Success on Three Fronts

2011 – Around the World and Close to Home

Osama bin Laden, the world’s foremost terrorist, is found and killed by U.S troops and CIA operatives in Pakistan. Japan is hit by an enormous, 9.0 earthquake that triggers a 23-foot tsunami and kills nearly 16,000. Atlantis becomes the 135th and final space shuttle mission for NASA. Japan defeats the U.S. Women’s National Team in a World Cup final decided by penalties. In Washington, demolition of Seattle’s Alaskan Way Viaduct’s southern mile begins after voters approve a $2 billion Highway 99 tunnel. Amanda Knox’s murder conviction is overturned in Perugia, Italy. Work begins on the $250 million renovation of Husky Stadium.

Success on Three Fronts

Seemingly every aspect of the Sounders evolution moved forward in 2011 – except the most coveted. The Rave Green got no closer to an MLS championship than their first two seasons. Instead, the third-year team hoisting a trophy was across Puget Sound, in Bremerton.

Once more, the region’s appetite for top-flight professional matches proved practically insatiable. Sounders attendance climbs yet again, boosted by CenturyLink Field’s upper deck being opened for the final home date. The new MLS record average is 38,498 – and that excludes the new Pacific Northwest record of 67,052 for the Manchester United summer friendly.

On the field, Seattle progresses on three fronts. In league, where the season has been expanded from 30 to 34 fixtures, the Sounders average 1.85 points and finish just four points off the L.A. Galaxy’s Supporters’ Shield pace. They also claim the first all-MLS version of the Cascadia Cup, going unbeaten (2-0-2) versus Portland and Vancouver. Seattle continues to own the U.S. Open Cup, becoming the first MLS club to win three in a row, and doing so before another tournament record attendance for the final, a 2-0 win over Chicago.

Nobody in MLS wins more league matches (nine) on the road, and that resolve is also evident elsewhere on the continent. Seattle claims seven of a possible nine points in CONCACAF Champions League group stage play, most notably a victory at holders Monterrey while resting several key starters. That secures passage to the knockout rounds in the spring.

Still, the Sounders are unable to mount a playoff run. They lose their opener, 3-0, at Real Salt Lake and are unable to compensate in the home leg, despite earning their first win, 2-0. That clean sheet comes courtesy of a homegrown American legend. Kasey Keller ends his career at age 41. After roaming Europe for 16 years, the Sounders’ emergence allowed him to experience the game at home for the final three seasons. More than 64,000 witness a signature performance by Keller against San Jose, punctuated by an award-winning quadruple save and comeback win.

While a championship proves elusive for Seattle, the Kitsap Pumas are not to be denied. Under Peter Fewing, the Pumas not only win their division, they win three of their postseason matches by shutout, becoming the state’s first PDL champions.

Year in Review
SEATTLE SOUNDERS
Season Record
18-7-9, 2nd West Conf. MLS 1st rnd
Coach
Sigi Schmid (3rd year)
Best XI
Kasey Keller
Top Scorer
Fredy Montero (12 goals)
U.S. Open Cup
Seattle Sounders, champion Kitsap Pumas, 3rd rnd
COLLEGIATE
Men's Collegiate Postseason
Seattle Pacific, D2 2nd rnd Pacific Lutheran, D3 1st rnd
Women's Collegiate Postseason
Washington State, D1 2nd rnd Seattle Pacific, D2 2nd rnd Puget Sound, D3 1st rnd
Men's Conference Champions
Pacific Lutheran, NWC
Women's Conference Champions
Seattle Pacific, GNAC Puget Sound, NWC
NWAC Men's Champion
Chemeketa d Olympic 2-1
NWAC Women's Champion
Walla Walla d Peninsula 1-0
YOUTH
Boys Regional Champion
Eastside 94 Red (U16)
Largest Attendance
67,052, CenturyLink Field, Sounders v Manchester United (friendly)

2011: Success on Three Fronts

Sounders continue to make history, but the elusive championship goes to the little club across the Sound, Kitsap Pumas.

North Thurston Honors Keller
March 22, 2011

North Thurston High School retires Kasey Keller’s No. 18 jersey. Keller was a prep All-American for the Rams, graduating in 1988. It’s a huge honor," Keller said. "I had a lot of fond memories of my time at North Thurston. I played a lot of my club ball in Federal Way, and it was a chance to play with my friends. We had a good time, and we had a good team."

Falcons Move Advance in NCAA
November 10, 2011

Brooke Yokers stops eight shots and Brandi Hamre scores just 37 after entering the game to ignite Seattle Pacific's 4-0 first-round win over Grand Canyon at the NCAA Division II Far West Regional in Los Angeles. Hamre's goal is her fourth in six games. The No. 5 Falcons, who also get two goals from Megan Lindsay, win their 10th match in a row. They fall to host Cal State L.A., 2-1, Nov. 12.

Keller Stars Before 64,000
October 15, 2011

A quadruple save from Kasey Keller and two late goals by Sammy Ochoa and Fredy Montero thrill the third-largest stand-alone crowd in MLS history with a 2-1 comeback win over San Jose. Playing his final home regular season match before 64,140, Keller is in vintage form with seven saves, including the 65th-minute flurry which keep the Sounders within a goal. Keller, 41, has announced he will retire at the end of the season.

Walla Walla Women Threepeat
November 20, 2011

Kaylie Winston finds the net seconds before halftime and Walla Walla go on to win an unprecedented third straight NWAACC women's title, 1-0, over Peninsula at Starfire Sports Stadium. It's the 51st goal in two seasons for Winston, and the Warriors (21-0-1) are 154-6-6 since Chad Bodnar became coach in 2005.

Solo Named to World Cup Squad
May 9, 2011

Hope Solo is among three players with Washington connections named by Pia Sundhage to the U.S. World Cup squad. Solo will play in her second World Cup when U.S. matches begin June 28. Gig Harbor resident Stephanie Cox and Amy LePeilbet, who was born in Spokane, will make their first appearance.

