Sounders Drought Continues
June 24, 2023
Stefan Frei earns his league-leading 10th shutout of the season, but the Sounders' scoring drought continues with a scoreless home draw against Orlando City. Seattle still sits third in the West but has gone scoreless in three straight home matches and five of the last seven overall. It has just six points from the last seven outings. Missing due to international call-ins are Jordan Morris, Cristian Roldan and Alex Roldan, plus Raul Ruidiaz is in Peru following the sudden death of his father.
Reign Lose Rapinoe, Then NWSL Final
November 11, 2023
OL Reign's quest to send Megan Rapinoe into retirement with a first NWSL championship goes awry from the outset in a 2-1 loss to Gotham FC before 25,011 in San Diego. Three minutes into the match, Rapinoe goes to ground without any contact. It's later diagnosed as a torn right Achilles. In the 24th minute, Gotham goes in front as Lynn Williams takes Midge Purce's cross and tucks it past Reign keeper Claudia Dickey. Five minutes later, Rose Lavelle scores to level it at 1-1 on a breakaway. However, in first-half stoppage time Purce finds Esther González Rodríguez for a header. Veronica Latsko forces a diving save at 60' from Mandy Haught, and Elysse Bennett nearly beats Haught with a looping header seven minutes into stoppage time, with the Gotham keeper committing a handball outside the box to deny it. Haught is sent off but the Reign cannot capitalize in the remaining time, losing its third final.
Columbia River Rolls On in 2A Boys
May 27, 2023
Getting two goals from state player of the year Alex Harris, Columbia River completes a perfect season with a 4-2 win over North Kitsap in the boys' 2A championship game in Puyallup. The Rapids (24-0-0) score three times in a 7-minute span of the second half to go up 4-1 on strikes by Tyler Brown (58'), J.P. Guzman (59') and Harris (65'). Harris and teammate Cole Benner are also playing the state tennis tournament, 25 miles north in Seattle. North Kitsap had won 19 in a row going into the final.
Ballard FC Adopts Memorial as '24 Home
October 10, 2023
Ballard FC announces that Memorial Stadium will serve as its interim home in 2024. The USL League Two champions could not use Interbay Stadium due to scheduled refitting to be ADA compliant. Ballard FC may be one of the final acts to play at Memorial, opened in 1947 and due for redevelopment and reopening in 2026. It was home to the Sounders' NASL and USL eras, as well as the Seattle Reign early on.
Solo, Zungul Among Hall of Fame Inductees
May 6, 2023
Tacoma Stars scoring giant Steve Zungul and Hope Solo, unrivaled great goalkeeper for Richland, Washington, Reign and U.S. National Team, are inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in Frisco, Texas. While Zungul is joined by four others in the Class of 2023, Solo had deferred her induction from 2022. The all-time scoring leader and six-time MVP in the MISL, Zungul is the first member chosen primarily for his play indoors, including 1986-88 with Tacoma. Solo won two World Cups and Olympic gold medals, was twice the World Cup Golden Glove winner and was the first keeper named U.S. Soccer Player of the Year in 2009. The late journalist Grant Wahl, who once resided in Seattle, is posthumously honored with the Colin Jose Media Award.
Morris Bags Record Four Goals
March 25, 2023
Jordan Morris continues his torrid start by bagging a record four goals as the Sounders secure their first MLS road win in 11 matches, 4-1, at Kansas City. Seattle is without six regulars due to international call-ins and falls behind after five minutes. But Morris equalizes before halftime, then adds three goals in 32 minutes of the second half. Trailing, Sporting plays the final 27 minutes with 10 men. Morris has seven goals in Seattle's 3-1-1 start. Left winger Léo Chú makes his first start and sets another club mark with four assists.
Gonzaga Continues Mastery of UP
October 4, 2023
Gonzaga strikes twice in 79 seconds to come from behind and win, 2-1, at Portland. It extends the GU women's unbeaten string against the Pilots to six games (5-0-1) since 2017. Trailing since MacKenzie Frimpong-Ellertson's 6' opener, the Bulldogs tie it in 79' on Chelsea Le's shot from well outside the box. Just over a minute later, Maddie Kemp's corner kick is banged home by Grace Courter. Lauren Towne makes nine saves against Portland, which had been unbeaten in eight.
Threepeat Bid Fizzzles for USWNT
August 7, 2023
Bidding to become the first nation to win three consecutive FIFA Women's World Cups, the United States instead makes its earliest tournament exit. Sweden advances at the expense of the USWNT, 0-0 (5-4), in a Round of 16 match in Melbourne, Australia. Megan Rapinoe, after coming on in the 99th minute, sends her fourth-round tiebreaker penalty over the crossbar. It was her first penalty miss in five years. Her Reign teammate Emily Sonnett started and played 120 minutes. Rose Lavelle missed the game through yellow card accumulation.
