and he has grown daily over the past two years,” Sawatzky said. “We look forward to watching him grow this fall at Akron”

The future is bright for Yedlin, who is a Sounders FC Academy alum. The 19 year-old is eligible to be a Homegrown Player for the Seattle Sounders FC. This means the Sounders FC first team could acquire Yedlin automatically without using a draft pick if or when they choose.

“DeAndre is poised to play at the next level, and time will tell how well he does,” Sawatzky said. “He has the pieces necessary to play as a professional and it will be fun to watch him in the coming years.”

Tacoma, WA – On Friday, December 14, Sounders FC U-23 was awarded with the 2012 Progress Award by the Premier Developmental League. The award is the first club honor received by the organization under General Manager and Head Coach, Darren Sawatzky.

"The Progress Award is substantial for our club because it shows the hard work and dedication everyone put in this past year from the owners, the front office staff, the coaches, the operational crew, to the players,” said Sawatzky. “We are very thankful to be recognized for the work and look forward to a productive 2013 season."

In the U-23’s debut season, the club earned a first-place finish with 36 points. The Western Conference Champions went 13-3-2 in the regular season and made it all the way to the National Semi-Finals before losing to eventual National Champions FC London. Individual accolades for the Sounders FC U-23 were highlighted by DeAndre Yedlin, who earned All-PDL 1st team.

Under mutual ownership with the Sounders FC U-23, the Sounders Women were also awarded the 2012 W-League Organization of the Year and Marketing Team of the Year Awards.

Hometown Pride

"Asked to contribute an article to Washington Youth Soccer about my youth soccer experience, two themes immediately came to mind —"Control the controllables," and, "Create your own luck."  These were mantras from my earliest coaches, Brian Schmetzer and John Hamel, of Emerald City Football Club. Lacking a proper soccer goal..."

Continue reading on the official enewsletter of Washington Youth Soccer!

Check out the nominations here!

REGISTER HERE - click here

The Legends pose for the cameras after the match (photo by Chris Coulter, SoundersPhotos.com)

Tacoma, WA - The Tacoma Soccer Center’s brand new Field Turf was the venue for a reunion of the ages. Some of the greatest soccer talent to ever grace fields in the Northwest laced up the boots once again for the NW Soccer Legends Night on November 9th. The match finished 8-4 in favor of the "Blue Team", but the hugs, jokes, and memories were the real story.

With a few last minute additions, here is a list of the Legends who took part in the 1st Annual, NW Soccer Legends Night:

The Legends:

Jimmy McAllister  (Pro Player 1976 – 1986, Coach 1988 – Present)
Jimmy McAlister was the 1977 NASL Rookie of the Year and earned six caps with the U.S. national team. As a defender for the Sounders, he was charged with marking Pele in the 1977 Soccer Bowl, a job he did well. Following a long outdoor and then indoor soccer career, McAllister took up coaching. He was recently inducted into the Washington State Youth Soccer Association Hall of Fame. In 2000, McAlister became the head coach of the Decatur High School Boys soccer team. The next season, he coached them to an undefeated season and the Washington State 4A championship. In January 2010, he returned to the city where he made his mark as a professional player, becoming the Director of Coaching of the Seattle United youth soccer club.
Players

John Baretta  (Pro Player 1979 – 1988, Coach 1988 – Present)
John Baretta made his name in goal as an excellent shot stopper. The Canadian went on to play in the NASL as well as six seasons in the Major Indoor Soccer League. Three of those seasons were spent with the Tacoma Stars where John played more than 70 games and recorded over 1,000 saves as the Stars keeper. He now coaches high school soccer.

Tim Bartro (Pro Player 1982 – 1996, Coach 1997 - Present)
Recruited in the third round of the 1982 NASL draft straight out of high school, Tim Bartro made his debut in the NASL in 1983 with the Seattle Sounders. Since then, he has played with the Golden Bay Earthquakes, Tacoma Stars, Seattle Storm, Portland Timbers, and Seattle Seadogs. Bartro scored 25 goals and 30 assists during his professional career. Currently, Bartro is coaching with the Washington Premier.

Fawzi Belal  (Pro Player 2004-2012,  Coach 2012  – Present)
Fawzi Belal was a member of the Seattle Sounders from 2004-2008. He has recently suited up for the Sounders FC in reserve matches as well. This year he joined the Sounders FC U-23 coaching staff as an assistant. He has coaching experience with Washington ODP as well as the youth club, Washington Rush.

