Height of the Huskies

2021 – Around the World and Close to Home

An attempted insurrection results in hundreds invading the U.S. Capitol to protest the loss of Donald Trump to Joe Biden, with one protester killed, briefly interrupting the certification of the election. A COVID-19 vaccine becomes widely available, however a low vaccination rate slows the U.S. recovery. The U.S. military withdrawal from Afghanistan is marred by the deaths of 13 service members at the Kabul airport. The Tokyo Olympics, postponed by one year, are contested before empty seats due to pandemic concerns. In Washington, a heat wave in June sends temperatures over 100 degrees for three consecutive days, topped by a record 108 at SeaTac Airport. The Seattle Storm wins a fourth WNBA championship behind playoff MVP Breanna Stewart. Climate Pledge Arena opens, and the Seattle Kraken begin their inaugural NHL season.

Height of the Huskies

They would move on to win an even bigger game, but the moment likely seared into the collective memory of Washington Huskies players, coaches and fans must be the penultimate victory. Seconds after an Elite Eight defeat of storied St. Louis, while not exactly a pitch invasion, some friends and family spilled from the record Montlake crowd onto the squishy sod. Never before in Washington’s 60 seasons of play had the Huskies advanced to an NCAA College Cup, and not for lack of trying.

In the following days and weeks, UW coach Jamie Clark would sift through images of that aftermath, plus photos of multiple pregame tailgate gatherings. Clark is a big believer in shared experiences, and this was an advancement shared by everyone from alumni players to bandwagon types.

“Seeing those pictures of those gatherings, different groups from different eras, was one of my favorite memories of that quarterfinal,” said Clark. “Winning that game, the relief and enjoyment with everyone on the field afterward, that was the highlight. It was just so cool.”

Washington had been eliminated in the previous two Elite Eights and three times during Clark’s first 10 seasons. The Huskies would avenge one of those losses by beating Georgetown in the semifinal to reach the title match. That all happened 2800 miles away in Cary, North Carolina, albeit on national TV. Winning big on Montlake was so much more.

At home, Clark could lock eye with his past players, those who had nearly made it to the final four. He knew amongst the throng of 3,629 were Huskies who dated back to the Husky Stadium days of the Seventies and Eighties. A couple past UW coaches were there too.

U-Dub was usually in the hunt for conference and tournament glory 56 of those seasons were winning ones. “There’s many coaches before me who had done an incredible job,” noted Clark, “but somehow, as can happen, an NCAA tournament run always eluded them.”

That tradition combined with the gap in ultimate achievement is part of what appealed to Clark in taking the post. When playing for Stanford, he encountered Dean Wurzberger’s team that won the conference but fell in the first round.

Several other factors have coalesced during the decade. UW has kept many top players in-state, recruited some jewels from beyond the borders, and it has benefitted from the growing strength of the Sounders Academy. The latter sourced the first eight postseason goals, including a pair of Dylan Teves hat tricks. Getting over the tournament hump and into the last eight often requires the extraordinary.

“Some magical moments happened along the way,” affirmed Clark. “It took a special player, Dylan Teves scoring six goals in two games, to allow us to advance. Back-to-back hat tricks just don’t happen in the NCAA tournament.”

“When you’re in three straight Elite Eights, odds are that in one of them things are going to fall your way,” he added. “This was the year that the magic happened at the right moment to win those big games.”

The pandemic played a part, too. When the 2020 season was pushed to spring of 2021, it allowed Clark to rebuild the roster and take momentum into autumn. Ethan Bartlow and Freddy Kleeman were lost in the first 11 picks of the MLS SuperDraft, yet the Huskies were expertly stitched back together for another run to the quarterfinals. The 3-0 loss to Pitt created a hunger that carried over. Between the shared experience successfully battling through adversity, reaching multiple Elite Eights and that hunger, the Huskies were set to go, and they won 11 in a row out of the gate.

Clark believes his team might have won championships in two of the last three seasons. The expectations are now greater. It’s never easy getting to a College Cup, but now that it’s been done by UW, there’s the sense that now there’s a road map. They know what it takes they know how they can navigate the journey. On Montlake there’s not only a team that now knows how to get back there, they believe they will.

Year in Review
SEATTLE SOUNDERS
Season Record
17-9-8, 2nd West (3rd MLS, 1st rnd)
Coach
Brian Schmetzer (6th year)
Best XI
Raul Ruidiaz, Joao Paulo, Yeimar Andrade Gomez
Top Scorer
Raul Ruidiaz (17 goals)
REIGN FC
Season Record
13-8-3, 2nd NWSL (1st rnd)
Coach
Farid Benstiti (2nd year), Sam Laity (interim), Laura Harvey (1st year)
All-League
Alana Cook, Jessica Fishlock (MVP), Eugenie Le Sommer
Top Scorer
Bethany Balcer (9 goals)
TACOMA DEFIANCE
10-13-9, 6th Pacific (22nd USL)
COLLEGIATE
Men's Collegiate Postseason
Washington D1, runner-up Seattle U D1, 1st rnd Seattle Pacific D2, 1st rnd Pacific Lutheran D3, 2nd rnd
Women's Collegiate Postseason
Washington State D1 , 1st rnd Seattle Pacific D2, Qtrfnl rnd Western Washington D2, 3rd rnd Pacific Lutheran D3, 1st rnd
Men's Conference Champions
Seattle U (WAC tournament), Seattle Pacific (GNAC), Pacific Lutheran (NWC)
Women's Conference Champions
Seattle Pacific (GNAC reg+tourn), Pacific Lutheran (NWC)
NWAC Men's Champion
Highline d Whatcom, 4-3
NWAC Women's Champion
Peninsula d Clark, 1-0
Boys National Champion
Crossfire Premier (U14), ECNL
Largest Attendance
45,737, Seattle Sounders vs. Portland Timbers, Lumen Field

2021: Height of the Huskies

In its 60th season, Washington breaks through barriers to reach its first College Cup, a feat celebrated by Huskies who date back to the beginning.

Reign Lands Le Sommer on Loan
May 12, 2021

OL Reign secures the service of French star striker Eugénie Le Sommer on loan from sister club Olympique Lyonnais. The all-time leading scorer for Lyon and the French national team, Le Sommer, 31, will arrive in Tacoma in mid-June. In 11 seasons with OL, Le Sommer won the French championship 10 times and the UEFA Women’s Champions League seven times.

Gonzaga Sets New Wins Standard
November 6, 2021

Gonzaga finishes its season with a fourth straight win to set a new program standard for victories. The Bulldogs blank Loyola Marymount, 1-0, in Los Angeles for a 15th win (15-5-0). The lone score comes in the 58th minute when a Willow Collins free kick finds Hannah Hale. Lyza Bosselmann's four saves makes it stand-up for a record 12th shutout.

Purtemann Exits at Evergreen
November 9, 2021

It's the end of an era for The Evergreen State College men's soccer program as coach John Purtemann ends a 15-year run. Purtemann was 112-115-33 with the men since 200 and also guided the women's team from 2007-09.

First Mr. Sounder, Jimmy Gabriel Passes
July 10, 2021

Jimmy Gabriel, instrumental and influential to the advancement of Puget Sound area soccer for more than 35 years and the original Mr. Sounder, has died in Phoenix. He was 80. Gabriel served as original captain and second head coach of the NASL Seattle Sounders as well as the first coaching director for Washington Youth Soccer. He was coaching director and later head coach for FC Seattle, which provided a competitive environment for development of the area’s top players following the NASL’s demise. Later, Gabriel served as an assistant coach for the University of Washington men’s and women’s programs, and he was Brian Schmetzer’s top assistant with the A-League Sounders.

Colleges Resume Play After 14 Months
February 3, 2021

The state's postponed 2020 collegiate season begins with a men's match between Seattle University and Gonzaga at Championship Field. Due to the pandemic, not since December 2019 has a competitive game been played. NCAA Division I and NAIA conduct national championships while Division II and III do not. Junior colleges return and all but two of the state's four-year programs opt to play. The Great Northwest Athletic Conference chooses not to sponsor play nor champions in D2, leaving members to make patchwork schedules. Seasons are truncated, and health and safety protocols prompt several cancellations and postponements.

Teves Magic Lifts Huskies Over Hoosiers
November 27, 2021

For the second straight NCAA tournament match, Dylan Teves scores three goals to lead Washington to the next round. After falling behind twice to No. 15 Indiana, Teves gets all three goals for the Huskies, including the overtime game-winner. The visiting Hoosiers dictate play early, earning a penalty kick by Victor Bezerra in the 29th minute. Three minutes into the second half Teves, who had a second-round hat trick vs. Portland, converted a UW penalty. Four minutes later, IU's Spencer Glass restores the lead. In the 75th minute, Charlie Ostrem spots Teves on the back post for an open header. Barley six minutes into overtime Lucas Meek leads Teves into space and he buries it in the left corner, sending Washington through to the Elite 8.