Oregon State Ousts Seattle U
November 16, 2023
Charlie Lanphier makes six saves to keep it close, but Seattle University succumbs to Oregon State in overtime, 2-1, in the first-round NCAA game at Corvallis. The Beavers who lost at Seattle U Sept. 7 despite a commanding advantage in shots, are aggressive again, finishing 23-3 in shots. Although Mo Mohamed forces extra time, Fran Cortijo quickly gets OSU the winner in 1:43.
Rough & Tumble, Ballard FC Join Common Goal
April 13, 2023
Ballard's Rough & Tumble and Ballard FC join Common Goal, pledging 1% of their business revenue to sport-based social initiatives. Rough & Tumble will direct its ongoing donation to Football For Her, a California-based nonprofit, co-founded by OL Reign captain Lauren Barnes, that provides safe spaces for young people who identify as female or nonbinary to play soccer. Ballard FC pledged its revenue toward Common Goal's Play Proud initiative, to make communities and stadiums safer for LGBTQ+ people.
Chú, Yeimar Bring Sounders from Behind
July 8, 2023
Seattle finally ends a year of Cascadia misery by coming from behind at BC Place to beat Vancouver on Yeimar's stoppage time winner. It's the Sounders first win over the Whitecaps or Timbers since June 2022 after going 0-5-1. With his first multi-goal game, Léo Chú twice brings the visitors level. His shot in the first minute of stoppage time is deflected to Yeimar for the winner. Not since 2020 has Seattle found a winning goal in added time. Jackson Ragen, Yeimar's central defense partner, twice uses his head to assist Chú.
Sounders Silenced, Eliminated by LAFC
November 26, 2023
Defending MLS Cup champion LAFC snuffs out Seattle's bid for a third title by silencing the Sounders attack and over 33,000 at Lumen Field in the Western Conference semifinals. Denis Bouanga capitalizes on a midfield turnover to race down the left flank and beat Stefan Frei in the 30th minute. Bouanga has scored at least once in six straight matches. Yeimar sees his equalizing attempt cleared off the line at 76', and Alex Roldan's long drive is tipped away by Maxime Crepeau. It's Seattle's first home playoff loss in 19 games dating back to 2013.
Seattle in Bid to Host Women's World Cup
December 9, 2023
Seattle and Lumen Field are among 11 U.S. venues proposed in the joint bid by the United States and Mexico for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup. Seattle, like the other 10 American cities, is a host venue for the 2026 men's World Cup. Magnuson Park, the University of Washington, Starfire and Genesee Playfield in Columbia City are listed as potential training sites.
Lincoln Wins All-Seattle Final
May 27, 2023
Lincoln of Seattle earns its first state championship in any sport since its 2019 reopening with a 1-0 victory over Metro League rival Ballard in the boys' Class 3A state championship game at Sparks Stadium. Wren Wagner scores from 16 yards in the 27th minute, and Tomas Sanchez Swenson makes a last-minute save to preserve the shutout. The Lynx finish 21-0-1 while the Beavers won eight straight after falling in the Metro quarterfinals. It's the fifth straight 3A final featuring at least one Seattle team.
Reign Has Five on U.S. World Cup Roster
June 21, 2023
OL Reign has five players named by Vlatko Andonovski for the World Cup roster. It's the most of any NWSL team. Selected are Alana Cook, Sofia Huerta, Rose Lavelle, Megan Rapinoe and Emily Sonnett. In addition, Jordyn Huitema and Quinn represent Canada, and Angelina is on Brazil's roster.
Perera Pads Goal Total in Win at Argentina
November 9, 2023
Nick Perera tacks on another goal to his all-time team record total as the U.S. finishes the year with a 5-2 friendly beach soccer win at Argentina. Perera, who plays for the Tacoma Stars, assists on the first score and tallies the second. It's the 114th of his career in 94 appearances.
Record Crowd Turns Out to Honor Rapinoe
October 6, 2023
Seattle fans turn out in droves, setting an NWSL attendance record of 34,130 at Lumen Field for Megan Rapinoe's final regular season home match. OL Reign settles for a 0-0 draw with Washington. Before kickoff there are video tributes from Billie Jean King, Abby Wambach and Mikaela Shiffrin, among others. A tifo is unfurled and dozens of pink-wigged spectators give her a standing ovation following her postgame remarks. Rapinoe, Lauren Barnes and Jessica Fishlock have played for the Reign since its first season in 2013.
Sounders Ownership Group Grows
August 16, 2023
The Sounders FC ownership group gains three more investors. The families of Amazon executive Adam Selipsky, Redapt co-founder Rick Cantu and real estate developer Jay Stein are the latest additions.