Ralph Black  (Pro Player 1981 – 1999, Coach 1997 – Present)
Ralph Black is a Scottish-born defender who is best known for his indoor soccer exploits. In an eighteen year career, playing over 400 games, Black scored more than 120 goals. From 1984 to 1989, he played 210 matches for the Tacoma Stars, scoring 45 goals. Following his career, he took the reigns as a pro indoor and then youth soccer coach, which he continues at today.

Tom Bunnell (Playing Career 1985-1987, Coach 1985- Present)
Tom Bunnell manned the posts at Western Washington University from 1985-1987. Since then he’s trained goalkeepers all over the state. Tom’s coaching resume includes stints with Seattle University and the Seattle Sounders Women. Since 2004, Tom has served as Issaquah High School Girls Varsity Head Coach where he has led the team to state titles in 2004,2006 and 2007 and captured state runner up in 2005 and 2009.

Ben Dragavon  (Pro Player 2006 – 2009, Coach 2012 – Present)
Ben Dragavon graduated from Seattle University and went on to have an extensive pro career as a goalkeeper for the USL Sounders, the Sounders FC in MLS, Columbus Crew, and Toronto FC. One of Dragavon’s biggest moments was stepping on the field for Kasey Keller in 2009 after Keller received a red card. Ben is currently the goalkeeper coach for the Sounders FC U-23.

Ray Evans (Pro Player 1967-1989)
Ray Evans is an English fullback who played for historic clubs, Fulham, Millwall, Stoke City, and Tottenham Hotspur for 14 years before coming to America. While at Spurs, he featured in both legs of the European Cup Final against Dutch giants; Feyenord. Following his career in England, Ray joined the NASL and eventually the Seattle Sounders. After a stint with the Tacoma Stars as well, Ray finished his career with the Seattle Storm in 1989.

Jason Farrell  (Pro Player 1992-2004, Coach 2004-Present)
Jason Farrell was a star forward in two stints with the Sounders and time with the Columbus Crew. Jason scored 14 goals and 17 assists in his first tour with the Seattle Sounders, helping the team win back-to-back titles in ‘95 and ‘96 before going to MLS. In Major League Soccer, Farrell scored double digits in goals and pitched in for deep playoff runs. When he returned to the Sounders in 2001, Farrell picked up right where he left off, playing 88 games and posting eight goals and 15 assists in four years. Following his playing career, he was an assistant coach for the Sounders, and is now Technical Director for Seattle United.

Chance Fry  (Pro Player 1983-1997, Coach 1999-Present)
Chance Fry’s professional career started right after high school when he joined the Seattle Sounders in 1983. He went on to play the next four years for various indoor and outdoor teams around the United States before returning to Seattle to join the Storm. He would eventually return to the Sounders and scored more goals than any other player in A-League history. Fry’s 14 year career included five caps for the U.S. National Team. Now, Chance serves as the Director of Coaching for Eastside FC.

Taylor Graham  (Pro Player 2003-2011)
Taylor Graham played for three Major League Soccer teams during his pro career. In between stints with Kansas City and New York, he was a member of the USL- Seattle Sounders. Graham was a member of the 2005 and 2007 USL-1 Seattle Sounders championship teams. He was named USL-1 Defender of the Year in ‘05 and first team All-USL-1 in ‘05 and ‘08. A graduate of Stanford University, Graham made the jump to MLS with the Sounders before moving from pitch to the Sounders Front Office. The 2009 Humanitarian of the Year is now the Manager of Business Operations with the Sounders FC.

Gerry Gray  (Pro Player 1980 – 1991, Coach 2010-2011)
Inducted into the Canadian Soccer Hall of Fame, Gerry Gray played in the 1979 FIFA World Youth Championships and the 1986 FIFA World Cup finals. Gerry has earned 34 caps and 2 goals for the Canadian National team, including his crucial World Cup Qualifying goal in the Azteca Stadium against Mexico. He was on the 1982 All-NASL 1st team while at the Vancouver Whitecaps and in-all, he scored 169 goals in outdoor and indoor soccer including 34 for the Tacoma Stars.  

Gary Heale  (Pro Player 1975 – 1995, Coach 1996 – Present)
Following an eight season European career in England and Holland, Gary Heale came to the United States in 1983. Heale played for indoor and outdoor teams including the Tacoma Stars and Seattle Sounders. In two stints with the Stars, Gary played 268 matches scoring an incredible 176 goals. Following his playing career, he took up coaching and now coaches youth soccer with Washington Premier.