OL Reign Announce Return to Seattle
December 15, 2021

OL Reign are moving back to Seattle in 2022, this time to Lumen Field, home of the NFL Seahawks and MLS Sounders. Reign Founder and CEO Bill Predmore says the NWSL team has signed a multiyear agreement to play home matches downtown. The Reign have played at Tacoma's Cheney Stadium since 2019, with the expectation it would be an interim step toward an adjacent new soccer-specific stadium. That project was suspended as a result of the pandemic, then NWSL required a minimum 10,000 capacity and cost estimates leapt from $60M to $158M. Within three weeks, 2,500 season-ticket packages are sold, nearly doubling the 2021 total.

Webber Takes Helm of Defiance
February 26, 2021

Just like the parent club, Tacoma Defiance now has a former Sounder as head coach. Wade Webber is named the USL Championship club's fourth coach. Webber replaces Chris Little, who resigned to take an assistant post with Colorado Rapids. Webber played for the A-League Sounders from 1994-96 before moving to MLS. He was an assistant with Defiance/S2 since 2018, working under both John Hutchinson and Little. Webber also coached for two seasons with the Sounders FC Academy, and he boasts more than two decades of experience working in youth soccer in western Washington.

Emergency Keeper Preserves Road Win
May 12, 2021

Alex Roldan steps between the posts and comes up with three clutch saves to preserve the Sounders' 1-0 win at San Jose. When Stefan Frei is injured making a save in the 90th minute and Seattle having exhausted its substitutions, Cristian Roldan recommends his brother as an emergency replacement to coach Brian Schmetzer. Normally the right back, Roldan becomes the Sounders' first field player to play in MLS play and only the 12th in the league's 26-year existence. Cristian Roldan's goal extends Seattle's unbeaten string to five.

UW-Cal Game Halted at 60 Minutes
October 28, 2021

Seattle’s record autumn rainfall has consequences. The Washington-California men’s game, tied at 1-1, is called after 60 minutes when field conditions prompted officials to rule that it was no longer safe due to the waterlogged Husky Soccer Stadium pitch. Since it did not reach 70 minutes, it is ruled a no-contest and is not rescheduled. Over two inches of precipitation is measured during the day.

Yedlin Joins Turkey's Galatasary
February 1, 2021

DeAndre Yedlin is on the move to Turkey following his free transfer from Newcastle to Galatasary. Yedlin played four-plus years at St. James' Park, making 125 appearances. He scored 3 goals and added 11 assists. Yedlin joins one of the most famous clubs in Turkey for 3.5 years. Galatasaray are currently in a battle with arch-rivals Fenerbahçe for the lead in the Turkish Süper Lig.

Sekany Saves, Shoots UW into Third Round
April 30, 2021

Olivia Sekany both saves and shoots Washington into the Sweet Sixteen. The Huskies knock off No. 15 Saint Louis, 0-0 (4-3), to reach the NCAA third round for the first time since 2014. After a scoreless 120 minutes, Sekany makes a huge punch save in the fourth round the tied shootout, then slots home the decisive penalty. UW out-shoots the Billikens, 15-9.

Ruidiaz Scores Late, Seattle Reaches Cup Final
September 14, 2021

Raul Ruidiaz scores the decisive goal in the third minute of added time to send Seattle through to the Leagues Cup final with a 1-0 home win over Santos Laguna. Ruidíaz gets past two defenders on a ball from Léo Chú and slots in his second attempt after his first is saved by Santos keeper Gibran Lajud. Stefan Frei records his second consecutive shutout after returning from injury.

Nine Years Later, Montero Returns to Seattle
March 4, 2021

The scoring sensation of the Sounders' first four seasons, Fredy Montero has signed a one-year deal to return home to Seattle after nine years away. Montero scored the first goal for the Sounders in 2009, when he was MLS Newcomer of the Year. Now 33, he returns an experienced veteran after stops in Colombia, Portugal, China and Vancouver.

Reign Fans, Rapinoe Return to Tacoma
April 27, 2021

After 19 months OL Reign is reunited with both its fans for an NWSL Challenge Cup match versus Chicago. Megan Rapinoe also makes her first start (second appearance) for the club since October 2019. There are just over a thousand socially-distanced fans at Cheney Stadium. Two home dates had been played behind closed doors. Second-half goals from Leah Pruitt and Tziarra King give the Reign a 3-2 win.

UW Women Roll Past OSU
April 11, 2021

A pair of first-half goals pave the path for Washington's Senior Day win over Oregon State. The No. 22 Huskies, who finish 7-1-1 at home, rise to third in the Pac-12 with a relentless attack of 27 shots. It all but assures UW of a second straight trip to the NCAA tournament. Sianna Siemonsma floats a cross to the middle of the box and Summer Yates pushes it home at 27'. Following an OSU handball on a UW shot, Olivia Van der Jagt convert converts from the spot five minutes before halftime.

Huskies Breakt Through to NCAA Semifinals
December 4, 2021

For the first time in Washington's 60 seasons of varsity play, the Huskies have broken through to the NCAA College Cup semifinals. In front of a record Husky Soccer Stadium crowd of 3,629, UW eliminates the lone remaining undefeated team in the country, St. Louis, 2-0. Midway through the first half, Nick Scardina jumps to deflect the Billikens keeper's attempted clearance, and the ball falls to the feet of Gio Miglietti, who fires it home. Less than five minutes later, it's Miglietti again. Christian Soto slices through the defense and finds Miglietti near post for the 2-nil advantage.

Seattle Scores Six, Smashes Portland Away
August 15, 2021

Seattle Sounders run rampant in Portland, torching the Timbers for six goals at Providence Park. A first-half brace from Fredy Montero is followed by Raul Ruidiaz doing likewise in 6-2 romp. It ties the most goals scored in an away match, and it starts early with Montero in the 13th and 29th minutes. He has six career goals vs. Portland. Three minutes after the Timbers tie it, Ruidiaz scores twice in 17 minutes before Jimmy Medranda smashes home a volley. Nicolas Benezet gets the sixth in added time. It's part of a four-game win streak across all competitions.

Falcon Women Still Undefeated in 2021
September 25, 2021

Seattle Pacific wins emphatically to remain unbeaten during the calendar after a 6-0 shelling of Northwest Nazarene at Interbay Stadium. Makena Rietz scores just 52 seconds in, and A.J. DePinto collects two goals as the Falcons go to a combined 13-0-1 in 2021 they were 8-0-1 in the spring. SPU has now scored 17 unanswered goals since its opening fall match.

UW Perfect Start Extended by OT Win at SU
September 21, 2021

Washington's perfect start goes on but not without a scare at Seattle University. The Huskies win a 2-1 decision in overtime to reach 6-0-0. It's scoreless until just over five minutes into the second half, when a long throw-in by Charlie Ostrem is flicked on by Ryan Sailor to the waiting head of Kendall Burks who scores. The Redhawks are unrelenting in searching for the tying goal. Finally, after creating numerous chances, the Championship Field capacity crowd of 1,377 is rewarded in the 73rd minute when Declan McGlynn finds the back of the net. In overtime, Nick Scardina delivers the golden goal in the 98th minute for UW's fifth WAC/101 Club Cup in six meetings.

PLU Ousts No. 2 Trinity for NCAAs
November 13, 2021

Hosting an NCAA tournament game for the first time, Pacific Lutheran knocks off No. 2-ranked Trinity (Tx.) in penalty kicks at East Field. After 110 minutes, the Lutes oust the Tigers, 1-1 (4-2), in a first-round game. Following a scoreless first half, the Tigers strike first in the 51st minute, but PLU's Trevor Thompson answers in the 76th. Both team's make their first two penalties, but Lutes keeper Nicholas Gaston stops back-to-back shots, and Dane Helle scores the fourth for Pacific Lutheran. trinity had entered the game 16-0-2.

Lavelle Lands with OL Reign
May 17, 2021

Nine months after trading for her NWSL rights, OL Reign announces that U.S. international midfielder Rose Lavelle is coming to Tacoma. Lavelle becomes a USWNT allocated player and is expected to be available for selection within a couple weeks. Her rights were acquired August 16, 2020, from Washington. She has been with Manchester City during the 2020/21 European season.

Washington Gets Past Georgetown in Semis
December 10, 2021

Two years after being eliminated by Georgetown, Washington returns the favor at the NCAA semifinal stage. Making their College Cup debut, the Huskies dispatch the Hoyas, 2-1, at Cary, N.C. After 45 minutes without either side mustering a shot on goal, Lucas Meek breaks the ice. In the 54th minute Meek whips a ball with pace and spin through the box and into the back of the net. Only three minutes later, Charlie Ostrem increases the UW lead with a firm, bending shot from outside the box to the far post. Georgetown, which beat Washington in a 2019 quarterfinal, pulls a goal back in the 80th minute.