Seattle Unified Soccer League Kicks Off
April 30, 2011

Eight Seattle Public Schools high schools begin round-robin play in the inaugural season of the Seattle Unified Soccer League at Interbay. SPS is partnered with Washington Special Olympics, which describes the international Unified Sports program as being for teams that include players “with and without intellectual disabilities,” training and playing together. Prior to play, the opening ceremonies include a March to the Match. Participating schools include Ballard, Cleveland, Chief Sealth, Ingraham, Nathan Hale, NOVA, Rainier Beach and West Seattle.

Everett Police Conduct Casino Road Camp
June 20, 2011

The third annual Casino Road Futbol Academy attracts 470 youth for a weeklong day camp at Walter E. Hall Park. Organized by Everett police Lt. Manuel Garcia, the camp is run with 200 volunteers. In addition to instruction and games, kids, some in foster care, also learn about the importance of education and alternatives to gangs and violence.

New Era Begins for Huskies
August 27, 2011

Washington gives new coach Jamie Clark a win in his first outing, a 3-0 verdict at Gonzaga. Clark is the first new coach since 1992. Brent Richards supplies two second-half goals and the Huskies start 3-0-2.

Solo, Cox Factor in U.S. Win
July 2, 2011

Hope Solo makes four saves to earn her second straight shutout in the 3-0 USWNT win over Colombia in group play in Sinsheim, Germany. For Solo it's her eighth straight shutout in all competitions. Stephanie Cox sees her first action of the tournament, as a second-half substitute for Amy LePeilbet, and on Cox's first touch she crosses to Carli Lloyd for the third goal.

Neagle Hat Trick Among Sounders' Six
August 27, 2011

Lamar Neagle’s hat trick leads the onslaught as Seattle erupts for a club-record six goals against Columbus, its third straight win and part of an five-match wins streak across all competitions. Neagle put Seattle up after just four minutes and, following a Mauro Rosales penalty, makes it 3-0 on a 21' volley. His hat trick is completed with a 71' banger from the top of the box. Columbus’s Jeff Cunningham becomes the MLS career scoring leader on a second-half penalty.

Port Vale Prevails in Kitsap Friendly
July 17, 2011

England's Port Vale defeat Kitsap Pumas, 1-0, at Bremerton, wrapping-up the U.S. portion the of League Two side's first North American tour. The Valiants defeat each win all three friendlies, including North Sound (3-1) and Tacoma (4-2). At a clinic sponsored by the Tacoma Pierce County Junior Soccer Association, head Port Vale coach Micky Adams and his staff joined with Tide head coach Gerry Gray in a simulated practice session and chalk talk and Washington Premier's complex.

Alonso Puts Sounders Thru in CCL
September 27, 2011

Osvaldo Alonso converts a rebound equalizer in the 89th minute as Seattle secures passage to the Champions League knockout stage by drawing, 2-2, at Comunicaciones. Alonso had also tied it at 1-1 in the 44th minute on a deflected drive from outside the box. Down 1-nil since 7th minute, along Zach Scott throw deflects into Alonso's path. Now 3-1-1 in group play, Seattle is assured of advancing with one game remaining.

Schultz Puts SPU Closer to Berth
October 29, 2011

Seattle Pacific appears postseason-bound for the first time in five years after bumping off Western Washington, 2-1 in overtime at Interbay. Tyler Schultz's 6-yard header with 46 seconds remaining in the first extra period earns SPU its 12th win in the last 15 games. Schultz has six goals in the last four wins and 14th overall.

Solo Saves But Japan Prevails
June 17, 2011

Hope Solo reaches a number of milestones but a FIFA World Cup championship remains elusive as Japan prevails over the United States in a shootout, 2-2 (3-1) in Frankfurt, Germany. Twice Japan fights back from a goal down. In penalties, Solo saves in the second round and gets a hand on Japan's third shot but still gets in the net. She is awarded the Gold Glove, Bronze Ball and a place on the all-tournament team. Solo became only the second USWNT keeper to reach 100 caps July 13 vs. France.

Sounders Threepeat in Open Cup
October 4, 2011

Fredy Montero snaps a scoreless tie in the 78th minute and Osvaldo Alonso adds an insurance tally deep into stoppage time as the Sounders become the first MLS club to win three consecutive Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup championships with a 2-0 win over the Chicago Fire. A tournament-record crowd of 35,615 witnesses Seattle become the first club in 42 years and the fourth in the Open Cup's 98-year history to win three years in a row. Montero's goal, his 16th in all competitions and fifth in the last four matches, came after Sounders FC had twice hit the post.

WSU Ousts Kentucky in Shootout
November 12, 2011

For the first time in Washington State's 23 seasons of varsity play, the outcome is decided in penalty kicks. The Cougars come from behind for the fifth time to oust Kentucky via a shootout, 1-1 (4-2) in an NCAA first round game at Lexington. Ali Fenter brings the visitors level in the 57th minute, and Bethanie Skelton and Mesa Owsley convert the final two penalties to secure the victory.

Flaco Scores 1st MLS Cascadia Goal
May 11, 2011

Alvaro Fernandez's goal early in the second half is enough to earn the Seattle Sounders FC a 1-1 draw with the Portland Timbers in the initial meeting between the two MLS clubs in a match played in heavy rain in front of a record 36,593 fans and a national television audience

Woodward Earns 200th Seattle U Win
September 18, 2011

Julie Woodward records her 200th career win with her alma mater as Seattle University drops San Diego State, 3-1, at the Nike Invitational in Las Vegas. Stephanie Verdoia scores the go-ahead goal in the 60th minute in the Redhawks' third straight win.

Nixon's Late Goal Salvages Saints' Draw
October 15, 2011

Xan Nixon scores in the 88th minute and Saint Martin’s earns a 2-2 draw at Montana State Billings. It’s the record 30th career goal for Nixon, who also scores a first-half goal for the Saints.