Rodrigues Sets Defiance Goals Mark
September 15, 2023
Braudilio Rodrigues hits the Real Monarchs for a brace as the Tacoma Defiance wins its fourth in a row with a 3-0 road victory. The two goals boost Rodrigues' total to 15, setting a season record. He is tied for fourth in MLS NEXT Pro scoring. Gio Miglietti adds a goal, his fifth as a substitute. The Defiance finish the regular season with six-match unbeaten run.
Lavelle Wins Star of the Year
February 28, 2023
OL Reign's Rose Lavelle wins the women's 88th Sports Star of the Year award at Seattle's Westin Hotel. Lavelle scored five goals for the Reign and four for the U.S. National Team, which won the 2022 Concacaf W Championship to earn berths to the 2023 World Cup and 2024 Olympics. Western Washington's NCAA champions were also up for the honor.
Sounders Clinch Playoff Return
October 4, 2023
Cristian Roldan scores deep into stoppage time to give the Sounders a playoff-clinching 2-1 victory over the LA Galaxy. Seattle, after missing the MLS Cup Playoffs for the first time in 2022, earns its 14th postseason appearance with two matches to play. Jordan Morris heads in a Joao Paulo cross in the 9th minute for his 11th goal. Tied 1-1 six minutes into added time, Alex Roldan throws deep to Josh Atencio, who flicks on for Roldan to bury. The Sounders earn points for the seventh straight match (3-0-4).
Latsko Scores, Reign Upsets San Diego
November 5, 2023
Veronica Latsko's second game-winner in as many playoff games gives OL Reign a 1-0 upset of San Diego in an NSWL semifinal played before 32,262 at Snapdragon Stadium. Latsko, whose 87' strike beat Angel City in the first round, sees her intended cross drop behind Wave keeper Kailen Sheridan in the 47th minute. Claudia Dickey makes four saves to collect her fourth straight clean sheet. The Reign moves to 7-0-2 vs. NWSL Shield winner San Diego.
U.S. Wins Women's Deaf Crown
October 6, 2023
Guided by Washington's Amy Griffin, the U.S. Women’s Deaf National Team defeats Turkey, 3-0, to win its third World Championship in Kuala Lampur, Malaysia. Fall City's Paris Price starts the final, plus three other matches. She contributes two assists during the tournament.
Gonzaga Stuns No. 15 Santa Clara
October 29, 2023
Gonzaga snaps a 15-year winless streak against WCC powerhouse Santa Clara with a nationally-televised 1-0 upset of the No. 15 Broncos at Luger Field. Lauren Towne stops six shots, and Chelsea Le scores a 40' penalty kick set up by a foul on Katelyn Rigg. The Bulldogs had beaten Santa Clara only once before, in 2007. It's their first win over a ranked team since 2017.
Vargas Starts in U20 World Cup Knockout
June 4, 2023
Seattle Sounders teen Obed Vargas starts in midfield for the United States in its quarterfinal vs. Uruguay at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Argentina. It's the third start and fifth appearance for Vargas, 18. In October, he sees action in an Olympic Team friendly vs. Mexico.
Stars Steamroll Dallas, Perera Hits Marks
March 25, 2023
Needing a win to stay alive in the MASL playoff race, the Tacoma Stars pummel Dallas, 12-3, in the final home game at accesso ShoWare Center. Tacoma completes the three-game home stand with three consecutive wins and a combined 31 goals scored. It's 4-0 after one quarter, with Nick Perera scoring and becomes only the second player with 200 career assists. Perera scores an empty-net goal in the final frame, becoming the fourth player in MASL history to reach the 400 regular-season point club.
Huitema Scores, Canada Qualifies
September 22, 2023
OL Reign striker Jordyn Huitema helps Canada reach the 2024 Paris Summer Games with her 18th international goal. In as substitute role, Huitema gives Canada the lead against Jamaica in the 50th minute of the second leg Concacaf Olympic qualifier in Toronto. Canada wins the game, 2-0, and the aggregate, 4-1.
Reign's Barnes First to Reach 200 Appearances
June 10, 2023
OL Reign captain Lauren Barnes is the first NWSL player to reach 200 regular season appearances, starting and playing the entire 90 minutes in the Reign’s 2-1 home win over Kansas City. During her 11 seasons with the Reign, Barnes, 34, has only missed 14 of 214 regular season matches. She also holds NWSL records for starts (196) and minutes (17,328).
Multi-Goal Games for Balcer, Fishlock
April 22, 2023
Bethany Balcer gets two goals in the first 20 minutes, and Jess Fishlock adds two goals in OL Reign's 5-2 smashing of Chicago at Lumen Field. It's the first time two Reign players have had multi-goal efforts in the same regular season game. Megan Rapinoe, returning from a leg injury, scores in her debut after coming off the bench at halftime. It's Seattle's first five-goal game since 2021.