After 11 Months, Youth Return to Pay
February 6, 2021

After 11 months on the sidelines, kids get the go-ahead to compete again. Washington Youth Soccer, in accordance with the state's third phase of COVID-19 re-opening, permits league play to resume in many counties, albeit with stipulations. All players, coaches and spectators (up to 200 allowed) must wear masks, socially distance themselves off the field, and no postgame handshakes or fist bumps are allowed. It soon becomes apparent participation numbers are significantly lower and referee ranks need rebuilding.

Sounders Loan Morris to Swansea
January 22, 2021

Sounders Homegrown star forward Jordan Morris officially joins Swansea City of the English Championship on a six-month loan with an option to buy at the end. Morris is expected to be eligible for the Jan. 27 match against Brentford. Swansea's reported purchase price would be over $7 million. Morris, 26, is coming off an MLS Best XI season in which he scored 10 goals for the second year in a row and added a career-high eight assists.

Stars Play Everywhere But at Home
January 21, 2021

A nomadic return to play for the Tacoma Stars begins in Independence, Mo., with a season-opening MASL victory, 6-5 over the Kansas City Comets. Cory Keitz scores shorthanded to tie the game in the fourth quarter. Keitz then gets the winner with 2:58 left in overtime. The Stars must play each game on the road or at neutral sites since state and local COVID-19 regulations not allowing in-person events.

Tacoma Defiance Destined for New League
June 21, 2021

Major League Soccer announces the formation of a new league in 2022 for its affiliated reserve teams. MLS NEXT Pro will be sanction for Division III by U.S. Soccer, and all MLS reserve teams – including Tacoma Defiance –currently in USL Championship or League One will move there by 2023. The Defiance (formerly Sounders 2) has been in the Div. II USL Championship since starting in 2015.

Yedlin Sparks U.S. in World Cup Qualifying
September 8, 2021

DeAndre Yedlin sparks what proves to be the game-winning goal in the U.S. win at Honduras in World Cup qualifying. Two minutes after coming in, Yedlin lifts a ball from the right to Ricardo Pepi, whose 10-yard header put the Americans ahead, 2-1, in the 75th minute and on their way to a 4-1 victory. Yedlin plays in seven of the eight qualifiers through December. During a 2-1 home win over Mexico on Nov. 12 he reaches 70 caps.

Defiance Reaches 10th Win, Most Since 2015
October 24, 2021

While they fall short of their objective of reaching the playoffs, Tacoma Defiance reach their 10th win by defeating L.A. Galaxy II at Cheney Stadium. Sam Adineran's second-half brace is the difference in a 3-2 outcome. Tacoma goes unbeaten (1-0-3) over the final four games to finish 10-13-9, the most wins since 2015. Adeniran totals 13 goals.

Dawgs Hungry Early in NCAA Opener
April 27, 2021

Washington wastes no time in getting in front in its NCAA opener and goes on to blank Liberty, 3-0, in Matthews, N.C. It's UW's biggest postseason margin of victory since 2010 and a 4-nil scoreline vs. Oklahoma. Just 67 seconds into the match, Ameera Hussen put the Huskies up. Karlee Stueckle and Olivia Van der Jagt tally on either side of halftime.

Perera Scoring Not Enough for U.S.
August 19, 2021

Nick Perera of the Tacoma Stars scores two goals plus an assist, but the United States falls to host Russia, 5-4 in extra time, in the opening group stage match at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in Moscow. The U.S. proceeds to lose all three of its games, while Russia goes on to win the tournament. Perera finishes with four goals.

Huskies Nip Cougs in 90th Minute
March 19, 2021

A sensational spring keeps getting better for Washington. A goal with only 18 seconds remaining lifts the 23rd-ranked Huskies over Washington State, 2-1, in an Apple Cup Series home match. The non-conference win makes UW 6-1-2, and it's the second straight win over WSU. Ruby Hellstrom's early strike is canceled out by Makamae Gomera-Stevens in the 73rd minute. Karlee Stueckle's shot from the top of the box finds its way through the keeper's fingers for the winner. Under new coach Nicole Van Dyke, Washington has scored four goals in the 80th minute or later and outscored opponents 9-2 in the second half of games.

Eastern's Bodnar Not Renewed
May 11, 2021

Chad Bodnar, who took Eastern Washington to its first two NCAA tournament appearances, is out after seven seasons in Cheney. Bodnar's contract is not renewed despite going 73-44-15. Elsewhere, Paul Meehan is dismissed after three seasons with the Gonzaga men's program where he was 8-33-4.

Adeniran Hat Trick Ties Tacoma Record
October 9, 2021

Sam Adeniran scores three second-half goals as Tacoma ends a record seven-game losing streak by defeating Orange County, 4-1, at Cheney Stadium. Following a scoreless first half, Adeniran breaks the game open early in the second period, beginning with a curling left-footed shot in the 46th minute. A soft chip from close range makes it 2-nil in the 52nd. Orange County pulls a goal back and is pushing for the equalizer when Alec Díaz puts home a rebound in the 90th minute. Adeniran completes only the second hat trick in S2/Defiance history in added time for his 10th goal of the season. Tacoma goes 3-0-1 vs. Orange County, the eventual USL Championship champion.

Kamiakin's Erikson Gets 500th Win
October 11, 2021

Chris Erikson celebrates her 500th victory as Kamiakin girls' coach following the Braves' 4-0 win at Hermiston. Erikson has coached at the Kennewick school for 33 years, twice guided the team to the state 4A final. More than 60 players have gone on to play in college.

Webber's Defiance Starts Strong
May 16, 2021

Under new coach Wade Webber, Tacoma Defiance is off to a strong start a 2-0-1. Alfonso Ocampo-Chavez scores the lone goal in the 21st minute of a 1-0 win over Orange County at Cheney Stadium. Christian Herrera makes two saves for his first shutout. It's the club's best start since Sounders 2 started 3-0-0 in 2015.

Sounders Shift Into Gear, Win Fourth Straight
May 16, 2021

Once more exhibiting an ability to shift into a higher gear come the second half, the Sounders remain undefeated and win their fourth in a row, 2-0, over LAFC. It matches 2019 for the best start in the MLS era (5-0-1). Xavier Arreaga flicks a near-post header from Joao Paulo's corner kick in the 57th minute. Then in the 73rd, Seattle’s wingbacks combine when Alex Roldan dinks a lofted ball for Brad Smith’s late-arriving run. Stefan Cleveland makes his first start with for the injured Stefan Frei and makes three saves. Seattle has outscored opponents 10-1 in the second half.

Tacoma Climbs into Second in Division
August 18, 2021

Rookie central defender Jackson Ragen scores the opener and helps anchor Tacoma's defense to a shutout win over Orange County in Irvine, Ca. Sam Adeniran and Marlo Vargas also tally for the Defiance, winners of three straight and now 7-4-6 and up to second place in the USL Pacific Division. Adeniran has three goals in the three wins, and Tacoma is undefeated over eight games (4-0-4), by far the best in the franchise's history.

Huskies' Attack Goes Silent in NCAA Final
December 12, 2021

Battling from behind almost from the outset, Washington cannot fire-up its attack in falling to Clemson, 2-0, in the NCAA championship game at Cary, N.C. The Huskies finish with advantages in shots (9-4) and corners (5-3) yet the potent production (12 goals) of the past five games is missing. The Tigers put UW in a hole before a full minute is gone. A mistake in the back leads to an open net for Clemson's Isaiah Reid at 27 seconds. Just 14 minutes later, Reid scores a second goal on a looping header. Washington's best chance did not come until the 88th minute, when Dylan Teves was on target but saved.

Waibel Becomes First in Husky Hall of Fame
October 17, 2021

The Washington Husky Hall of Fame inducts its first male soccer player, former standout defender Craig Waibel. From 1994-98 Waibel, a Spokane native, anchored the backline and helped lead Washington to three NCAA Tournament appearances. Uw won its first Mountain Pacific Sports Federation title his senior year.

Youth Can Play, Train Without Masks
July 2, 2021

Washington Youth Soccer, in accordance with the State of Washington's COVID-19 reopening plan, affirms that masks are no longer necessary to wear for training and games around the state.

Pro Teams Can Go Full Capacity
June 24, 2021

Governor Jay Inslee announces the State of Washington will fully reopen after June 30, clearing the way for OL Reign, Tacoma Defiance and Seattle Sounders to open seating to full capacity at home games. While there will no longer be a requirement to show vaccination verification before entry, that changes when the Delta variant surges. In September masks are required, both indoors and out, and proof of vaccination or a negative FDA-approved test are necessary for entry to games and events.

Huskies' Run Finally Ends
May 5, 2021

Washington's late-season scoreless string finally ends and unfortunately the Huskies cannot muster a reply. Second-ranked North Carolina ousts UW from the NCAA tournament, 1-0, at the Sweet Sixteen phase in Cary, N.C. Washington, in its first season under Nicole Van Dyke, does not allow a shot in the first half and has a 13-7 shot advantage overall. Yet the 653-minute defensive shutout streak ends midway through the second half on Tori Hansen's header off a Tar Heels corner. It's the second-longest shutout streak in Husky history.