Sounders Snap RSL Streak
May 28, 2011

Lamar Neagle scores his first-career MLS goal and Patrick Ianni adds another, giving the Sounders a 2-1 victory over a 10-man Real Salt Lake at Rio Tinto Stadium. Ianni ends Salt Lake's 409-minute shutout streak at 71', and Neagle rips a rising drive past Nick Rimando in the 84th. RSL sees its MLS record 29-game home-unbeaten streak snapped while Seattle begins an 11-game unbeaten run (8-0-3) across all competitions.

Sounders Beat Defending Champs
July 16, 2011

Fredy Montero and Mauro Rosales score in the 82nd and 84th minutes, spurring Sounders FC to a comeback win over the reigning MLS Cup champion Colorado, 4-3, in front of a national television audience and 36,424 fans. It is the first Seattle home match played on grass (installed for Manchester United friendly).

Cascadia Cup Win Starts Journey
September 24, 2011

A brilliant second-half brace from Fredy Montero clinches the Cascadia Cup for Seattle with a 3-1 comeback win over Vancouver at Empire Field. It’s a positive start to a huge travel week for Sounders FC, which also clinches a third straight playoff berth. Beginning with the bus ride north, Seattle will travel 9,000 miles in all, with stops in Guatemala City and New England.

Rosales, Neagle Steal Win at SKC
August 6, 2011

Seattle Sounders rally in the final minutes to become first visitor to win, 2-1, at newly-opened Livestrong Park. Mauro Rosales and Lamar Neagle score in the 90th and 92nd minutes to snap Sporting Kansas City's league-best 14-game unbeaten streak. Sigi Schmid also becomes first coach in MLS history to reach 150 career victories.

Solo Earns Celebrity Status
August 29, 2011

In the weeks following the World Cup, Hope Solo's profile elevates to celebrity status. Solo is announced as a contestant in ABC's Dancing with the Stars and eventually reaches the semifinals with partner partner Maksim Chmerkovskiy. She posed for ESPN The Magazine's Body Issue and signed multiyear endorsement deals with Gatorade, Bank of America, BlackBerry, Ubisoft and Electronic Arts.

SPU Wins Third GNAC in a Row
October 27, 2011

First-half goals from Brandi Hamre and Kellie Zakrzewski pace Seattle Pacific to a 2-1 victory at Northwest Nazarene, clinching the Falcons' third straight GNAC regular season title. SPU wins its seventh in a row and clinches an NCAA tournament berth for the eighth straight year.

Wodajo, Lutes Win 10th Straight
October 28, 2011

Surafel Wodajo assists on two first-half goals as Pacific Lutheran wins 6-0 at Pacific in Forest Grove, Or. It’s the 10th win in a row for the Lutes. Wadajo connects with Chad Kearns on a quick combination in the 14th minute, and Spencer Augustin scores in the 23rd minute. Wodajo sets a PLU record with 16 assists and graduates as the career leader with 37.

Northwest Sets New Win Standard
November 5, 2011

Edgar Esquevil scores an ice-breaking goal at the hour mark and later adds an assist in Northwest University's record-breaking 11th win of the year, 3-0 over Cascade Conference leading Corban, in Kirkland. The Eagles, winning six of the final eight regular season games, finish three points behind Corban but manage a season series sweep.

UW Hires Clark
January 26, 2011

Jamie Clark, formerly at Harvard and Creighton, is named Washington men’s ninth head coach, replacing Dean Wurzberger, who resigned following the 2010 season. Clark guided Creighton to a 13-5-2 mark and the second round of the 2010 NCAA tournament. From 2008-09 his Harvard teams went 25-9-1and made two NCAA appearances.

Bellingham United is Born
February 14, 2011

Bellingham United is formed, with plans to play in a yet-to-be-determined adult amateur men’s league in 2012. The club is owned by Jeff McIntyre and Erin O'Brien, founders of Seattle-based Ruffneck Scarves.

Seattle Rallies to Win in Portland
July 10, 2011

Fredy Montero scores two second-half goals and Osvaldo Alonso converts the game-winner on an 83rd-minute penalty kick as Seattle rallies for 3-2 away victory over Portland at JELD-WEN Field. Twice the Timbers go ahead on deflected shots, but Montero quickly responds, his first on a 25-yard free kick. The Sounders push their unbeaten streak to eight league games.

Rowe Brace Leads U20s to First
April 2, 2011

Kelyn Rowe of Federal Way scores a brace for the U.S. to beat Panama, 2-0, and take first in Group B at the Concacaf U20 Championship in Guatemala City. Each of Rowe's goals come in the first 20 minutes. He had a goal and assist Mar. 29 versus Suriname. Host Guatemala eliminates the U.S., 2-1, in the quarterfinals Apr. 6.

Skyline Blanks Bellarmine in 4A
November 19, 2011

Defender Lianna Simms, an injury replacement on the back line, connects on a free kick in the 22nd minute as No. 1 Skyline turns back Bellarmine Prep, 1-0, in the 4A state championship match. It's the fourth shutout in four playoff games for Skyline, which posted the school's first unbeaten season (18-0-2)in school history.

New Ownership for Sounders Women, Tide
November 8, 2011

Mike Jennings and Tacoma Football Club transfer of ownership of the PDL Tide and W-League Seattle Sounders Women to Lane Smith and Cliff McElroy. Jennings maintains a minority stake in clubs, and the USL approves the sale of both.

Tacoma, Sounders Great Passes
July 7, 2011

Tacoma native and all-time NASL Sounders scoring leader Mark Peterson dies suddenly of unknown cause at 51. Signed by Seattle out of Wilson High School and Norpoint Royals, Peterson went on to play for the U.S. National Team and Tacoma Stars before coaching in North Tacoma SC. At 22, he was the 1982 NASL North American Player of the Year and totaled 61 goals in all competitions in four seasons with the Sounders.

PLU Clinches NCAA Berth
October 30, 2011

Chad Kearns scores twice and assists on Pacific Lutheran's third goal in a tournament berth-clinching, 3-0 win at George Fox in Newberg, Ore. The Lutes tie for first with Whitworth but swept the Pirates for the NWC tiebreaker and NCAA Division III automatic berth. PLU last reached a national tournament stage in NAIA in 1992.