Whitworth's Friesen Reaches 25 Goals
October 29, 2023
Cole Friesen’s third hat trick of the year fuels Whitworth's 6-2 romp over Willamette at Spokane. Friesen scores at 20’, 57’ and 85’, taking his season total to a record 22 goals. He also assists on Beckett Arthur’s two goals in the opening 19 minutes. Karl Muelheims, the Pirates' assistant coach, held the program record of 21 goals. Friesen eventually takes the new record to 25 goals.
Gallimore Appointed Reign GM
May 31, 2023
Lesle Gallimore, a legend on Montlake over 26 seasons, is named OL Reign general manager. Gallimore replaces Nick Perera, who resigned in March after 13 months in the post. She led the Washington program from 1994-2019, twice earning Pac-12 Coach of the Year honors and making 15 NCAA tournament appearances. Since 2020, Gallimore has served as commissioner of the Girls Academy.
Central Washington Sounders Win at NPL
July 12, 2023
The Central Washington Sounders Elite Academy team win the National Premier League boys' U14 title in Denver by defeating the HDS Eagles (Ill.), 3-1. In the U19 girls' final, CCV Stars (Az.) edge FC Edmonds, 2-1, in overtime.
League Two Club Sprouts in Bellevue
December 26, 2023
Washington adds its fourth USL League Two club on Boxing Day as Midlakes United announces it will begin play in 2024 at Bellevue College. The following day, owner and general manager Treencee Russell names local legend Justi Baumgardt Yamada as the first known female head coach of a USL men's team.
Ballard Rallies to Win West Final
July 28, 2023
Stas Korzeniowski's hat trick fuels the comeback, and Charlie Gaffney finds the winner for Ballard FC as it rallies to win the USL League Two Western Conference final, 4-3, over the Ventura County Fusion, in Flint, Mich. Korzeniowski brings Ballard from 2-nil down late in regulation to a 3-2 lead. The Fusion knot the score, but Gaffney's smash from outside the box at 103' wins it. Two days later Ballard beats host Flint City, 1-0, in the semifinals.
Defiance's Webber Promoted
November 20, 2023
Wade Webber's success in guiding the Tacoma Defiance in terms of both development and competitive success is rewarded with a promotion. Webber is elevated to Sounders FC director of development while Henry Brauner moves from player development VP to Seattle's technical director. Webber was 38-24-22 in three seasons, taking Tacoma to the MLS NEXT Pro playoffs in his final two seasons.
Homegrown Rothrock Proves Unlikely Hero
May 13, 2023
Paul Rothrock makes a profound impact in his first MLS appearance, scoring the Sounders' winning goal four minutes into his substitute shift at Houston. A Seattle native who had been playing for Tacoma Defiance, is signed on a short-term loan on match day. He debuts in the 83rd minute and scores to snap a scoreless tie in the 87th minute. Seattle is now 11-1-0 against Houston in the last 12 meetings. Rothrock, who played in the Sounders Academy before college, made two U.S. Open Cup appearances for the Sounders in the previous three weeks, scoring in each.
SPU Bumps Off No. 2 Colorado Mines
September 16, 2023
After losing two of their last three and going a goal down on the road, Seattle Pacific turns matters around to upset No. 2-ranked and undefeated Colorado School of Mines, 2-1, in Golden, Colo. Taylor Krueger answers the Orediggers' opener in the 35th minute, then finds freshman substitute Andi Buckley for the winner midway through the second half. It's the start of a 15-game unbeaten run for the Falcons.
Perera, U.S. Win Concacaf Beach Title
May 14, 2023
Nick Perera of the Tacoma Stars is voted the Gold Ball after the United States reclaims the Concacaf Beach Soccer championship in Nassau, Bahamas. Perera scores in the 5-0 victory over Mexico in the final. He had back-to-back hat tricks during the group stage and finishes the tournament with nine goals. The U.S. wins its first regional title since 2013.
Northwest Upset Secures NAIA Berth
November 8, 2023
Grace Burke finds joy early, and Northwest University goes on to upset Eastern Oregon to secure an automatic NAIA tournament berth, 1-0, over Eastern Oregon in the Cascade Conference semifinals. Fifth in the regular season, the Eagles' third straight win and second by shutout earn their fifth national tournament appearance at the expense of the No. 3 seed Mountaineers in Springfield, Ore. Burke scores in the 15th minute. NU falls via penalties, 1-1 (2-0), to College of Idaho in the CCC title match.
Walla Walla Still Searching for 'W'
October 29, 2023
Walla Walla’s frustrations continue with a 2-0, season-ending men's home loss to Bushnell. The Wolves finish 0-14 and go winless for the second year in a row, scoring just four goals. They have not had an on-field win since before the pandemic, going 1-50-1 back to Sept. 22, 2019.