Wingo's Ferencvaros Wins Hungarian League
April 20, 2021

Seattle's Henry Wingo celebrates another league championship, this time with Hungary's Ferencvaros. A 3-0 home win over Ujpest gives Ferencvaros a third straight crown. Wingo, a wing-back, has become a regular (12 appearances) since joining the Budapest side on a $1 million transfer Jan. 18. He had also won a domestic title for Norway's Molde after leaving the Sounders midway through 2019.

SPU Men Start 10-1-0
October 14, 2021

Second-half goals by Judah Johnston and Alex Mejia power 7th-ranked Seattle Pacific past Western Washington, 2-0, at Harrington Field. It's the Falcons' seventh straight victory as they go to 10-1-0. Under interim coach Kevin Sakuda, SPU is in the midst of the school's best start since 2014. Mejia, coming off a hat trick five days earlier, raises his season to 12 goals.

High School Teams Reconvene
February 22, 2021

It's far from normal, but some degree of normalcy is beginning anew for high school athletes during the pandemic. With approval of the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association, traditional fall prep sports, including girls' soccer, begin practicing again. The abbreviated season will run through April 17 in Seattle's Metro League, to be followed by winter and spring sports such as boys' soccer from April 19-June 12. Schedules vary depending upon the league, and most are dispensing with postseason tournaments, and the WIAA will not hold state championships until fall.

Adult Leagues Kick-In Again
April 14, 2021

More than a year after closing for the pandemic, the Greater Seattle Soccer League resumes play with the start of the spring season. All is not normal, however. Players and officials must wear masks at all times, and six feet of distance must be maintained on the bench and team huddles.

Camas Completes Unbeaten Season in 4A
November 20, 2021

Camas completes an unbeaten campaign, but it doesn't come easily. The Papermakers get a couple saves in the shootout to turn back Issaquah, 0-0 (4-2), for the girls' 4A title at Sparks Stadium. Although Camas pushes relentlessly in the second half and overtime (17-3 in shots), it comes down to penalties. Keely Wieczorek saves a pair of Eagles attempts, and Nora Melcher nets the clinching penalty in the fifth round. It's the Papermakers' second crown in five years and sixth runner-up finish for Issaquah.

Spokane Stadium Going Downtown
May 5, 2021

Spokane Public Schools board approves a downtown location for a new sports stadium. The $31 million, 5,000-seat facility was originally planned to go on the Joe Albi Stadium site, but the site just north of downtown and east of the Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena became the preference for its accessibility. Those promoting the return of pro soccer also favored the downtown location. Construction groundbreaking takes place November 30.

Rapinoe Brace Helps U.S. Grab Olympic Bronze
August 5, 2021

Megan Rapinoe scores a brace as th United States wins the Olympic bronze medal by defeating Australia, 4-3, in Kashima, Japan. Rapinoe begins with a dazzling Olimpico, driving her corner kick cross directly into the net in the eighth minute. In the 21st minute, a failed Australia clearance falls into her path for a firm volley into the net and a 2-1 lead the U.S. would not relinquish. Carli Lloyd's brace makes it 4-1 early in the second half. Rapinoe’s brace makes her the first USWNT player with multiple multi-goal games at the Olympics. She also scored twice (including another Olimpico) in the 2012 Olympic semifinals against Canada.

Morris Suffers Torn ACL on Loan
February 20, 2021

Just three weeks into his loan spell at Swansea City, Jordan Morris is stretchered off against Huddersfield. It is later learned that Morris suffered a torn left ACL. He debuted Jan. 30 and was only making his fourth appearance. Morris immediately returns to the U.S. to undergo surgery. He tore his right ACL in February 2018 and missed the remainder of that season.

Jennings Takes Over Stars
December 7, 2021

Tacoma Stars name Mike Jennings as the new head coach of the team ahead of the 2021-22 MASL season. Jennings has been with the Stars since 2016 season, both as an assistant and member of the medical staff. He replaces Nick Perera, who was player-coach since December 2018. Jennings previously was head coach of the PDL Tacoma Tide and Puget Sound women.

Falcons Deny Vikings for Fourth Time
December 2, 2021

It's not easy beating your rival three times, let alone four, in the same season, but No. 4 Seattle Pacific does just that in the NCAA West Region championship game in Dallas. Sophie Beadle earns a first-half penalty kick and scores shortly after intermission to inspire a 2-1 win over 13th-ranked Western Washington. Beadle is fouled in the box by WWU goalkeeper Natalie Dierickx in the 12th minute. Claire Neder converts the ensuing penalty kick. Beadle makes it 2-nil with a shot off the left post in the 52nd minute. It's the fourth regional title SPU but first since 2008.

Reign Rewards Record Crowd with Rivalry Win
August 29, 2021

It all seems to come together for OL Reign. Enjoying an extended run of success, playing their arch-rival and finally appearing on a big stage, they show they are ready for the moment. The Reign beats Portland, 2-1, before a record NWSL crowd of 27,248 at Lumen Field. It's the first game of doubleheader, with the Sounders hosting the Timbers in the evening. Megan Rapinoe scores both goals in the first half for the sixth win in eight outings. Rapinoe opens the scoring in the 16th minute after collecting a pass from Jess Fishlock, then connects on a penalty in the 39th minute. Sarah Bouhaddi’s amazing late save against Portland’s Morgan Weaver preserves the victory. The attendance is a state record for women's play and more than three times as large as the club's previous record, set two years earlier in Tacoma.

Rodman Bypasses WSU for NWSL
January 13, 2021

Trinity Rodman, Washington State's most coveted signee in program history, will not play a single game in Pullman. Rodman is selected No. 2 overall by the Washington Spirit in the NWSL Draft and will forego her collegiate career, instead reporting immediately to the Spirit training camp. She signed in December 2019 as the top-ranked forward in the 2020 class and the highest rated recruit in WSU program history. Rodman scored eight goals and added six assists, helping the U.S. to the 2020 CONCACAF U20 championship.

Sounders Cleared to Bring Back Fans
April 5, 2021

With the approval of state and county officials, Seattle Sounders announce that fans will be allowed to return to home matches for the first time in more than a year. Beginning with the April 16 home opener vs. Minnesota, Lumen Field capacity will be limited to 25 percent, or 7,000. The date, OL Reign fans will return to Cheney Stadium in accordance with state and Pierce County guidelines. The Reign played two home games in 2020, both behind closed doors. The Sounders have not played with spectators since March 7, 2020.

Woe Is Tacoma After Losing Seven Straight
October 6, 2021

A promising campaign is collapsing for Tacoma Defiance. The team is in free fall after losing its record seventh straight, 1-0, at Austin. Once second in the division, Tacoma has sunk to seventh, one game out of a playoff position, with six matches remaining. The Defiance has scored just four times during the skid.

WA Legends Offers Elite Panel Advice
April 12, 2021

Washington State Legends of Soccer presents a free webinar featuring five local professionals discussing what it takes to reach the next level. The panel features Sam Hiatt (OL Reign), Katherine Reynolds (11-year veteran), Cristian Roldan (Sounders), Kelyn Rowe (Sounders) and Morgan Weaver (Portland Thorns). Sportscaster Tom Glasgow serves as moderator.

Huskies Fare Well vs. Top Fives
March 24, 2021

Washington scores its second straight win over fellow top-five opponents, with the 4th-ranked Huskies taking down No. 3 Oregon State, 2-1, in Corvallis. Gio Miglietti and Ryan Sailor tally in the first 21 minutes to give the Huskies a 2-nil lead. Charlie Ostrem assists on both goals. Four days earlier UW beat No. 2 Stanford, 1-0, at home with Ostrem finding Dylan Teves for the 85' winner.

Dawgs Draw at OSU in Pac-12 Decider
November 11, 2021

A national top-four matchup decides the outcome of the Pac-12 race in Corvallis, and No. 3 Washington is unable to overtake No. 1 Oregon State. The Beavers break through first, 15 seconds into the second half. The Huskies press forward and get the equalizer on the hour. Ryan Sailor comes up to nod in Charlie Ostrem's corner kick. In the 86th minute UW seems to have the conference crown in hand. Following a pair of solid saves by Sam Fowler, Gio Miglietti knocks in a goal after Ostrem recycles his cleared corner to Kendall Burks. OSU responds in the 89th minute to tie it, 2-2, and two scoreless extra periods the Beavers win the Pac-12.

Falcons' Collings Joins Huskies
July 28, 2021

Seattle Pacific head coach Mark Collings resigns to take an assistant role across town at Washington. Collings had held the reins of his alma mater for 14 seasons, going 129-68-32. Former USL Sounder Kevin Sakuda, an assistant for the SPU women, is named interim coach.