Pumas Win Western Conference
July 31, 2011

Kitsap Pumas score in the final minute to capture their first PDL Western Conference championship, 1-0 over the host Fresno Fuego. Daniel Scott scores and Bryan Meredith saves a penalty kick in stoppage time. Kitsap not only advances to the PDL finals but will host.

Eastlake Blanks Neighbor Skyline in 4A
May 28, 2011

In a state 4A boys' final between two schools separated by just over a mile, Eastlake defeats its Sammamish neighbor Skyline, 2-0, at Lakewood. The Wolves get second-half goals from Brandon McComb and Sean Klauer for their third victory over the Spartans. It's their third title but first since repeating in 1997. Klauer finds McComb for a short chip at 46' and then hammers home a rebound at 58'.

Eastside FC Places 3rd Nationally
July 31, 2011

Three-time state champion Eastside FC 94 Red, coached by Dan Strom, takes third place in the USYSA U16 Boys finals in Phoenix, losing out on a place in the final on goal differential.

Key Date
Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs following a friendly attended by over 67,000

We've been told that Seattle fans are the best in the MLS, and I think we witnessed that tonight.

Tacoma Tide Rolls North
May 13, 2011

After playing five seasons at Curtis High School in University Place, the Tacoma Tide adopts Stadium Bowl as its new PDL home. A late Daniel Gray penalty secures a 2-2 draw with the North Sound SeaWolves before a record gathering of 226.

Keller, Rosales Take MLS Awards
November 15, 2011

Kasey Keller is named MLS Goalkeeper of the Year and Mauro Rosales is Newcomer of the Year. Keller, 41, played every minute of his final season and led all keepers with 18 wins while making a career-high 110 saves. His 1.09 goals against average tied for fifth and his nine shutouts tied for third-most. Rosales finished third in MLS with 13 assists – a new club record – and added five goals.

Camas Blanks Bainbridge in 3A
May 28, 2011

A Nathan Beasley first-half brace paves the way for a 3-0 Camas victory over Bainbridge for the boy's 3A crown in Lakewood. Beasley, who also scored in the semifinal win over Southridge, scores in the 19th and 29th minutes. The Papermakers' shutout is the 14th of the year and fourth in five postseason games. Parker Roland also tallies for Camas (20-1-0), which collects its third state championship in six years.

Solo Stars as USA Advances
July 10, 2011

In a World Cup classic, Hope Solo helps the shorthanded United States fight back to eliminate Brazil, 2-2 (5-3) in Dresden, Germany, and move onto the semifinals. Playing with 10 following a red card in the 68th minute, the USWNT extends Brazil to overtime and then, on Abby Wambach's equalizer in stoppage time, penalties. Solo makes a one-handed stop of Daiane in the third round, allowing Ali Krieger to convert the winning shootout attempt.

Sounders Women Fall in W-League Semi
July 29, 2011

The Seattle Sounders Women push until the final whistle but cannot overcome a 3-nil deficit and lose to the undefeated Ottawa Fury, 3-2, in the W-League semifinals at Starfire Stadium. League MVP Mallory Outerbridge scores a brace against the depleted (five season-ending injuries) Sounders. Jocelyn Charette and Justi Baumgardt-Yamada bring the hosts within a goal by the 88th minute. After a 2-1 consolation game loss to Vancouver, Seattle finishes fourth.

White Stopped by Blood Clot
April 28, 2011

Sounders forward O’Brian White, in midst of scoring surge with two goals and two assists in four games, undergoes surgery for blood clot in leg.

Skagit, Camano Feed the Hungry
December 24, 2011

Skagit Valley Youth Soccer Association and the Stanwood Camano Youth Soccer Club compete in Kicking Hunger food drive which collects nearly 1,500 pounds of donations for local food banks.

Record Crowd Sees Cougs Hold No. 4 UCLA
October 14, 2011

A boisterous record crowd in Pullman urges Washington State to hold No. 4-ranked UCLA to a scoreless draw. The Cougars, before 1,652 fans, move into second place in the Pac-12 as redshirt freshman Gurveen Clair, facing 29 shots, makes five saves. A month earlier WSU tied then-No. 4 Virginia, 0-0, on the road with Clair making four stops.

Sounders Stopped Again
November 2, 2011

A second-half surge fueled by goals from Osvaldo Alonso and Lamar Neagle secures the first-ever postseason win for the Sounders, however it’s not enough to advance. Seattle loses, 3-2 on aggregate, to Real Salt Lake in the Western Conference Semifinals. Numerous missed first-half opportunities keep it scoreless at halftime. Alonso's 56' penalty is followed five minutes later by Neagle finishing a Fredy Montero pass. The best remaining chance was Alonso's in the 78th minute. The Sounders dominate throughout, finishing with a 26-4 advantage in shots. Alonso had an open look in the 78th minute and fired high. Seattle sustained it worst loss of the season, 3-0, in the Oct. 29 first leg.

SPU Works Overtime in NCAA Opener
November 10, 2011

Christopher Morris heads in a long free kick from Evan Robicheau just 79 seconds into overtime, and 13th-ranked Seattle Pacific knocks out longtime postseason rival Cal State Dominguez Hills in a first-round NCAA game at Interbay. It's the Falcons first playoff win since 2005. The Toros, who won eight straight versus SPU, including elimination games in 2000 and '05, forced overtime by equalizing with 4 seconds left in regulation.

Seattle U Relieves Agoos of Duties
November 10, 2011

Seattle University relieves Brad Agoos of his duties as men's head coach. Agoos just completed his sixth year, finishing with an overall record of 49-49-9, including 2-13-2 in the final season. The Redhawks were 11-35-6 since becoming members of the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation, and did not qualify for the six-team conference postseason tournament for the second straight year.