Gonzaga Claims First WCC Championship
November 4, 2023
Giana Riley hits for a hat trick to power 19th-ranked Gonzaga past Pepperdine, 3-1, at Malibu, for the first West Coast Conference championship for the women. Riley stakes the visitors to a lead after just 3:05 and doubles it in the 19th minute. She scores her third of the game and 12th of the season to crush the Wave's comeback hopes in the 73rd.
Seattle Sweeps West Winner St. Louis
October 21, 2023
Seattle closes out the regular season impressively, completing a sweep of Western Division winner St. Louis City, 2-0. Stefan Frei makes a 5th-minute save off a free kick and goes on to post his MLS-leading 14th shutout, a new club record. The Sounders start on the front foot, taking the lead after 23 minutes when Cristian Roldan spots Albert Rusnak. Reed Baker-Whiting's shot deflects in for an own goal at 38'. After a fast start followed by a midseason lull, Seattle goes undefeated (4-0-5) down the stretch.
Spokane Women's Club Named Zephyr
November 5, 2023
A crowd approaching 2,000 at the historic Davenport Hotel witnesses the announcement of Spokane's name and crest for the new USL Super League women's team. Zephyr FC, says club president Katie Harnetiaux, is named for "a wind from the west." The crest features a stylized 'Z' to reflect the movement of wind. Its colors resemble that of the League One men's Velocity: teal, dark gray and gold. Play for the new Division 1 club begins in August 2024.
Lodeiro Confirms Sounders Exit
December 4, 2023
Nicolas Lodeiro, maestro to the top achievements in Sounders history, makes his departure official after seven-plus seasons. Lodeiro, 34, is a free agent following the expiration of his contract. He pulled the strings in midfield but also commanded respect and was a respected captain. During his tenure, Seattle played in four MLS Cup finals (winning two) and became the first MLS club to win the Concacaf Champions League. A month later, on Jan. 4, 2024, Lodeiro signs with Orlando City.
Wingo Scores for Fast-Starting Ferencvaros
September 30, 2023
Seattle's Henry Wingo scores as Ferencvaros wins its fifth straight to open the Hungarian first division season, 6-1, at MTK. It's Wingo's first league goal and second overall for the defender in five seasons with Ferencvaros, which has won the last five league titles.
Rapinoe, Reign Clinch Berth Emphatically
October 15, 2023
Megan Rapinoe scores two quick second-half goals to send OL Reign to a 3-0 win at Chicago, clinching a playoff berth in the final regular season match. Rapinoe, whose pro career started with the WPS Red Stars in 2009, scores her first goals in free play since a win over Chicago in April. The first comes from the edge of the box in the 47th minute, and at 50' she slips in another. The Reign, which had been winless in four (0-2-2), finish fourth in the table.
Hawkins Named to U17 World Cup Team
October 25, 2023
Stuart Hawkins of Fox Island and the Sounders Academy is named to the United States Youth National Team for the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Indonesia. Hawkins, a central defender, starts the final three of the four U.S. matches. Germany eliminates the Americans, 3-2, in the Round of 16.
Cook Scores for U.S. on Birthday
April 11, 2023
OL Reign central defender Alana Cook registers her first international goal, and it's the difference in the United States' 1-0 friendly win over Ireland in St. Louis. Cook, on her 26th birthday, sends a 40-yard ball high into the goalmouth. It evades defenders and floats over the keeper and into the net.
Stars Surge to Reach Postseason
March 30, 2023
Third-quarter goals from Jamael Cox and Kyle Rivers are sufficient for the Tacoma Stars to hold off the host Empire Strykers, 4-3, in Ontario, Canada. It's the fourth win in five games for the Stars and proves enough to reach the MASL play-in stage. Nick Perera assists on the first two goals, by Cory Keitz and Mike Ramos.
Seattle Gets a Second USL 2 Club
December 16, 2023
Seattle's second USL League Two franchise comes to life with the formation of West Seattle Junction FC. Co-owners Jessica Pierce & Kaitlyn Jackson will launch the men’s team at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex in 2024 and a women’s USL W League team in 2025. Junction FC joins Ballard FC and Oly Town FC as local sides in the Northwest Division.
Quinn Makes History at World Cup
July 21, 2023
In Canada's opening match against Nigeria in Melbourne, Australia, OL Reign midfielder Quinn becomes the first out transgender player to play at a FIFA World Cup. Quinn starts and plays the full 90 of a 0-0 draw. They went on to play each of Canada's three matches (1-1-1).
Original 1985 USWNT Reunited
July 1, 2023
For the first time in 38 years the original U.S. Women's National Team is reunited and honored at halftime of the USL W League match in Asheville, N.C. Seven members of the 1985 team coached by Seattle's Mike Ryan were from Washington. Among those attending are Michelle Akers and Lori Henry, who would go on to win the first World Cup in 1991. Asheville City co-owner Stacey Enos was also a member of that team. Enos led the reunion organizing effort.