Reign Swoops for Cook, Another Big Signing
June 7, 2021

For the third time in four weeks OL Reign announces a key acquisition, this time central defender Alana Cook on a transfer from Paris Saint-Germain. Cook had previously played with OL Reign during the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup on a short-term loan from the French club. A native of Massachusetts and Stanford graduate, she signed with PSG in early 2019, and in 2021 they finally overtook 14-time defending champion Olympique Lyonnais. Cook captained the U.S. U23 national team and earned her first senior cap in 2019.

WSU Attack Buzzes vs. Montana
November 13, 2021

In complete control from the opening whistle, 15th-ranked Washington State moves forward in the NCAA tournament with a resounding 3-0 win over Montana at Lower Soccer Field. For the third game in a row the WSU attack is buzzing. Marin Whieldon, Sydney Pulver and Grayson Lynch run the Cougars' total to 10 goals in those three victories.

Reign Wins third in a Row Before Harvey Handoff
August 7, 2021

A resurgent OL Reign humbles Houston, 5-1, in Tacoma for the third win in a row and fourth in six games under interim coach Sam Laity. Bethany Balcer scores her fourth and fifth goals during that stretch, and the Reign has risen from ninth to fifth in the table. Incoming head coach Laura Harvey is in attendance and will now take the handoff from Laity and begin her second stint as head coach of the Reign.

Lakeside Gets Decision in All-Metro Final
November 20, 2021

An all-Metro League final goes to Lakeside in a 2-1 decision over Seattle Prep for the 3A girls' championship in Puyallup. Cate Lewison puts away a rebound in the 35th minute, giving the Lions the lead. Halle Fenkner doubles it on the 46th, punching home a short-range shot. Prep replies five minutes later through Emory Bozzuti. Lakeside finishes first for the sixth time but first since 2003.

Miraculous Seattle U Comeback Wins WAC
November 14, 2021

Behind 2-nil with under four minutes remaining, Seattle University stuns host Grand Canyon with a miraculous comeback and wins the WAC tournament in penalties in Phoenix, 2-2 (4-3). Sam Tessler sparks the rally with a header off a cross from James Morris in the 87th minute. Noe Meza then equalizes in the 89th minute on a free kick from 10 yards outside the box. In penalty kicks, GCU scores on its first attempt but Morris ties it at 1-1. In the tiebreaker, Akili Kasim saves the Antelopes' second and fifth penalties while the Redhawks go 4-for-4.

Soccer Under the Heat Dome
June 26, 2021

Both the Sounders and OL Reign play at home in record-breaking heat as the entire Pacific Northwest endures an oppressive heat dome. Temperatures reach 102 degrees at SeaTac International, and it's the start of an unprecedented three straights days of records, topping out at 108 on June 28. The Reign-Gotham game at Cheney Stadium begins at 1 o'clock, when the thermometer hits 91 and keeps rising. Up at Lumen Field, by 6 p.m. the high slips back to 95, still breaking the mark for the highest game time temperature of 91, set in 2015. The Reign wilts, 3-0, to Gotham. The Sounders and Whitecaps draw, 2-2.

Washington Pummels UCLA
April 8, 2021

Braces by Kendall Burks and Nick Scardina on Senior Day send No. 7 Washington to a 5-1 victory over UCLA on Montlake. Charlie Ostrem collects three assists as UW moves to 10-2-0. Scardina is the first Husky since Handwalla Bwana in 2017 to have a hat trick and a brace in the same season. Burks bags both of his goals in the first 16 minutes, and it's 4-nil at halftime. Following an overtime loss at Stanford, the Huskies slip to second in the final Pac-12 standings.

Three WA Players Come Close to NCAA Title
December 3, 2021

Santa Clara, again with two starters from Washington, comes within two wins of repeating as NCAA Division I women’s champions. Sophomore goalkeeper Kylie Foutch posts her fourth shutout vs. BYU in the semifinals, but the Cougars prevail in penalties, 0-0 (3-2), before 7,600 at Santa Clara. Foutch makes eight saves, and Sally Menti makes the first Broncos penalty. Makaylie Moore, a senior from Auburn who scored two goals in BYU’s 4-1 quarterfinal win over South Carolina, starts for the Cougars in the College Cup final, which Florida State wins, 0-0 (4-3).

State of North Carolina Hosts D1 Tournaments
March 24, 2021

The NCAA Division I Competition Oversight Committee approves a proposal to consolidate the Division I Men’s and Women’s Soccer Championships by having all 48 women’s teams and all 36 men’s teams compete in Cary, North Carolina, and the surrounding areas. The move is effective for the championships, which were postponed last fall due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The committee believes having both championships in one geographic location will minimize travel and condense the overall time to conduct the tournament. Normally the women have a field of 64 teams and the men 48.

Reign's Quinn Makes History
August 6, 2021

OL Reign and Canada midfielder Quinn becomes the first openly nonbinary and first openly transgender athlete to medal in Olympic history. Quinn, 25, starts as Canada wins the 2020 Summer Games gold over Sweden, 1-1 (3-2), in a shootout at Tokyo.

Sounders Set MLS Best Start Record
July 7, 2021

Seattle establishes a record for the best start to a season in MLS history, beating Houston, 2-0, to remain unbeaten (8-0-5) through 13 matches. Kelyn Rowe and Raúl Ruidíaz supply the Sounders' goals in front of 27,421 at Lumen Field. The unbeaten run ties for the longest single-season streak in team history, props Seattle to first in the Supporters' Shield race. Rowe finally dents the Dynamo defense in the 62nd minute, tapping in a cross from Alex Roldan for his first goal since joining his hometown club. Ruidíaz gets his 10th goal in added time.

Longtime Central Coach Leaves
September 14, 2021

One of the most senior college coaches abruptly departs his position. Central Washington's Michael Farrand resigns three games into the women's season with immediate effect. The Wildcats (1-2-0) are guided by assistant coach Emmy Koflanovich for the remainder of season. Farrand leaves with an overall record of 146-204-38, highlighted by a 14-6-1 season in 2016 that ended with the program’s first-ever NCAA Division II regional appearance.

Laura Harvey Returns to Reign
July 15, 2021

Laura Harvey, architect of OL Reign's first two NWSL Shield winners, is coming home. Harvey is returning as head coach, replacing the departed Farid Benstiti. She led the Reign for their first five seasons, earning NWSL Coach of the Year honors in 2014 and 2015. She left after 2018, to coach the Utah Royals for one season. Harvey will join the team following the conclusion of the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, where she is serving as an assistant coach for the USWNT. Interim head coach Sam Laity will continue to lead the team for its next four matches.

Connell Notches 400th Career Win
October 19, 2021

Western Washington women's coach Travis Connell reaches a milestone with the Vikings' 2-0 victory over Simon Fraser at Harrington Field. It is Connell's 400th career victory. He began his head coaching tenure with the Western men's program in 1999 and added women's team responsibilities in 2003. In his 19 seasons with the women, the Vikings are 275-74-32 with eight GNAC titles and the 2016 NCAA Division II title. In Connell's 14 seasons as men's coach, WWU went 125-123-17.

Stars Back Home, Finally
December 12, 2021

Tacoma Stars play their first home game in 21 months, opening the MASL 2021-22 season before 2,198 at ShoWare Center. The Stars, who last played at home on March 1, 2020, had their last three games that year canceled due to the pandemic. In the shortened 2021 campaign, they played all 13 games on the road. Tacoma goes down 3-0 early to defending champion San Diego, then takes the lead, 4-3, five minutes into the second half on a Nick Perera goal. The Sockers score five of the game's next six goals and eventually win, 10-7.

Morris Earns Cap 10 Months After Surgery
December 18, 2021

Less than 10 months after undergoing surgery for a torn ACL, Jordan Morris is back starting for the USMNT in a friendly vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina in Carson, Ca. Morris, who plays 78 minutes, had returned to Sounders action Nov. 1 and played two regular season matches, plus a playoff game.

Lutes Secure Fourth Straight NWC Trophy
October 31, 2021

Pacific Lutheran secures its fourth consecutive Northwest Conference men's title and a berth in the NCAA Division III Tournament with a commanding 4-0 victory over George Fox in Tacoma. Cris Lozano scores his fifth goal in the last six matches after just six minutes of action, and the Lutes are off and running. Cole Dobson, Jared Simarago and Keegan Dolan tack-on second-half goals for the fifth win in a row, all by shutout.

Youth Can Play Mask-less
July 2, 2021

Washington Youth Soccer, in accordance with the State of Washington's COVID-19 reopening plan, affirms that masks are no longer necessary to wear for training and games around the state. Masks had been required for players, coaches and spectators when play restarted in February.

Eighty-Five Percent Not Enough for Solo
June 9, 2021

Hope Solo gets 85.4 percent of the National Soccer Hall of Fame vote yet is not elected in her second year of eligibility. Instead, the top two players – Christie Pearce and Steve Cherundolo, both above 89 percent – take the two permitted slots. In 2022, a third athlete will be admitted from the player ballot if they receive at least 75 percent of the vote.