Pumas Play Minnows to Sounders' Sharks
June 28, 2011

Bremerton's semi-pro Kitsap Pumas hold their own against the Sounders in a third-round U.S. Open Cup match at Starfire Stadium. Mike Fucito scores past former Seattle draft pick Bryan Meredith in the 39th and 61st minutes. Nik Besagno pulls the Pumas a goal back at 71'. The game also features brothers Daniel (Kitsap) and Zach Scott (Seattle) on opposite sides.

Rowe Stars for U.S. U20s
March 29, 2011

Federal Way’s Keyln Rowe opens his U.S. U20 National Team account with a hat trick in 4-0 win over Suriname in Guatemala City. A freshman at UCLA, Rowe then scores two more in 2-0 win over Panama. He was named Pac-10 Freshman of the Year after scoring seven goals and 10 assists for the Bruins.

Loggers Lock-Up 10th Straight NWC Title
November 5, 2011

Early second-half strikes from Kylie Beeson and Christine Isabella break open Puget Sound's 5-0 swamping of Pacific in the regular season closer at Baker Stadium. It secures the Loggers' 10th straight NWC championship after moving into first a day earlier, ahead of Linfield. After Mikaela Freeman’s 29’ opener, Beeson and Isabella score at 47’ and 50 for a 3-nil lead.

Kitsap Pumas Reign Over PDL
August 6, 2011

Robby Christner scores in 11th minute from Bryan Burke and Bryan Meredith posts shutout as Kitsap Pumas beats Laredo Heat, 1-0, to win PDL Championship at home. The PDL finals attract 2,657 to Bremerton Memorial Stadium over two days. Kitsap allows only one goal total in four postseason matches, finishing 16-1-3 in league and playoffs.

Cascadia Cup's MLS Era Begins
May 14, 2011

Rain, tifo, away support and a tight contest: The first Cascadia Cup match of the all-MLS era begins with the Sounders and Timbers drawing 1-1 before a Seattle record crowd for a league match (36,593) at Qwest Field. Alvaro Fernandez delivers the first blow in the 52nd minute, but Mamadou Danso answers in the 65th.

Lutes Edge Pirates Behind Augustin
October 15, 2011

Spencer Augustin's goal stands for the difference between Northwest Conference frontrunners Pacific Lutheran and Whitworth. Augustin one-touches a Chad Kearns cross into the net in the 31st minute for his 12th of the campaign, and Joe Rayburn is forced to make just one save at Parkland.

Brockway Helps FSU Advance in NCAAs
November 11, 2011

Tiana Brockway seals Florida State's 2-0 first-round NCAA win over Samford with a goal in the 65th minute. Brockway, a junior defender from Tacoma, weaves her way through defenders down the middle of the field before firing into the upper left corner of the net from 17 yards. She's was part of the Seminole defense that holds Samford to a single shot. FSU goes on to reach the College Cup for the first time since 2007.

Seattle Only 2nd to Win in Mexico
August 23, 2011

Alvaro Fernandez scores the first-half winner and Terry Boss earns a clean sheet as Sounders beat reigning Champions League winner Monterrey, 1-0, in a group stage match at Estadio Tecnologico. Despite resting Fredy Montero, Kasey Keller and Mauro Rosales, Seattle becomes the second MLS club to win a competitive match in 50 tries on Mexican soil. It also snaps a 13-match unbeaten run in CCL for Monterrey.

Mexico-Ecuador Friendly Attracts 50,000
May 28, 2011

Mexico's El Tri pulls 50,305 from across the region for a festive 1-1 friendly with Ecuador at Qwest Field. With plentiful sunshine and constant din of vuvuzelas, Mexico dominates (14-2 in shots), yet only can count a 7' goal from Jorge Torres Nilo. Ecuado equalizes before halftime through Michael Arroyo. Giovani Dos Santos and Aldo De Nigris have good looks for El Tri in the final 10 minutes, but each shoot over the crossbar.

Rowe Scores But Bruins Go Out
December 9, 2011

Kelyn Rowe scores to give UCLA a late lead, but No. 1 North Carolina comes back to force extra time and eventually advances to the NCAA College Cup final via a shootout, 2-2 (3-1). The Tar Heels proceed to win the national championship over Charlotte. Rowe completes a give-and-go in the 74th minute for a 2-1 lead. He also has two assists in the Bruins' 3-0 win over Rutgers in the Round of 16.

Vancouver Girls Win U.S. Club Cup
July 25, 2011

Vancouver United Soccer Alliance Timbers win the girls U17 Premier Division title at U.S. Club Soccer National Cup Finals in Boise. Maddi Barton and Kristen Berry score first-half goals, leading Van United to a 2-1 win over the Scorpions of St. Croix, Minn.

No. 19 Washington Snubbed by NCAA
November 14, 2011

Despite being ranked 19th nationally, Washington is bypassed by the NCAA selection committee for a second straight year. The Huskies (12-4-2) won seven of their last eight games, losing only to No. 10 UCLA. The Bruins won the Pac-12 and are the only team in the NCAA tournament.

Sounders Sign Rosales, Nkufo Exits
March 18, 2011

Two days after Seattle parts ways with striker Designated Player Blaise Nkufo, Argentine winger Mauro Rosales is signed following a lengthy trial. Nkufo, who scored five times in the second half of 2010, comes off the Sounders roster minutes before the season opener and retires March 28. Rosales comes north after four years at River Plate. He earned a gold medal at the 2004 Olympics and has 10 caps.

Jaqua Lifts Sounders in CONCACAF
August 3, 2011

Nate Jaqua's extra-time goal proves to be the series winner as Seattle tops Panama's San Francisco FC, 2-0 (2-1 aggregate), in the second and deciding leg of the CONCACAF Champions League preliminary round, in front of 21,233 fans at CenturyLink Field. Alvaro Fernandez relieves some of the pressure with a 41' header to tie the aggregate. Jaqua, a second-half substitute, takes an entry ball from Fernandez and thumps it just below the crossbar in the 98th minute.

Loggers Overtaken by Cobbers
November 12, 2011

Despite a strong start, Puget Sound is eventually caught and then knocked out by Concordia-Moorehead in a first-round NCAA playoff at Thousand Oaks, Ca. Jenny Moore puts UPS ahead after 18 minutes on a solo effort. Yet the Cobbers tie it in the 75th minute and convert their first three penalties, advancing 1-1 (3-1). The Loggers' first two shootout attempts are saved.