Ezra Hendrickson  (Pro Player 1996-2008, Coach 2009 –Present)
A native of the island of St. Vincent in the Caribbean, Ezra Hendrickson began his career in 1997 with the New York MetroStars, before joining the Galaxy later that season. He totaled six seasons in Los Angeles, where he also won the CONCACAF Champions Cup and the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. He was also named Galaxy’s Most Valuable Player for the 2001 season. Hendrickson was a member of three MLS Cup championship teams, winning two with Sigi Schmid. Together, they won the 2002 MLS Cup with the Los Angeles Galaxy and the 2008 MLS Cup in Columbus. Ezra was also with the champion D.C. United team in 2004. He is currently an assistant coach for the Sounders FC.

Sean Henderson  (Pro Player 1994 – 2005, Coach 1999 – Present)
Sean Henderson was a two-time prep All-American at Everett’s Cascade High School. He later was an NCAA champion and All-American at UCLA under Sigi Schmid. Henderson represented the U.S. at the U16, U18 and U20 national team level. He played 11 professional seasons in Germany and in the U.S. with Colorado Rapids and Seattle in the USL. Henderson began his youth coaching career in 1999 and is currently the assistant coach for the Sounders FC Youth Academy.

Scott Jenkins  (Pro Player 1996– 2005, Coaching 2006 - Present)
Listed 5th among all time leaders in appearances at the USL, Scott Jenkins amassed an amazing career with the Seattle Sounders. In 2005, Jenkins delivered the game-winning penalty kick and was awarded the Final Match Ball when the Sounders escaped with a 2-1 shootout victory over the Richmond Kickers in his last game with the Sounders for the USL Championship in front of 8,000 fans at Qwest Field.

Roger Levesque (Pro Player 2003-2012)
After playing for the Stanford Cardinals in the NCAA final and as high as 2nd Team All-American, Roger Levesque was drafted to the San Jose Earthquakes. After a knee injury, he later moved to the Seattle Sounders where he earned over 200 appearances. Roger scored 40 goals for the Sounders with some goal celebrations earning a little extra attention. He holds the record for quickest US Open Cup goal, just 48 seconds into the 2009 battle with the Portland Timbers, and later that year he notched the match winner against DC United in the Cup Final. Levesque’s final match for the Sounders was on July 18, 2012, when the Sounders played Chelsea F.C. He is now earning his MBA at the University of Washington.

Dick McCormick   (Pro Player 1988-2000, Coach 1997 – Present)
Dick McCormick is a Seattle native who played over 500 pro games and, most recently, coached some of the area’s most successful youth teams. In 13 pro seasons, McCormick was a playmaking midfielder for several indoor and outdoor clubs, including the Tacoma Stars, Seattle SeaDogs and USL Sounders. He won championships with the Sounders in 1995 and 1996, and with the SeaDogs in 1997. McCormick went on to coach under Brian Schmetzer for the USL Sounders from 2002 to 2004, and is now the Head Coach of Sounders FC Youth Academy Teams.

Neil Megson   (Pro Player 1983 – 1998, Coach 1993 – Present)
English born, but American capped, Neil Megson played 15 seasons in the NASL, Indoor Soccer, and A-League including stints with the Sounders and Stars.  He also earned two caps with the U.S. National Team in 1988. Following his playing days, Neil served as head coach to the Seattle Sounders for five seasons, winning the 1995 A-League championship and being named the 2000 USL Coach of the Year. Now Neil coaches for Harbor Premier in Gig Harbor.

Mike Morris (Pro Player 2006-2008, Coach 2008 – Present)
Scoring the fastest goal in Seattle Pacific University’s soccer history, Mike Morris has gone on to become the camp site director and the youth programs operations assistant for the Sounders FC. Morris also played for the 2007 Sounders USL Champion Team & the Sounders USL 2008 team. Mike currently is a head coach for several teams at Greater Renton Football Club.

Viet Nguyen  (Pro Player 1999 – 2005, Coach 1999 – 2012)
Viet Nguyen was a standout player at the University of Washington in the late 90’s. During that time he earned a spot on the United States U-20 National Team. Following his time as a Husky, he was drafted to play for the Seattle Sounders where he played 6 years in the Sounders midfield. Viet went on to develop a coaching career as one of the top technical youth coaches in the state.