Strasburg Chosen for Eastern Washington
June 23, 2021

Missy Strasburg is introduced as the fourth head coach in Eastern Washington program history and the first female to guide the program in 22 years. Strasburg takes over following a five-year assistant coach stint at the Air Force Academy. She started her coaching career in the Spokane area as a youth and high school coach at Spokane Shadow and Riverside High. Strasburg played collegiately at Gonzaga from 1997-2001, ending No. 3 in career assists.

Tacoma's Abbreviated MASL Season Ends
March 28, 2021

Tacoma's abbreviated MASL season comes to a close in the playoffs and on the road, as always. All 13 regular season and postseason games have been away from home due to COVID-19 restrictions, and yet the Stars go 4-7 and take eventual champion San Diego to overtime in both playoffs. They fall to the Sockers for the second time in three nights, 6-5, at Ontario, Ca. Game 1 of quarterfinals had an identical score.

Reign Keeps Sinking, Loses Third in a Row
July 2, 2021

OL Reign has reached its nadir. Eight hours after losing their coach, they lose their third consecutive game, 2-0 at Houston. It the longest skid since 2013, and it leaves them 2-5-1 and ninth out of 10 teams. They have scored just five goals. Farid Benstiti resigned midway through his second season on the morning of the match.

Sounders Unveil New Formation in Opener
April 16, 2021

Brian Schmetzer's new formation gets rave reviews following a comprehensive Sounders performance to open the season. Seattle, with a 3-5-2 alignment, breaks loose for four second-half goals in a 4-0 home win over Minnesota United before some 7,000 socially-distanced fans. It's the biggest margin of victory for a first game in Sounders MLS history, with Joao Paulo's sensational volley, Raul Ruidiaz scoring twice in three minutes (following a missed penalty), and Fredy Montero making his return with his 48th career goal for Seattle.

Crossfire Boys Win First ECNL Title
July 23, 2021

Crossfire Premier lays claim to the first-ever Elite Clubs National League Boys U14 national championship in St. Louis. Crossfire 07 beats San Diego Surf, 2-1, in the final. It is the first ECNL national title won by a program from Washington.

Crossfire Take First Girls' Dallas Cup
April 1, 2021

Crossfire Premier cap a dominant performance with a signature performance in the girls' U19 final of the Dallas Cup in Frisco, Tx. They crush host FC Dallas, 5-1, behind the MVP efforts of Maia Tabion, who bookends the scoring in second and 90th minutes In between, Kate Toomey (13'), Ashly Berge (70') and Alexandra Akers (89') supply goals. Crossfire finishes the tournament 5-0-0 with a goal differential of 22-1. Dallas Cup, the oldest and most prestigious U.S. youth tournament, had not previously conducted a girls' division.

Western Advances to West Title Match
November 20, 2021

Western Washington advances to the NCAA Division II Women's West Regional Championship for the eighth time in nine seasons by beating Point Loma, 1-0, in Bellingham. The second-round win is a combination of Jenna Killman's early marker and a key save by Natalie Dierickx. Killman scores her 14th goal in the seventh minute. Dierickx stops a Point Loma free kick in the 61st.

Sounders' Late Fade is Complete
November 23, 2021

They had started incredibly fast, but the Sounders complete their slow fade with a first-round playoff exit at home. Real Salt Lake upsets third-seeded Seattle in penalties, 0-0 (6-5), before a season-high crowd of 34,012. RSL advances despite failing to record a shot in regulation and overtime. The Sounders' 21 shots rarely trouble keeper David Ochoa, who makes three routine saves. Ochoa seals the shootout, denying Kelyn Rowe in the sixth round. Seattle goes 0-3-4, scoring only five goals in its last seven fixtures.

Wazzu Back on Top in Apple Cup
November 5, 2021

Washington State regains the upper hand in the Apple Cup with a dominant performance in defeating Washington, 4-2. The Cougars pick up their first win in Seattle since 2015 and clinch third place in the Pac-12, their best placement since 2013. Three goals in the first 23 minutes of the second period decide matters. It begins with a 30-yard rocket from Alyssa Gray (51'), followed by Sydney Pulver on a rebound clean-up (61') and punctuated by Margie Detrizio (68') for a 4-1 lead. The Huskies had been 2-0-1 in the three previous Apple Cup Series meetings.

Stars' Star Nick Perera Becomes WA Youth CEO
June 10, 2021

Nick Perera, best known as the prolific scorer and player/coach of the Tacoma Stars, is named executive director of Washington Youth Soccer. The captain of the U.S. Beach National Team, Perera, 35, replaces Terry Fisher, who held the post since 2009.

Seattleite Aids Santa Clara NCAA Title Win
May 17, 2021

With the aid of a young Seattleite, Santa Clara claims the NCAA Women’s College Cup via penalties against top-seeded Florida State in Cary, N.C. Freshman forward Sally Menti converts the second of four shootout attempts for the Broncos, who win, 1-1 (4-1). Menti, who scored the game-winning goal in a quarterfinal vs. Clemson, makes the all-tournament team. Kylie Foutch of Lake Stevens is the back-up keeper.

Fishlock, Harvey Command Top Honors
November 16, 2021

OL Reign original Jess Fishlock is named the NWSL Most Valuable Player and Laura Harvey earns Coach of the Year for a third time. Fishlock scored five goals and four assists, but it was her leadership that really shined as the Reign surged from a slow start to make the playoffs. Harvey returned for her second tour with the club in August and was 7-2-2 at the helm. Fishlock is joined on the league's Best XI by newcomers Alana Cook and Eugenie Le Sommer.

Roldan Assist Sends U.S. to Gold Cup Semis
July 25, 2021

Cristian Roldan of the Sounders comes off the bench to set-up the winning goal as the United States advances to the Gold Cup semifinals. Roldan substitutes in the 63rd minute and following an active 20-minute span, floats a cross from the right wing that's headed in by Matthew Hoppe in the 82nd minute. That gives the U.S. a 1-0 win over Jamaica at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Tx. Roldan had gotten his first USMNT assist vs. Martinique on July 15. His younger brother and Sounders teammate Alex Roldan made his international debut for El Salvador July 11, scoring in his debut vs. Guatemala.

Reign's Benstiti Resigns
July 2, 2021

Farid Benstiti abruptly resigns as OL Reign head coach, the announcement made just hours before a game in Houston. Assistant coach Sam Laity is named interim coach. Benstiti, hired to succeed Vlatko Andonovski in 2019, was 6-8-6 across all competitions over his year and a half at the helm. It is learned later, in September, that the Frenchman was asked to resign after an allegation of verbal abuse during a team meeting prior to the June 26 home game vs. Gotham FC.

Lavelle Scores, Balcer and Weaver Debut
November 26, 2021

A U.S. team heavily flavored with OL Reign and Washington connections defeats Australia, 3-0, in the penultimate match of 2021. Rose Lavelle of the Reign scores the game's second goal on an 8-yard, first-time shot in the 49th minute. Reign teammate Alana Cook also starts both Bethany Balcer and Morgan Weaver earn their first caps as second-half substitutes and Sofia Huerta makes her return after last playing for the USWNT in 2018. Balcer becomes the first player from an NAIA school (Spring Arbor) to be capped.

Reign Resumes Play, Winning Ways
October 10, 2021

Returning to play nearly two weeks after the NWSL was rocked by reports of mistreatment of players by coaches in the league, OL Reign beats Chicago, 3-2, extending their unbeaten run to seven games (6-0-1). It also clinches a spot in the NWSL playoffs. Jess Fishlock scores a pair and Rose Lavelle opens her Reign account. The NWSL canceled all games from Oct. 1-3 following public allegations of sexual harassment and abuse at multiple clubs over several seasons.

FIFA Inspects Seattle's 2026 World Cup Bid
October 31, 2021

FIFA and Concacaf inspection committees arrive in Seattle to tour Lumen Field and discuss the SEA 2026 bid, chaired by Sounders owner Adrian Hanauer. The group attends Sounders, Seahawks and Kraken games over two days. With 48 teams competing in a World Cup for the first time in ’26 (instead of the usual 32), approximately 16 venues are desired. Lumen Field is among several stadiums under consideration that lack a permanent grass surface.

Milestone Day for PLU Women
November 6, 2021

It's a milestone day for Pacific Lutheran with the women (18-2) setting a school-record for most wins in the NCAA Division III era with a 1-0 win at George Fox. The Lutes also set a program mark by winning a fifth straight Northwest Conference title, surpassing the previous streak of four straight set from 2016-2019 and from 1985-1988. Kimber Thomas finds the game-winner at Newberg, Or., in the 51st minute, hitting into the left corner off a pass from Hannah Cecil. It's the 14th shutout for PLU.

Five Teens Start for Sounders Win at Austin
July 22, 2021

With an MLS-record five teenagers starting, the Sounders manage to overcome the absence of 10 players to win, 1-0, at Austin. Fifteen-year-old Obed Vargas becomes the third-youngest player to ever appear in a league match. Joining Vargas are fellow teens Reed Baker-Whiting (16), Ethan Dobbelaere (18), Danny Leyva (18) and Josh Atencio (19). Also, Sam Adeniran gets his first MLS start while on loan from Tacoma. Altogether, the lineup average age is 21.4 After coming off the bench, Raul Ruidiaz scores a stunning winner from 40 yards.