Rowe Voted Pac-12 Player of the Year
November 15, 2011

Federal Way's Keyln Rowe, a sophomore at UCLA, is named Pac-12 Player of the Year after finishing as the league's leader in assists (10). Rowe also scored six goals as the Bruins completed a perfect (10-0-0) season in Pac-12 play.

Eastside Dominates, Wins Regional
June 26, 2011

Eastside FC 94 Red completes a dominating display at the Far West Regional by blanking Cal North's Tigres, 2-0, in the final at Boise. Kyle Bjornethun and Maxwell Harvey score in the final, reversing a loss to Tigres a year earlier. Eastside finishes with a 19-1 goal differential for the week.

Potter Leaves WSU for Oklahoma
December 27, 2011

After guiding Washington State to NCAA tournament appearances in three of the last four seasons, Matt Potter leaves Pullman for Oklahoma. Potter was 88-69-22 in nine seasons at WSU. The back-to-back trips to the postseason in 2008-09 were a first in program history and the Cougars advanced to the second round in 2009 and 2011 while attendance more than doubled during his tenure.

Prep Finishes Unbeaten
November 19, 2011

After giving up two goals in the first six minutes, No. 2-ranked Seattle Prep rallies for a 3-2 victory over No. 3 Liberty of Issaquah to capture a second straight 3A state girls championship. The Panthers (20-0-2), in the title game for the fifth time in six years, had allowed only eight goals all season and never more than one in any match. Kaylynn Huebner heads in the game-winner five minutes before halftime.

Arlington Girls Fill Baskets for Care Center
April 22, 2011

Girls from Arlington's U14 Renegade FC use break training to instead fill about 50 Easter baskets with candy and small gifts and dye hard-boiled eggs for residents at Marysville Care Center, a nursing home. Club President Roy Berry says the team eagerly got behind the service project idea. "They like getting together outside of playing soccer. It's about more than just soccer, it's about developing the kids into being good people, too."

Kitsap, Fewing part Ways
October 26, 2011

After two seasons and a championship, the Kitsap Pumas and coach Peter Fewing part ways. Fewing guided the Pumas to the PDL playoffs in both 2010 and 2011, finishing with a league championship and a 24-3-5 record. He had been been commuting between his Seattle home and Bremerton while operating his soccer camps and serving as a Sounders broadcaster.

Zakuani's Season Ended by Reckless Tackle
April 22, 2011

Sounders winger Steve Zakuani suffers a season-ending injury during a Good Friday 1-0 win at Colorado. Less than three minutes into the game, Rapids veteran Brian Mullan runs down and slide-tackles Zakuani, fracturing his right fibula and tibia. Zakuani, Seattle's co-leader in goals and assists, is immediately taken away by ambulance. Mullan is shown a straight red card and, a week later, is given the longest suspension in MLS history, 10 games, for a foul judged to be "reckless, egregious and showed utter disregard for the safety of his opponent."

Man United Swamps Sounders
July 20, 2011

The largest crowd in Pacific Northwest soccer history, 67,052, gathers for the Sounders friendly with English Premier League champion Manchester United, who run rampant on Seattle reserves in second half for 7-0 outcome. Wayne Rooney, a non-starter, scores three of United's six second-half goals. Seattle actually out-shoots United 10-9 in the first half, yet only the visitors' Michael Owen scores. Against Seattle's second team, Rooney blows open the game, scoring three times and assisting Ji-Sung Park in a span of 21 minutes to make it 6-nil.

NU Women Earn 11th Victory
November 5, 2011

Jessica Olivers scores twice in the first 14 minutes and Northwest University goes on to beat Southern Oregon, 2-1, for a program-best 11th win at Ashland. It's the Eagles' fourth straight win and its three more wins than ever before. Just two years prior, NU won only three times.

Levesque Stars as Sounders Go Upper Deck
June 23, 2011

Roger Levesque provides the finishing touches and a memorable celebration to the Sounders' 4-2 victory over New York to send a big crowd home happy. Seattle opens the entire upper deck of Qwest Field for the first time for an MLS match, and the attendance of 46,065 is nearly 10,000 greater than any previous MLS home match. Levesque subs after the Red Bulls' tying goal and has an immediate impact, heading in a 67th-minute corner kick. He seals the win at 78' by stealing the ball from New York goalkeeper Greg Sutton, knocking it into an empty net and enacting a scuba dive off the signage board.