Fran O’Brien  (Pro Player 1974– 1990, Coach 1992 – Present)
Born in Dublin, Ireland, Fran O’Brien played 16 years as a professional in Europe and the United States. After coming to the NASL in 1978, Fran was impressive enough to be called back to Ireland for 4 caps with the Irish National Team. He spent the next 6 years in the NASL, earning 2nd Team All-NASL before the league folded. At that point, Fran joined the Major Indoor Soccer League and eventually the Tacoma Stars for 71 appearances. O’Brien is now a coaching fixture in the Puget Sound after coaching the Tacoma Tide and currently coaching at Pac Northwest.

Leighton O’Brien  (Pro Player 1999 – 2011, Coach 2002 – Present)
Leighton O’Brien, Fran’s oldest son, was the playmaker for the Sounders USL squads in the early 2000’s. In 2002, he tied for the league lead in assists with 11 and was named the USL A-League MVP. O’Brien then played 35 matches in Sweden before returning to the Sounders to help them win two USL championships. Leighton is now the Director of Coaching for PAC NW youth soccer club.

Dennis Sanchez (Playing Career 2005-2008, Coach 2010 – Present)
Dennis Sanchez attended San Diego State University where he earned All Pac-10 Honorable Mention Honors in just his second year on the team. He was instrumental in his time with the former Tacoma Tide’s run to the Western Conference Championship in 2008. Dennis is currently the 1998 ODP Boys Head Coach for Washington State as well as the Teams Operations Assistant for the Seattle Sounders FC.

Darren Sawatzky  (Pro Player 1995 – 2004, Coach 2005 – Present)
Darren Sawatzky played in the inaugural year of Major League Soccer. His nine-year pro career took him throughout the United States and to trials in Mexico and England. Sawatzky even spent a season with the Portland Timbers…  A prolific goal scorer, Sawatzky scored 36 goals for the Sounders before joining the coaching staff as an assistant in 2007. Now Darren is the Director of Youth Development for the Sounders FC and head coach of the Sounders FC U-23.

Todd Stauber  (Pro Player 1994 – 2001, Coach 1998 – Present)
Following three final fours and a national championship with Seattle Pacific University, where he assisted on the game winning goal, Todd Stauber was drafted by the Seattle Sounders. In between outdoor seasons, Stauber played indoors for the Seattle SeaDogs and Lafayette Swampcats. Stauber also had a stint with the San Jose Clash as well as trials in Europe.  Following his playing days, Stauber has coached collegiately and on the youth level.

Erik Storkson (Pro Player 1997-2001, Coach 2004 – Present)
After walking on to the Sounders at the age of 19, Erik Storkson played with the Sounders for 7 years and logged over 4,000 minutes. One of his memorable moments was scoring the tying goal in the last minute against the Vancouver 86ers in the 1998 playoffs. Storkson currently coaches at Crossfire Premier FC as well as at Lindbergh High School.

Danny Vaughn (Pro Player 1978-1982)
A native of Tacoma, Danny Vaughn is in the Tacoma-Pierce County Sports Hall of Fame. While at the University of Washington, the captain earned, most inspirational and most valuable player awards while establishing single season and career goal-scoring records. At the professional level he played four seasons in the NASL against international stars including Franz Beckenbauer, George Best, Johan Cryuff, and Pele.

Joe Waters  (Pro Player 1971 – 1992, Coach 1990 – 2012)
Joe Waters started a professional career with 13 years in English Football with Leicester and Grimsby Town.  Waters scored two goals in his Leicester City debut in a FA Cup Quarterfinal win. Once Waters arrived in the U.S. he joined the Tacoma Stars for 358 appearances and was affectionately known as “Jumpin’ Joey Waters.” He is also a capped Republic of Ireland national teamer who now coaches high school, youth soccer, and the Tacoma Stars.

 Tacoma, WA. – Due to the Sounders FC playoff match on November 2nd, the 1st Annual “Northwest Soccer Legends Night” has moved to Friday, November 9th. In addition to the change in date, legends including Gary Heale, Chance Fry, Gerry Gray, Neil Megson, Fran O’Brien, Roger Levesque, and others have been added to the billing. These Northwest heroes will still play an indoor match at the Tacoma Soccer Center, and kickoff remains at 7pm.

The event is a rare chance for fans to get another glimpse of the top talent that has graced the area’s soccer fields through the years. The night’s feature event will be the indoor match at 7pm, where two teams made up of past pros, will compete against each other on the brand new field turf at the Tacoma Soccer Center. Before and after the game, fans and players will have the opportunity to mingle and remember the “good old days.”