Woodinville's Bartlow Drafted Sixth
January 21, 2021

Washington center back and Woodinville resident Ethan Bartlow is selected sixth overall by the Houston Dynamo in the MLS SuperDraft. Bartlow, the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year as a sophomore, becomes the UW's highest draft pick in 21 years. Two days earlier, he signed a Generation Adidas contract with MLS.

Waters Retires from Bellarmine
June 23, 2021

After 29 seasons at Bellarmine Prep, Joe Waters retires as boys' and girls' coach. Waters, who came to Tacoma to play for the MISL Stars in 1984, won two state championships with the Bellarmine boys in 2004 and 2008, and one with the girls in 2004. The 2004 boys' team was also voted as the national champion by a national coaches association.

SPU Women Finish Undefeated
May 12, 2021

With no postseason tournaments and their Senior Night match three days later canceled, Seattle Pacific puts everything into a second-half surge to beat rival Western Washington and finish the 2020 spring season undefeated. The Falcons come from behind to score four times in the final 35 minutes of a 4-1 victory at Interbay. Claire Neder sparks 7th-ranked Falcons' rally, scoring the go-ahead goal in the 68th minute and a penalty at 85'. SPU goes 8-0-1, its only blemish a 4-4 draw at Western. Only four other state varsity programs have completed undefeated seasons.

Huskies Reach NCAA Quarterfinals
May 6, 2021

Two goals in the final 25 minutes push Washington through to the NCAA quarterfinals with a 2-0 win over Missouri State in Cary, North Carolina. It's the second shutout tournament win in four days for the Huskies, who defeated Grand Canyon in the first round. Sam Fowler makes six saves, and Lucas Meek gets the go-ahead goal in the 65th minute.

Central Washington Names Lee Coach
December 31, 2021

Central Washington names Lindsey Lee as new coach of the women's program. Lee spent the last seven seasons as an assistant coach at Division I Cal Poly. She is also head coach and director of goalkeeping for the Central Coast United organization. Lee played in goal for Westmont, anchoring the Warriors' defense during their run to the 2013 NAIA championship.

Victory Clinches No. 2 Seed for Reign
October 30, 2021

Eugénie Le Sommer's brace fuels a 3-0 win at Kansas City to wrap-up the No. 2 seed in the NWSL playoffs on the final day of the regular season. It completes a complete turnaround since a midseason coaching change, with the Reign going from ninth to second (13-8-3) with 10-4-2 run. After a first-half own goal by KC, Le Sommer doubles the margin early in the second half and secures her third brace since July in the 84th minute.

Huskies Exit at Elite Eight
May 10, 2021

Washington's bid to finally reach the NCAA semifinals comes up short with a 3-0 loss to No. 2-ranked Pittsburgh in Cary, N.C. It’s 1-nil until the final two minutes, when the Panthers twice score into an open net after every UW player pushes forward. It's the second season in a row that UW has exited at the Elite Eight.

Perera Scores, USA Qualifies
May 22, 2021

The Tacoma Stars' Nick Perera scores as the U.S. Beach Men’s National Team beats Mexico, 5-2, in the semifinals of the 2021 Concacaf Beach Soccer Championship in Alajuela, Costa Rica. Perera's goal is his fourth of the tournament and puts the U.S. ahead 3-1 with 56 seconds to go until halftime. He also assists on two scores. El Salvador defeats the U.S. in the tournament final, but both teams qualify for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.

OL Reign Upset in NWSL Semis
November 14, 2021

The fizz suddenly goes out of a seemingly magical OL Reign season with a 2-1 loss to Washington in an NWSLS semifinal before 5,273 at a soggy Cheney Stadium. Eugenie Le Sommer puts the Reign in the driver's seat with a third-minute goal. However a young Spirit quickly strikes back through 19-year-old sensation Trinity Rodman (12'). Ashley Sanchez, 22, executes a clever chip from a sharp angle to beat Sarah Bouhaddi to put the visitors ahead. The Reign out-shoots Washington, 23-13, but only three tries are on-frame. The Spirit proceeds to win the NWSL championship.

Spokane Opts for Two USL Teams
December 13, 2021

A Spokane Public Facilities District committee decides the next direction for the city's professional soccer aspirations. They choose to go with women's and men's USL teams for the new downtown stadium. There will be a USL Super League (Div. II) team for women and a League One (Div. III) men's club. The USL proposal, led by Cindy Wendle, competed against Brett Sports, owner of the Spokane Chiefs hockey and Spokane Indians Minor League Baseball franchises. Brett Sports proposed bringing an MLS farm team, potentially the Tacoma Defiance.

SPU Women Complete GNAC Double
November 13, 2021

Fourth-ranked Seattle Pacific methodically completes its first Great Northwest Athletic Conference double by pounding Western Washington, 4-0, in the tournament final at Harrington Field. It's the Falcons' third GNAC postseason trophy. Nine days earlier SPU clinched its first regular season title since 2011. SPU gets an early strike and bang-bang goals to start the second half in extending its unbeaten streak to 13 games (12-0-1). Sophie Beadle scores at 92 seconds and Makena Rietz bags a brace, including the second of two SPU goals in 2:18.