I’m not that caught up in the labelsI’d rather allow someone else to call themselves Soccer City USA if we have the most season-ticket holders and the best fans and the best corporate support and the best team on the field. I think really the numbers should speak for themselves. We hope to maintain the best soccer business and the best soccer fans in the United States and let the media decide who Soccer City USA is.
Sounders owner and GM Adrian Hanauer on Portland's claim to be America's soccer city
I'm just humbled. I'm humbled not just for what the club has done for me and given me the opportunity to come home and finish my career back home in something that is just so incredibly special. You can ask my friends who were able to fly out, guys who've played around the world and they just can't believe it. They just are so proud of what's going on here in Seattle and I'm just proud to be a small piece of it.
Sounders goalkeeper Kasey Keller after his quadruple save helps defeat San Jose in his final regular season appearance at home
She provides a ton of energy and has endurance like you wouldn't believe. And she is great with our kids. She doesn't try and parent them. She blends in as much as she can.
Adam Fenster, Evergreen College women’s coach, referring to Deirdre Morris Dornay of Mercer Island, age 40, his new starting midfielder
I need to apologize to our fans because I thought we embarrassed ourselves in the second half, not to take anything away from Man United because they're a great team. They scored some great goals and their movement was superb. We wanted to reward all the guys on the team, wanted to play everybody. I think in retrospect that was a mistake.
Sigi Schmid after Sounders are drubbed, 7-0, by Manchester United in friendly
It's tremendous. It's a great win for us. It's one that will go in the history for our club. We are now the second team to win in Mexico, so for us it's special.
Sounders captain for the match Brad Evans on the significance of the CCL win at Monterrey
It's whatever $3 million (Sounders) vs. $36,000 (Pumas) in payroll. It's going to be fun.
Peter Fewing on Kitsap v Sounders U.S. Open Cup third-round pairing, won by Seattle, 2-1
This is a rivalry that you don’t have to make into a rivalry. It already exists. It’s been there. It’s been there for the last 30-plus years. It’s nothing that you have to contrive. It’s nothing that you have to whip into a frenzy. It’s there.
Sounders coach Sigi Schmid on the first all-MLS meeting between Sounders and Timbers
It seems like every time we play these guys, we get a last-minute goal here at home. We'll take it. One minute, one moment like that changes everybody's mood.
Sigi Schmid on Sounders’ penchant for dramatically beating Sporting KC
Last year we were very close to achieving the win, but we couldn’t make it. This year that we did it is very important for us and it’s also very good for MLS and great for the team.
Sounders midfielder Alvaro Fernandez after scoring to defeat Monterrey away in Champions League, 1-0
The men’s soccer team needs to move in a new direction. We will do everything possible to make sure that the right person is brought in to develop an outstanding men’s soccer program.
Seattle U athletic director Bill Hogan after firing Brad Agoos as men's coach
There is no team, probably other than UCLA, in the country that is hotter than us (seven wins in eight) right now. We are winning games comfortably and it's a fun team to watch. We have been getting ranked and the attention in the polls so hopefully that is good enough.
Washington coach Jamie Clark on eve of NCAA selections in which Huskies were excluded
Maybe a good answer is Mullan gets to play when Steve is back on the field. (Mullan) is a hard player but that was a dirty tackle. He lined him up. There was absolutely no reason to crush him like that. It's my hope that he'll be heavily punished, but obviously it's out of our hands.
Sounders GM Adrian Hanauer on Brian Mullan's tackle which fractures Steve Zakuani's right leg
When they get that self-esteem, and they’re part of a team that believes in them, their esteem goes up, and they do better in school. Kids that were shy and reserved and had no self-confidence, are slowly, little by little, gaining respect for self and others – team values which also carry into the community.
Robbie Stewart, volunteer for Redmond's One League for Everyone (OLE) which raises funds and makes Lake Washington YSA more accessible to all
We came into it knowing they had a streak going and we definitely wanted to end it. We want to be a team that ends other people's streaks.
Lamar Neagle on scoring and the Sounders ending Real Salt Lake's 29-game MLS home unbeaten streak
It's been a hell of a three years - an honor to come home and play for something as cool as the Sounders. You couldn't have asked for a better end of my career. Of course, holding an MLS Cup in a couple of weeks would have been tremendous, but you can't fault anybody. We had one of those bad days a couple of days ago and came back here and restored a ton of pride. We just came up a little tiny bit short.
Sounders keeper Kasey Keller following his final match, a first-round playoff exit versus Real Salt Lake
If he was playing now, he’d be making a fortune, and rightfully so, but he wasn’t one of those guys that you’d sit down next to and he’d go on about all the things he’s done. It’s a shame that he couldn’t play now. With all the television coverage and people watching, the public would’ve been enamored by him.
Gary Heale eulogizing former teammate and coaching colleague Mark Peterson, NASL Sounders career scoring king
It's a big soccer community. With that history, the whole Pacific Northwest has really taken to soccer. We've seen it in Seattle and that's what this league needs more than anything: to generate rivalries. Fans are getting into it, players are getting into it, and I think it's going to be fantastic.
Whitecaps player John Thorrington on why the first year of Cascadia rivalries bodes well for MLS
Think how unique Hope Solo is. She's very telegenic, she's attractive, she's successful she's the kind of person that can translate into a personality. And also, if you think of it, women comprise 52 percent (of the population) they're participating in unprecedented numbers, and the No. 1 participant sport is soccer.
Dr. Stephen McDaniel, a consumer psychologist on Hope Solo's celebrity and ability to influence brand affinity
I think the biggest motivation of all - for me - at the end of that game, was all the players gathered on the field...and just looking up at the stands and everybody was still there. I think that's a reflection of what we play for every day and what gets us motivated every day. I think the fans were superb.