The Legends’ teams are highlighted by the celebrity coaches for each side, Brian Schmetzer and Jimmy McAllister. Schmetzer had a storied career in the NASL, including three years with the Seattle Sounders. He is currently the assistant coach for the Seattle Sounders FC. McAllister was the 1977 NASL Rookie of the Year and earned six caps with the U.S. national team. He is currently the Director of Coaching for the Seattle United youth soccer club.

Fans on hand for the Friday night event can expect to see former Seattle Sounders stars from the NASL, USL, and MLS, like Taylor Graham, Danny Jackson, Scott Jenkins, Erik Storkson Leighton O’Brien, and Viet Nguyen. Along-side those players will be decades of professional experience with Sean Henderson, Neil Megson, Ezra Hendrickson, Dick McCormick, Darren Sawatzky, Chance Fry, Jason Farrell and more. Soccer fans will also recognize indoor soccer legends; Gary Heale, Joe Waters, Fran O’Brien, and Ralph Black. Please note that the appearance of Sounders FC coaches, Schmetzer and Hendrickson, is dependent on their playoff schedule.

Gates will open for the event at 5:00 pm on November 9th and tickets are $5 for all ages. Tickets will be sold at the Tacoma Soccer Center entrance on November 9th. Food and beverages are available for sale inside the facility, including the Far Post Sports Bar, overlooking the field. Fans can get their favorite players’ to sign autographs after the match. Players will stay after the game for a social event at the Tacoma Soccer Center. Fans are encouraged to hang out and reminisce with the Legends about the glory days.

The Tacoma Soccer Center is located on 2610 Bay Street, Tacoma, WA 918421. The indoor arena is located just off I-5 exit 135 toward Portland Avenue. For more information, see TacomaSoccerCenter.org .

The Legends:

HONORARY COACHES

Brian Schmetzer  (Pro Player 1980 – 1995, Coach 1995-Present)
Brian Schmetzer is currently an assistant coach with the Seattle Sounders FC of Major League Soccer. A Seattle native, Schmetzer first signed with the Seattle Sounders in 1980 straight out of high school. He went on to play in the North American Soccer League, Major Indoor Soccer League and Western Soccer League. Following his playing career, he coached the Seattle Sounders in the USL First Division for seven seasons, winning two championships. He was the 2002 USL-1 Coach of the Year.

Jimmy McAllister  (Pro Player 1976 – 1986, Coach 1988 – Present)
Jimmy McAlister was the 1977 NASL Rookie of the Year and earned six caps with the U.S. national team. As a defender for the Sounders, he was charged with marking Pele in the 1977 Soccer Bowl, a job he did well. Following a long outdoor and then indoor soccer career, McAllister took up coaching. He was recently inducted into the Washington State Youth Soccer Association Hall of Fame. In 2000, McAlister became the head coach of the Decatur High School Boys soccer team. The next season, he coached them to an undefeated season and the Washington State 4A championship. In January 2010, he returned to the city where he made his mark as a professional player, becoming the Director of Coaching of the Seattle United youth soccer club.
Players

PLAYERS

John Baretta  (Pro Player 1979 – 1988, Coach 1988 – Present)
John Baretta made his name in goal as an excellent shot stopper. The Canadian went on to play in the NASL as well as six seasons in the Major Indoor Soccer League. Three of those seasons were spent with the Tacoma Stars where John played more than 70 games and recorded over 1,000 saves as the Stars keeper. He now coaches high school soccer.

Tim Bartro (Pro Player 1982 – 1996, Coach 1997 - Present)
Recruited in the third round of the 1982 NASL draft straight out of high school, Tim Bartro made his debut in the NASL in 1983 with the Seattle Sounders. Since then, he has played with the Golden Bay Earthquakes, Tacoma Stars, Seattle Storm, Portland Timbers, and Seattle Seadogs. Bartro scored 25 goals and 30 assists during his professional career. Currently, Bartro is coaching with the Washington Premier.

Fawzi Belal  (Pro Player 2004-2012,  Coach 2012  – Present)
Fawzi Belal was a member of the Seattle Sounders from 2004-2008. He has recently suited up for the Sounders FC in reserve matches as well. This year he joined the Sounders FC U-23 coaching staff as an assistant. He has coaching experience with Washington ODP as well as the youth club, Washington Rush.

Ralph Black  (Pro Player 1981 – 1999, Coach 1997 – Present)
Ralph Black is a Scottish-born defender who is best known for his indoor soccer exploits. In an eighteen year career, playing over 400 games, Black scored more than 120 goals. From 1984 to 1989, he played 210 matches for the Tacoma Stars, scoring 45 goals. Following his career, he took the reigns as a pro indoor and then youth soccer coach, which he continues at today.