Seattle Pacific Advances to Third Round
November 18, 2023
Seemingly comfortable in tight games, Seattle Pacific finds the goal to separate from Cal State L.A., 1-0, and advance to the third round of the NCAA tournament at Interbay Stadium. Lauren Forster finishes Taylor Krueger's cross at the far post in the 56th minute. Mercedes Cullen makes four second-half saves to secure the shutout, and the Falcons win their 10th one-goal game. They fall to Point Loma, the eventual champion, in the following round.
Defiance Deals Colorado First Loss
June 18, 2023
After going winless in six matches, the Tacoma Defiance finds the winning combination at Denver, dealing the Colorado Rapids 2 their first loss, 2-1. Sixteen-year-old Stuart Hawkins gets his first professional in just the ninth minute, launching a long ball into the top-left corner of the net. Tacoma doubles its lead not 10 minutes later when Gio Miglietti runs onto a long goal kick from Andrew Thomas and chips the onrushing keeper. It's the first of four straight victories for the Defiance, lifting them to first in the West by July 9.
Sounders Reach World Stage, Exit Early
February 4, 2023
No sooner do the Seattle Sounders become the first U.S. team to compete at the FIFA Club World Cup and they are eliminated. A late goal by Egypt's Al Ahly sends Seattle home from Morocco after falling 1-0 in its second round opener. The Sounders, who qualified by winning the 2022 Concacaf Champions League, are playing their first competitive match in three months. Al Ahly, with strong traveling support from Cairo, has played more than 20 times, including seven since New Year's Day. The Red Devils are unbeaten in league play. Seattle holds its own but succumbs in the 88th minute. Al Ahly’s Afsha smacks a long shot against the crossbar, it caroms off Alex Roldan and into the back of the net. Ah Ahly proceeded to lose to eventual champion Real Madrid, 4-1.
OL Reign Put Up for Sale
April 12, 2023
On the eve of the NWSL home opener, OL Groupe puts OL Reign up for sale. The club’s French parent company owns an 89.5% stake, Bill and Teresa Predmore retained 7.5% and former NBA star Tony Parker, an OL brand ambassador in the U.S., holds a 3% stake. The sale has been triggered by Washington Spirit owner Michele Kang buying OL Groupe’s Olympique Lyonnais women’s team. Kang paid a reported $35 million for the Spirit.
Brown Exits Newman After 35 Years
February 9, 2023
Tacoma native Cliff Brown parts ways with Wichita's Newman University after 35 years as men's head coach. Brown guided the Jets to four NAIA national tournaments and was a four-time Midlands Collegiate Athletic Conference coach of the year. His final records stands at 288-319-43.
WA Players Figure in NCAA Title
December 9, 2023
Bellevue's Mara Sovde and Seattle's Niki Ross are among the six players from Washington who win an NCAA Division II championship for California's Point Loma. the Sea Lions defeat Washburn (Kan.), 1-0, in the final at Matthews, N.C. Sovde is a mainstay for a defense that allowed only 11 goals for the season. Ross scored seven goals to earn PacWest Freshman of the Year.
Developer Chosen for Memorial Stadium
June 15, 2023
Seattle Public Schools and the City of Seattle enter into discussions with One Roof Partnership to redevelop aging Memorial Stadium at Seattle Center. One Roof – comprised of the One Roof Foundation, Seattle Kraken and Oak View Group – proposes to build a new $120 million, 8,000-10,000-person capacity stadium to host student athletics, community events, arts and culture. SPS will continue to own the facility and maintain priority use. The goal is to break ground by the end of 2024 and open by May or June of 2026. The stadium’s rich history and Memorial Wall will be preserved.
Seattle U Edges Huskies
September 21, 2023
The newly-named Fewing Cup goes down to the wire before Seattle University nips the winner over 20th-ranked Washington, 3-2, at Championship Field. The Huskies twice tie it, but Richy Lapointe-Guevara put SU ahead to stay in the 85th minute. Trophy namesake Peter Fewing played for UW and coached 29 seasons at SU.
Sounders Name New President of Business
February 16, 2023
Sounders FC majority owner Adrian Hanauer outlines a six-year growth strategy while also naming experience sports executive Hugh Weber as president of business operations. Weber, a Tacoma native, comes from Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, where he served as president for the parent company of the NBA Philadelphia 76ers, NHL New Jersey Devils, Prudential Center and other holdings including Premier League club Crystal Palace. Peter Tomozawa, who had served as Sounders president of business operations, has been appointed CEO fo SEA 2026, the local World Cup organizing committee.
Seattle U Reaches Top 10
November 7, 2023
After 56 seasons, Seattle University breaks into the top 10 of Division I. The Redhawks, going unbeaten (8-0-2) down the stretch, are ranked 9th in the final United Soccer Coaches' poll of the regular season. However, the following day they are ousted from the WAC tournament at the semifinal stage by host UNLV, 2-1.