Sigi Schmid on rewarding fan support with a third U.S. Open Cup championship before a record crowd
This is what I like best about this league, all the families and children that come to watch. And it was a great game.
Domingo Zamudio, president of the Liga de Futbol following a Longview-Centralia men’s league game played at Borst Park.
It's insane. Once they started getting into it in the second half, I knew we were going to get a goal for sure. Once we get one, we get two. They were insane tonight, so it was awesome.
Brad Evans after crowd pushed Sounders on to Open Cup final victory over Chicago, 2-0
It’s a nice win and it’s a great advertisement for the sport. If you can’t come to a game like this and walk away saying, ‘Hey, this is pretty exciting. This is a lot of fun.’ You know, five goals in the second half. It’s what a derby game is all about.
Sounders coach Sigi Schmid on winning and scoring three goals at Portland
Games like tonight just grip you…it was pure ecstasy and knowing that we were able to fight back and come back again and that our character and our resiliency was still there just made me elated.
Sigi Schmid after Sounders finish regular season before huge crowd and comeback win over San Jose, 2-1
We lost to a great team, we really did. As much as I’ve always wanted this, if there’s any team I could give it to, it would be Japan. They do really deserve this.
Hope Solo praises Japan after the 2011 World Cup final. Japan was devastated March 11 by an earthquake and tsunami.
Seattle's a true soccer city, and I believe our city deserves a women's team. I can only hope to retire in my home state.
Hope Solo responding to questions about Seattle's prospects for a professional women's team
From the early days of U.S. Soccer West Coast Coaching Schools, where I first met and worked with Walt Chyzowych, I was inspired by his leadership, love of the game and confidence in American coaches. I have endeavored to be a positive role model like Walter. Just as he gave freely of himself to this great sport, I have strived to do the same. My hope is that the players and staff with whom I served will join me in sharing our knowledge, the stories, and the subtle nuances that help us all see the beauty of this game and what it can become in America.
Sounders coach Sigi Schmid, upon receiving the Walt Chyzowych Lifetime Achievement Award for 2011
I don't know how many of these kids were able to watch me play but I (came out) just to share the love and passion I have for the game. Also, you see some of these kids and they want to continue to play. As their success rate goes up you see the look on their faces. That's what is so fun about coaching is to see those small successes.
Former USWNT star Mia Hamm while visiting Auburn Youth SAA players at Game Farm Park on August 25
Yeah, there was definitely a little bit more to it. I think everybody was kind of flying around a little bit more.
Nate Jaqua, Oregon native and Sounders forward, on intensity of first Sounders-Timbers clash
We won the national championship, and we're starting to put players in higher leagues. We have that track record. People that come here have a chance to play on an excellent team with a chance to get in the finals or the Open Cup. It opens up a lot of opportunities for us.
Robin Waite, Kitsap Pumas owner
College & High School All-America (USC)
Player (Hometown) School (Div/Team/Pos)
Joe Pearman (Glendale, Az.) Seattle Pacific (D2/2nd/D)
Tyler Schultz (Scottsdale, Az.) Seattle Pacific (D2/1st/F)
Collegiate Men's Records
Evergreen 5-11-2
Gonzaga 4-12-3
Northwest 11-5-3
Pacific Lutheran 15-4-0
Puget Sound 11-6-0
Saint Martin's 5-11-2
Seattle University 2-13-2
Seattle Pacific 14-4-2
Washington 12-4-2
Western Washington 5-11-1
Whitman 9-8-2
Whitworth 14-3-1
Collegiate Women's Records
Central Washington 9-5-4
Eastern Washington 2-13-1
Evergreen 5-9-1
Gonzaga 7-10-2
Northwest 11-4-4
Pacific Lutheran 4-13-1
Puget Sound 14-3-3
Saint Martin's 4-12-2
Seattle University 12-6-1
Seattle Pacific 17-3-0
Washington 7-8-5
Washington State 12-7-4
Western Washington 10-5-3
Whitman 8-10-2
Whitworth 8-6-4
Founders Cup Winners
Age BoysGirls
U11 ExtremeCrossfire McLaughlin (LWYSA)
U12 FPSC Fury 98 Red (TPCJSA)Crossfire Aldridge (LWYSA)
U13 WS Jets (NCYSA)Crossfire Metzger (LWYSA)
U14 SU NE 96 White (SYSA)MIFC Islanders (EYSA)
U15 SCSS Boca Juniors (SWYSA)PSC Tornados (TPCJSA)
U16 PSC Hurricanes (TPCJSA)FWU Lightning/Spirit (FWSA)
U17 FC United 93 (TPCJSA)not awarded
U18 SCSS Boca Juniors 92 (SWYSA)not awarded
PDL, W-League Records
Kitsap Pumas 12-1-3, 1st Div.
North Sound Seawolves 4-8-4, 6th Div.
Seattle Sounders U23s 1-10-5, 8th Div.
Seattle Sounders Women 5-5-4, 5th Div.
Washington Crossfire 3-8-5, 7th Div.
Professional All-League
Player (Pos) Team (Lg-Tm)
Kasey Keller (G) Sounders (MLS-1st)
Bryan Meredith (G) Kitsap (PDL-NW)
Daniel Scott (D) Kitsap (PDL-NW)
State Youth Recreational Cup Winners
Age BoysGirls
U11 HSA West Seattle CrushFME Goal Seekers
U12 NCYSA Silver Lake 99 BlastersFWFC Miyahara Strikers
U13 TUSK Lightning (D3)Mad Kickers (D7)
U14 97 Lightning FC (D2)MYSA Montesano Starz
U15 96 Shockwave (D2)HSA West Seattle Crush 96
U16 Shelton Real Madrid (GHYSA)Harbor Fireballs (TPCJSA)
U17 Mukilteo LightningHarbor Hot Shots (TPCJSA)
U19 VUSA Storm 93 Pirates (D5)CBSC Elite
Washington State Youth Champions
Age BoysGirls
U12 Crossfire James (LWYSA)NW Nationals Red (SSCYSA)
U13 Crossfire James (LWYSA)Crossfire Reynolds (LWYSA)
U14 Crossfire Spidahl (LWYSA)Crossfire Baumgardt (LWYSA)
U15 Crossfire Premier Black (LWYSA)Washington Premier FC 95 (TPCJSA)
U16 Eastside FC 94 Red Strom (EYSA)Crossfire Premier 94 (LWYSA)
U17 Eastside FC Red Kovats (EYSA)Crossfire Premier Busey (LWYSA)
U18 Three Rivers SC 92 Celtic (TCYSA)Washington Premier FC 92 (TPCJSA)
WIAA Championship Games
Boys 4A Eastlake 2Skyline 0
Boys 3A Camas 3Bainbridge 0
Boys 2A Lynden 2Fife 0
Boys 1A Wahluke 2Columbia 0
Boys 1B-2B Waitsburg-Prescott 1Providence Classical Christian 0
Girls 4A Skyline 1Bellarmine 0
Girls 3A Seattle Prep 3Liberty 2
Girls 2A Interlake 1Cedarcrest 0
Girls 1A Seattle Academy 2Cashmere 1
Girls 1B-2B Seattle Academy 2Cashmere 1
Seattle Sounders vs. Sporting Kansas City

VIDEO: Seattle Sounders vs. Sporting Kansas City

Seattle Sounders vs. Portland Timbers

VIDEO: Seattle Sounders vs. Portland Timbers

Keller's 2011 Save of the Year

VIDEO: Keller's 2011 Save of the Year

2011 Open Cup Final - Sounders vs. Fire

VIDEO: 2011 Open Cup Final - Sounders vs. Fire

Keller Tribute

VIDEO: Keller Tribute

On this Day in History