We believe Seattle stands out among all cities in this country for its devotion, adoption and foundation of soccer. We wanted to demonstrate and convey that whether Switzerland plays Ghana or Mexico plays Brazil, our fans will be here to support, and fill the stadium. We did try to lay out a story that was compelling about the culture and the ecosystem and the relevance of soccer in this market.
SEA 2026 chair and Sounders owner Adrian Hanauer on the pitch to FIFA to bring World Cup games to Seattle
We believe Rose has the ability to be the best player in the world. She is an extraordinary talent that is the perfect fit for our long-term vision for the team. From the moment the trade became a possibility last year we have been focused on finding a way to bring her to the club. We are thrilled to add her to the squad and believe she can play a key role in our efforts to compete for a championship this season.
OL Reign CEO Bill Predmore on the acquisition of Rose Lavelle
Those people that don’t believe in global warming, they need to catch up on the news.
Sounders coach Brian Schmetzer on the record heat wave that includes an evening temperature of 95 at Lumen Field
This has been the goal since my first day in Seattle. To see how far this team and the league have come in nine years is incredible. We may not have always had the resources, but we always had the vision, the ambition, and the drive to be something special. Coupling the club's historic DNA with the support that OL provides has resulted in something magical. I am so happy for the players that they'll finally have the chance to show the city what they can do in a stadium worthy of their talents.
OL Reign coach Laura Harvey on the team's return to Seattle and Lumen Field
Because (the) Sounders is my home. Seattle is my home. My home base was always Seattle. Seattle was always the city we’re always looking back to. It’s gonna be really, really nice.
Fredy Montero explains his return to the Sounders after nine seasons away
This week, and much of this season, has been incredibly traumatic for our players and staff, and I take full responsibility for the role I have played. I am so sorry for the pain so many are feeling. Recognizing that trauma, we have decided not to take the field this weekend to give everyone some space to reflect. Business as usual isn't our concern right now. Our entire league has a great deal of healing to do, and our players deserve so much better.
NWSL Commissioner Lisa Baird after canceling Oct. 1-3 games in response to allegations of sexual coercion and misconduct by a former manager
We see each other like brothers, like family. We come from different countries, different cultures, and we get to share all that together.
Jayden Afua, 19, a Tanzanian immigrant on playing for Cultures United
There's a lot to be said for how much these kids have sacrificed and how hard they've worked. People in the world are certainly dealing with bigger things than playing soccer, but this has been a bit of a grind for our guys with the quarantining and being on campus, but not being able to go to in-person classes. Soccer has been one of the few normal things for them, so to now get to compete against somebody else is a huge opportunity and we're not taking it lightly.
Seattle Pacific coach Mark Collings on the eve of the 2020 season, delayed six months by the pandemic
We feel a responsibility not only to stand up for what we know we deserve as athletes, but also for what we know is right — on behalf of our teammates, future teammates, fellow women athletes, and women all around the world.
Reign FC’s Megan Rapinoe’s statement upon filing a gender discrimination lawsuit against U.S. Soccer
They've been unbelievable, they've been a pleasure to coach. They've been great role models for the Seattle soccer community and they made history. We've got a lot of proud people who are alums, who are friends of the program and part of the school. They made history and I couldn't be happier.
UW coach Jamie Clark on his team reaching the NCAA College Cup final for the first time
We believe that playing at Lumen will be a truly transformative event for the club, both on and off the pitch. It is going to massively, massively elevate the experience for players, and for fans at the matches. And I think really we have the opportunity to reshape the perception of women’s soccer in our community.
OL Reign founder and CEO Bill Predmore on the club's move to Lumen Field
That’s one thing about me, I’ve always had confidence in what I do. The coaching staff and my brother as well put confidence in me to step in there. Luckily we were able to come out with a win. That’s the best part.
Sounders defender Alex Roldan after being pressed into emergency goalkeeping duty
If you speak to most people around the league and ask the coaches if they could take one player from our team, it would always be [Jess]. I think that’s just a compliment of what she’s always brought to this team. The journey that she’s been on to get to this point has been phenomenal. I’m glad that she’s getting some recognition that she deserves.
OL Reign head coach Laura Harvey on Jess Fishlock being voted NWSL MVP
He has big ambitions to play in Europe and he had a lot of offers, so to think that we have got him is a really good thing. It’s a different challenge for Jordan, but we are looking forward to working with him.
Swansea City manager Steve Cooper on the loan acquisition of Jordan Morris
Let’s f*****g go! Let’s just go and smash everybody. I can’t wait to get out there and show people what we can be as a club and try and push us to the full potential that I believe we have now and push us to what our potential can be as a club long term.
Laura Harvey's remarks upon rejoining OL Reign as coach midway through 2021
2020-21 College Men's Records
Evergreen Opted Out
Gonzaga 2-9-0
Northwest 4-6-1
Pacific Lutheran 10-4-0
Puget Sound 5-7-2
Saint Martin's 2-7-1
Seattle University 6-4-1
Seattle Pacific 3-2-1
Walla Wall Opted Out
Washington 12-4-0
Western Washington 3-1-1
Whitman 6-5-1
Whitworth 3-7-1
2020-21 Collegiate Women's Records
Central Washington 2-3-0
Eastern Washington 5-4-2
Evergreen Opted Out
Gonzaga 7-3-1
Northwest 5-6-1
Pacific Lutheran 6-3-1
Puget Sound 7-4-0
Saint Martin's 1-10-0
Seattle University 12-5-2
Seattle Pacific 8-0-1
Washington 10-4-4
Washington State 6-3-3
Western Washington 4-1-2
Whitman 0-7-0
Whitworth 4-4-1
2021 Collegiate Men's Records
Evergreen 6-9-2
Gonzaga 7-10-0
Northwest 10-7-2
Pacific Lutheran 14-6-1
Puget Sound 8-7-3
Saint Martin's 4-13-0
Seattle University 13-8-1
Seattle Pacific 12-4-2
Walla Walla 1-13-1
Washington 18-2-2
Western Washington 7-8-2
Whitman 13-4-1
Whitworth 8-8-2
2021 Collegiate Women's Records
Central Washington 5-13-0
Eastern Washington 5-12-0
Evergreen 3-12-1
Gonzaga 15-5-0
Northwest 10-7-3
Pacific Lutheran 18-3-0
Puget Sound 16-2-2
Saint Martin's 4-14-0
Seattle University 7-8-4
Seattle Pacific 19-2-1
Washington 6-8-4
Washington State 14-3-4
Western Washington 15-5-3
Whitman 2-15-2
Whitworth 11-6-1
College & High School All-America
Player (Hometown) College (Div-Tm/Pos)
Elyse Bennett (De Pere, Wi.) Washington St. (D1-2nd/F)
Ryan Sailor (Centennial, Co.) Washington (D1-1st/D)
Dylan Teves (Kailua, Hi.) Washington (D1-1st/F)
Sophia Chilczuk (Kent, Wa.) Seattle Pacific (D2-1st/F)
Lucas King (Seattle, Wa.) Colo. Mines (D2-2nd/M)
Alex Mejia (Seattle, Wa.) Seattle Pacific (D2-1st/F)
Makena Rietz (Walla Walla, Wa.) Seattle Pacific (D2-2nd/M)
Tera Ziemer (Santa Rosa, Ca.) Western Wash. (D2-2nd/M)
Ella Merte (Auburn, Wa.) Pac. Lutheran (D3-1/D)
Professional All-League
Player (Pos) Team (Lg-Tm)
Yeimar Gomez Andrade (D) Sounders (MLS-1st)
Joao Paulo (M) Sounders (MLS-1st)
Raul Ruidiaz (F) Sounders (MLS-1st)
Jessica Fishlock (F) Reign (NWSL-1st)
Alana Cook (D) Reign (NWSL-1st)
Eugenie Le Sommer (D) Reign (NWSL-1st)
Sofia Huerta (D) Reign (NWSL-2nd)
Bethany Balcer (F) Reign (NWSL-2nd)
WIAA Championship Games
Girls 4A Camas 1Issaquah 0
Girls 3A Lakeside 2Seattle Prep 1
Girls 2A Archbishop Murphy 2Hockinson 0
Girls 1A Deer Park 1Seattle Academy 0
Girls 1B/2B Kalama 1Adna 0
Boys 1B/2B Orcas Island 2Providence Classical 1
Highlights: Sounders v Houston, July 7, 2021

VIDEO: Highlights: Sounders v Houston, July 7, 2021

Raul Ruidiaz MLS Goal of the Week vs Austin

VIDEO: Raul Ruidiaz MLS Goal of the Week vs Austin

Highlights: Sounders vs Minnesota, April 16, 2021

VIDEO: Highlights: Sounders vs Minnesota, April 16, 2021

Highlights: Sounders at Portland, Aug. 15, 2021

VIDEO: Highlights: Sounders at Portland, Aug. 15, 2021

Sarah Bouhaddi NWSL Save of the Week

VIDEO: Sarah Bouhaddi NWSL Save of the Week

2021 NWSL MVP: Jessica Fishlock Highlights

VIDEO: 2021 NWSL MVP: Jessica Fishlock Highlights

Highlights: OL Reign vs Portland Thorns, Aug. 29, 2021

VIDEO: Highlights: OL Reign vs Portland Thorns, Aug. 29, 2021

Joao Paulo MLS Goal of the Week vs Colorado

VIDEO: Joao Paulo MLS Goal of the Week vs Colorado

WA Legends Webinar: Learning from the Pros

VIDEO: WA Legends Webinar: Learning from the Pros

Conversations with a Legend, Olympic Edition: Hope Solo

VIDEO: Conversations with a Legend, Olympic Edition: Hope Solo

Conversations with a Legend, Olympic Edition: Kasey Keller

VIDEO: Conversations with a Legend, Olympic Edition: Kasey Keller

Highlights: 2021 NCAA Semifinal, Washington vs. GeorgetownUW Defeats Georgetown

VIDEO: Highlights: 2021 NCAA Semifinal, Washington vs. GeorgetownUW Defeats Georgetown

Highlights: 2021 NCAA Quarterfinal, Washington vs St. Louis

VIDEO: Highlights: 2021 NCAA Quarterfinal, Washington vs St. Louis

Highlights: Leagues Cup Semifinal, Sounders v Santos Laguna, Sept. 13, 2021

VIDEO: Highlights: Leagues Cup Semifinal, Sounders v Santos Laguna, Sept. 13, 2021

On this Day in History
July 16, 2014
Logan Griffis, 19 and a 2013 King’s HS graduate, is one of seven Washington referees chosen to officiate the USYSA National Championships in Frisco, Tex. Later, Griffis referees the 4A girls state championship game and a 3A semifinal, and the Kirkland resident officiates five matches at the U.S. Soccer Development Academy Winter Showcase. In almost six years, Griffis has officiated approximately 1,500 soccer games.
More from 2014 ›
July 21, 2009
Stephen King scores the game-winning goal in the fifth minute of overtime to give the Seattle Sounders FC a 2-1 comeback win over the Houston Dynamo in a Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup semifinal at Starfire Sports Stadium before 4,895. Nate Jaqua, playing with a bandaged head since the 10th minute, sends the match into overtime with a goal in the 89th minute. King beats Gig Harbor's Tally Hall for the winner. Seattle dominates, with a 16-2 advantage in shots, 12-0 after halftime. Three shots hit the post or crossbar. The win is part of a nine-game unbeaten run (6-0-3) across all competitions between June 13 and July 25.
More from 2009 ›
July 30, 2010
Freddie Ljungberg, Seattle's first blockbuster signing, is sent to Chicago in exchange for a conditional selection in the 2011 or 2012 SuperDraft. The move allows new Designated Player signing Alvaro Fernandez, to be added to the roster. Ljungberg had been named to the MLS Best XI in 2009 after leading the team with nine assists. The Sounders' highest-paid player at $1.3M, he had been seeking a contract extension and had not played since July 4. During the interim he was held out presumably for an ankle injury but trained on his own after reaching an impasse with management.
More from 2010 ›
May 10, 1994
Gina Cassella is among six assistants named to Sounders head coach Alan Hinton’s staff. Cassella, 28, becomes the first known female coach for a U.S. professional men’s team. She is a former U.S. National Team member who coaches the girls’ and boys’ teams at Bothell High School. Joining her are former NASL Sounders Tony Chursky, Tommy Jenkins, Frank Barton, Bernie James, plus Dale Baskett.
More from 1994 ›