Lutes Silenced, Eliminated
November 11, 2023
After scoring 73 goals during the regular season, Pacific Lutheran is unable to covert even one of 23 shots and goes out in the first round of the NCAA tournament at home, 0-0 (4-1) to Carleton (Minn.). Top scorer Craig Johnson clangs a drive off the crossbar in the 88th minute. Two penalty kick tiebreaker attempts are saved. It's the first time in 13 games that PLU has been held scoreless.
Perera Gets Second MVP Award
April 18, 2023
Tacoma Stars forward Nick Perera is named the MASL MVP for a second time after leading the league in points (70) and assists (37). Perera also claimed the award in 2019.
Curtain Falls on Rapinoe's International Career
September 24, 2023
Megan Rapinoe takes one final bow for the U.S. National Team. Rapinoe, 38, sets-up a goal in her 203rd and final international appearance, a 2-0 win over South Africa in Chicago. Her corner kick leads to OL Reign teammate Emily Sonnett's goal, and moments later Rapinoe misses scoring by inches on a free kick. She then comes off to a standing ovation from the 25,622 at Soldier Field. In 17 years, Rapinoe scored 63 goals and 73 assists and was part of champions at the 2012 Olympics and 2015 and 2019 World Cups.
Zags Advance in NCAA Tournament
November 11, 2023
Gonzaga parlays its first postseason home-field advantage into advancement in the NCAA tournament, defeating Idaho, 1-0, before a record crowd of 1,874 at Luger Field. It's the Bulldogs' first playoff win and only their second NCAA match. Marissa Garcia scores on a 19-yard free kick in the 16th minute. Lauren Towne makes two saves for the 19th-ranked Zags.
Skyline Boys Complete 4A Sweep
May 27, 2023
Two goals in the final eight minutes send Skyline to the boys' 4A championship, 2-0 over Puyallup at Spark Stadium. The Spartans, runners-up three times, including 2022, follow on the Skyline girls winning state six months earlier. A scoreless deadlock is broken open by Colin McKenna's long free kick that somehow finds its way through a crowd in the 72nd minute. Braden Ferreira clinches the title in 79'.
Feature Film Has Local Angle
November 17, 2023
Taika Waititi's feature film "Next Goal Wins" opens nationwide and depicts several members of Washington's soccer community and their roles with the American Samoa National Team in its longshot journey through 2014 World Cup qualifying. Dutch-American coach Thomas Rongen, played by Michael Fassbender, is the head coach and central character. Former Tacoma Community College coach Nicky Salapu was Rongen's goalkeeper, and Everett's Larry Mana'o served as the team's assistant coach. A documentary by the same name was released in 2014.
Sounders Rumored to be Buying Reign
November 8, 2023
Seattle Sounders FC ownership is reported to be in advanced negotiations to purchase OL Reign from OL Groupe. Representatives of both clubs decline to comment, but by the end of November, French publication L’Equipe reports that of 28 offers the Sounders ownership's bid was tentatively accepted. They will pay approximately $53 million. The bid remains under review after a presentation before France’s financial oversight board in Paris. OL Groupe purchased a majority stake in the Reign in 2019 for approximately $3.5 million.
Montero's Late, Late Goal Advances Sounders
April 26, 2023
Club legend Fredy Montero adds to his legacy and impressive goal total with an extra time, stoppage time penalty kick in the Sounders' 5-4 U.S. Open Cup win over the San Diego Loyal at Starfire Stadium. For the first time since 2017, Seattle advances in the tournament, to the round of 32. Montero, who also scored the game's opener, takes his club record scoring total to 78 in all competitions, including 10 in Open Cup play. Ethan Dobbelaere and Reed Baker-Whiting notch their first Sounders goals, and Paul Rothrock comes off the bench to score as well, helping offset Joe Corona's two goals and assist for the USL Loyal.
Reign Continue Strong Start, Win 100th
May 6, 2023
OL Reign is starting strong by finishing strong, scoring two second-half goals for the difference in a 2-0 home win over Houston. At 4-0-1 in NWSL play (5-1-2 all comps), the Reign are off to their best start since going 5-0-0 in 2014. It's the 100th NWSL victory since starting in 2013. Veronica Latsko nods in the go-ahead goal at 53' and earns an assist on Jordyn Huitema's 68' clincher. Seattle has outscored opponents 10-1 in the second half.
Bennett Extends Reign Challenge Cup run
June 28, 2023
Elysse Bennett's early second-half header is the winner for OL Reign at Portland, 1-0, extending its unbeaten streak in the NWSL Challenge Cup to 13 games. After a late first-half goal was nullified by offside, Bennett heads home Alyssa Malonson's cross in the 56th minute. Laurel Ivory makes two tough saves in stoppage time before 16,252 at Providence Park. Seattle finishes 4-0-2 in Challenge Cup play, but falls to Louisville, 1-0, in the semifinals Sept. 6.