Tom Bunnell (Playing Career 1985-1987, Coach 1985- Present)
Tom Bunnell manned the posts at Western Washington University from 1985-1987. Since then he’s trained goalkeepers all over the state. Tom’s coaching resume includes stints with Seattle University and the Seattle Sounders Women. Since 2004, Tom has served as Issaquah High School Girls Varsity Head Coach where he has led the team to state titles in 2004,2006 and 2007 and captured state runner up in 2005 and 2009.

Ben Dragavon  (Pro Player 2006 – 2009, Coach 2012 – Present)
Ben Dragavon graduated from Seattle University and went on to have an extensive pro career as a goalkeeper for the USL Sounders, the Sounders FC in MLS, Columbus Crew, and Toronto FC. One of Dragavon’s biggest moments was stepping on the field for Kasey Keller in 2009 after Keller received a red card. Ben is currently the goalkeeper coach for the Sounders FC U-23.

Ray Evans (Pro Player 1967-1989)
Ray Evans is an English fullback who played for historic clubs, Fulham, Millwall, Stoke City, and Tottenham Hotspur for 14 years before coming to America. While at Spurs, he featured in both legs of the European Cup Final against Dutch giants; Feyenord. Following his career in England, Ray joined the NASL and eventually the Seattle Sounders. After a stint with the Tacoma Stars as well, Ray finished his career with the Seattle Storm in 1989.

Jason Farrell  (Pro Player 1992-2004, Coach 2004-Present)
Jason Farrell was a star forward in two stints with the Sounders and time with the Columbus Crew. Jason scored 14 goals and 17 assists in his first tour with the Seattle Sounders, helping the team win back-to-back titles in ‘95 and ‘96 before going to MLS. In Major League Soccer, Farrell scored double digits in goals and pitched in for deep playoff runs. When he returned to the Sounders in 2001, Farrell picked up right where he left off, playing 88 games and posting eight goals and 15 assists in four years. Following his playing career, he was an assistant coach for the Sounders, and is now Technical Director for Seattle United.

Chance Fry  (Pro Player 1983-1997, Coach 1999-Present)
Chance Fry’s professional career started right after high school when he joined the Seattle Sounders in 1983. He went on to play the next four years for various indoor and outdoor teams around the United States before returning to Seattle to join the Storm. He would eventually return to the Sounders and scored more goals than any other player in A-League history. Fry’s 14 year career included five caps for the U.S. National Team. Now, Chance serves as the Director of Coaching for Eastside FC.

Taylor Graham  (Pro Player 2003-2011)
Taylor Graham played for three Major League Soccer teams during his pro career. In between stints with Kansas City and New York, he was a member of the USL- Seattle Sounders. Graham was a member of the 2005 and 2007 USL-1 Seattle Sounders championship teams. He was named USL-1 Defender of the Year in ‘05 and first team All-USL-1 in ‘05 and ‘08. A graduate of Stanford University, Graham made the jump to MLS with the Sounders before moving from pitch to the Sounders Front Office. The 2009 Humanitarian of the Year is now the Manager of Business Operations with the Sounders FC.

Gerry Gray  (Pro Player 1980 – 1991, Coach 2010-2011)
Inducted into the Canadian Soccer Hall of Fame, Gerry Gray played in the 1979 FIFA World Youth Championships and the 1986 FIFA World Cup finals. Gerry has earned 34 caps and 2 goals for the Canadian National team, including his crucial World Cup Qualifying goal in the Azteca Stadium against Mexico. He was on the 1982 All-NASL 1st team while at the Vancouver Whitecaps and in-all, he scored 169 goals in outdoor and indoor soccer including 34 for the Tacoma Stars.  

Gary Heale  (Pro Player 1975 – 1995, Coach 1996 – Present)
Following an eight season European career in England and Holland, Gary Heale came to the United States in 1983. Heale played for indoor and outdoor teams including the Tacoma Stars and Seattle Sounders. In two stints with the Stars, Gary played 268 matches scoring an incredible 176 goals. Following his playing career, he took up coaching and now coaches youth soccer with Washington Premier.

Ezra Hendrickson  (Pro Player 1996-2008, Coach 2009 –Present)
A native of the island of St. Vincent in the Caribbean, Ezra Hendrickson began his career in 1997 with the New York MetroStars, before joining the Galaxy later that season. He totaled six seasons in Los Angeles, where he also won the CONCACAF Champions Cup and the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. He was also named Galaxy’s Most Valuable Player for the 2001 season. Hendrickson was a member of three MLS Cup championship teams, winning two with Sigi Schmid. Together, they won the 2002 MLS Cup with the Los Angeles Galaxy and the 2008 MLS Cup in Columbus. Ezra was also with the champion D.C. United team in 2004. He is currently an assistant coach for the Sounders FC.

Sean Henderson  (Pro Player 1994 – 2005, Coach 1999 – Present)
Sean Henderson was a two-time prep All-American at Everett's Cascade High School. He later was an NCAA champion and All-American at UCLA under Sigi Schmid. Henderson represented the U.S. at the U16, U18 and U20 national team level. He played 11 professional seasons in Germany and in the U.S. with Colorado Rapids and Seattle in the USL. Henderson began his youth coaching career in 1999 and is currently the assistant coach for the Sounders FC Youth Academy.

Scott Jenkins  (Pro Player 1996– 2005, Coaching 2006 - Present)
Listed 5th among all time leaders in appearances at the USL, Scott Jenkins amassed an amazing career with the Seattle Sounders. In 2005, Jenkins delivered the game-winning penalty kick and was awarded the Final Match Ball when the Sounders escaped with a 2-1 shootout victory over the Richmond Kickers in his last game with the Sounders for the USL Championship in front of 8,000 fans at Qwest Field.

Roger Levesque (Pro Player 2003-2012)
After playing for the Stanford Cardinals in the NCAA final and as high as 2nd Team All-American, Roger Levesque was drafted to the San Jose Earthquakes. After a knee injury, he later moved to the Seattle Sounders where he earned over 200 appearances. Roger scored 40 goals for the Sounders with some goal celebrations earning a little extra attention. He holds the record for quickest US Open Cup goal, just 48 seconds into the 2009 battle with the Portland Timbers, and later that year he notched the match winner against DC United in the Cup Final. Levesque’s final match for the Sounders was on July 18, 2012, when the Sounders played Chelsea F.C. He is now earning his MBA at the University of Washington.

Dick McCormick   (Pro Player 1988-2000, Coach 1997 – Present)
Dick McCormick is a Seattle native who played over 500 pro games and, most recently, coached some of the area’s most successful youth teams. In 13 pro seasons, McCormick was a playmaking midfielder for several indoor and outdoor clubs, including the Tacoma Stars, Seattle SeaDogs and USL Sounders. He won championships with the Sounders in 1995 and 1996, and with the SeaDogs in 1997. McCormick went on to coach under Brian Schmetzer for the USL Sounders from 2002 to 2004, and is now the Head Coach of Sounders FC Youth Academy Teams.

Neil Megson   (Pro Player 1983 – 1998, Coach 1993 – Present)
English born, but American capped, Neil Megson played 15 seasons in the NASL, Indoor Soccer, and A-League including stints with the Sounders and Stars.  He also earned two caps with the U.S. National Team in 1988. Following his playing days, Neil served as head coach to the Seattle Sounders for five seasons, winning the 1995 A-League championship and being named the 2000 USL Coach of the Year. Now Neil coaches for Harbor Premier in Gig Harbor.

Mike Morris (Pro Player 2006-2008, Coach 2008 – Present)
Scoring the fastest goal in Seattle Pacific University’s soccer history, Mike Morris has gone on to become the camp site director and the youth programs operations assistant for the Sounders FC. Morris also played for the 2007 Sounders USL Champion Team & the Sounders USL 2008 team. Mike currently is a head coach for several teams at Greater Renton Football Club.

Viet Nguyen  (Pro Player 1999 – 2005, Coach 1999 – 2012)
Viet Nguyen was a standout player at the University of Washington in the late 90’s. During that time he earned a spot on the United States U-20 National Team. Following his time as a Husky, he was drafted to play for the Seattle Sounders where he played 6 years in the Sounders midfield. Viet went on to develop a coaching career as one of the top technical youth coaches in the state.

Fran O’Brien  (Pro Player 1974– 1990, Coach 1992 – Present)
Born in Dublin, Ireland, Fran O'Brien played 16 years as a professional in Europe and the United States. After coming to the NASL in 1978, Fran was impressive enough to be called back to Ireland for 4 caps with the Irish National Team. He spent the next 6 years in the NASL, earning 2nd Team All-NASL before the league folded. At that point, Fran joined the Major Indoor Soccer League and eventually the Tacoma Stars for 71 appearances. O’Brien is now a coaching fixture in the Puget Sound after coaching the Tacoma Tide and currently coaching at Pac Northwest.

Leighton O’Brien  (Pro Player 1999 – 2011, Coach 2002 – Present)
Leighton O'Brien, Fran’s oldest son, was the playmaker for the Sounders USL squads in the early 2000’s. In 2002, he tied for the league lead in assists with 11 and was named the USL A-League MVP. O’Brien then played 35 matches in Sweden before returning to the Sounders to help them win two USL championships. Leighton is now the Director of Coaching for PAC NW youth soccer club.

Dennis Sanchez (Playing Career 2005-2008, Coach 2010 – Present)
Dennis Sanchez attended San Diego State University where he earned All Pac-10 Honorable Mention Honors in just his second year on the team. He was instrumental in his time with the former Tacoma Tide’s run to the Western Conference Championship in 2008. Dennis is currently the 1998 ODP Boys Head Coach for Washington State as well as the Teams Operations Assistant for the Seattle Sounders FC.

Darren Sawatzky  (Pro Player 1995 – 2004, Coach 2005 – Present)
Darren Sawatzky played in the inaugural year of Major League Soccer. His nine-year pro career took him throughout the United States and to trials in Mexico and England. Sawatzky even spent a season with the Portland Timbers…  A prolific goal scorer, Sawatzky scored 36 goals for the Sounders before joining the coaching staff as an assistant in 2007. Now Darren is the Director of Youth Development for the Sounders FC and head coach of the Sounders FC U-23.

Todd Stauber  (Pro Player 1994 – 2001, Coach 1998 – Present)
Following three final fours and a national championship with Seattle Pacific University, where he assisted on the game winning goal, Todd Stauber was drafted by the Seattle Sounders. In between outdoor seasons, Stauber played indoors for the Seattle SeaDogs and Lafayette Swampcats. Stauber also had a stint with the San Jose Clash as well as trials in Europe.  Following his playing days, Stauber has coached collegiately and on the youth level.

Erik Storkson (Pro Player 1997-2001, Coach 2004 – Present)
After walking on to the Sounders at the age of 19, Erik Storkson played with the Sounders for 7 years and logged over 4,000 minutes. One of his memorable moments was scoring the tying goal in the last minute against the Vancouver 86ers in the 1998 playoffs. Storkson currently coaches at Crossfire Premier FC as well as at Lindbergh High School.

Danny Vaughn (Pro Player 1978-1982)
A native of Tacoma, Danny Vaughn is in the Tacoma-Pierce County Sports Hall of Fame. While at the University of Washington, the captain earned, most inspirational and most valuable player awards while establishing single season and career goal-scoring records. At the professional level he played four seasons in the NASL against international stars including Franz Beckenbauer, George Best, Johan Cryuff, and Pele.

Joe Waters  (Pro Player 1971 – 1992, Coach 1990 – 2012)
Joe Waters started a professional career with 13 years in English Football with Leicester and Grimsby Town.  Waters scored two goals in his Leicester City debut in a FA Cup Quarterfinal win. Once Waters arrived in the U.S. he joined the Tacoma Stars for 358 appearances and was affectionately known as “Jumpin’ Joey Waters.” He is also a capped Republic of Ireland national teamer who now coaches high school, youth soccer, and the Tacoma Stars.

HONRARY REFEREE

Teddy Mitalas (Pro Player 1981 – 1986, Coach 1990 – Present)
Including a professional playing career in Greece and the United States, Teddy Mitalas has received many accolades over the years including being inducted into the WA State Soccer Association Hall of Fame in 2008, WA State Youth Soccer Association President’s Award in 2009, and in 2010 was awarded the Golden Scarf Award by the Sounders FC. Teddy is now a high school and premier club coach and newly hired as the Sounders Women Director of Community Relations.

(Sean Okoli (right) in action for Sounders U-23 this summer - Photos by Chris Coulter, SoundersPhotos.com)

Sean Okoli Honored as Disney Soccer/NSCAA Player of the Week

Sean Okoli was an integral part of the Sounders FC U-23 success this past summer. With summer gone, the product of the Sounders Academy currently applies his soccer skills at Wake Forest University. After scoring a hat-trick against North Carolina State, Okoli was elected the college player of the week throughout the entire United States.

Currently, he leads the Demon Deacons with 17 points and a team-leading eight goals this season. The Federal Way native scored his first career hat-trick this past weekend, and was named the Disney Soccer/NSCAA Player of the Week.

CLICK HERE to read the entire article about Okoli's honor from the NSCAA.com