Skyline Survives Shootout, Repeats
November 18, 2023
Sydney Siegel makes six saves in regulation and overtime, plus another two in the shootout, and Skyline repeats as girls' 4A champion over Woodinville, 1-1 (4-2) at Sparks Stadium. The Spartans, who defeated their Kingco foe twice during the regular season, repeat for a third time and are champions for a record seventh time in 4A. Ashley Roni gives Skyline a lead at 10', and Woodinville forces overtime on Kameron Winsatt's 69' equalizer.
Defiance Starts Fast, Advance
October 1, 2023
Braudilio Rodrigues and the Tacoma Defiance jump on top of Houston in the first 20 minutes and go on to beat the Dynamo 2 in the MLS NEXT Pro quarterfinals, 4-3, at Starfire Stadium. Blake Bowen puts Tacoma on top in the third minute, then assists Rodrigues's goals at 13' and 19'. Dylan Teves adds another for a 4-1 lead in the 53rd minute before the visitors make a late comeback attempt.
Olney Departs UPS After 29 Seasons
July 5, 2023
With a new season just around the corner, Puget Sound head coach Reece Olney retires after 29 years. A three-time Northwest Conference Coach of the Year, Olney and the Loggers posted an overall record of 325-168-63, winning NWC titles in 1999, 2002, 2006, and 2013. In 1999, UPS reached the third round of the NCAA Tournament while finishing the season ranked No. 6 in the nation. Sam Zisette, who both played and coached under Olney, is named interim head coach.
Puyallup Tribe is SEA2026 Legacy Supporter
June 20, 2023
Seattle’s local FIFA 2026 World Cup organizing committee announces that the Puyallup Tribe is their official legacy supporter. This marks the first time in the history of the international tournament that an indigenous people have entered into an agreement with any host city. The Puyallup Tribe of Indians will work with SeattleFWC26 multiple initiatives throughout the coming years. It will allow the tribe opportunities to share their story, in their own voice, on the global stage.
Falcons Complete GNAC Unbeaten
November 2, 2023
Jacqueline Blakeley tallies in the first half, and Taylor Krueger settles matters in the second period as Seattle Pacific beats Western Washington, 2-0, in Bellingham. The Falcons get a draw at Simon Fraser two days later to finish the GNAC slate undefeated (9-0-5). It's the 10th regular season title for SPU and second in three years.
Artesians Win Playoff Debut
July 21, 2023
In its postseason debut, Oly Town FC upsets Utah’s Park City Red Wolves in emphatic fashion, 4-0, at Interbay Stadium. The Artesians, who doubled their regular season win total to six, start on the front foot, getting first-half goals from Habib Famuditimi and Gil De La Luz. Park City had won the Mountain Division unbeaten (7-0-3) while allowing only seven goals. Cameron Miller and Cooper Brunell pad the margin for Oly in the second half.
Sounders Unveil New Crest, Colors
September 26, 2023
Approaching the 50th anniversary of the first NASL season, Sounders FC unveils a new crest and colors, effective in 2024. The Space Needle remains the centerpiece of the crest, but the banner stripped across that read 'Seattle Sounders FC' was removed. Instead, the city's iconic structure is flanked by the numbers '19' and '74' to highlight the original club's first season. The Rave Green is now accompanied by Heritage Aqua, paying homage to the inaugural color palette.
Johnson Scores, PLU Clinches
October 29, 2023
Craig Johnson tallies his 19th goal of the year as Pacific Lutheran rolls over Lewis & Clark, 5-0 at home, for the sixth Northwest Conference title in seven years. It's the fourth straight shutout for the Lutes, now winners of eight straight and unbeaten in 15 (12-0-3). Johnson has eight goals and 10 assists during the win streak.
Sounders, WA Legends Partner for Anniversary
October 5, 2023
Washington State Legends of Soccer becomes a museum partner to Sounders FC through the 2024 anniversary season. WA Legends will provide resources and expertise as the club marks the 50th anniversary of professional soccer arriving with the NASL club in 1974. In the past, WA Legends has collaborated with the Sounders on exhibits and celebrations, including the 50th anniversary celebration of Title IX’s enactment in 2022, Golden Scarf presentations as well as many of the organization’s community events and game day booths.
PLU Women Stage Early Upset
September 8, 2023
Twentieth-ranked Pacific Lutheran takes down No. 4 Virginia Wesleyan, 2-0, in just the third outing of the year, at Newport News, Va. The Lutes get an early second-half header from Alyssa Leong, and Kayden Hulquist doubles it seven minutes later. Abby Winkler makes eight saves in the shutout.
Perera Becomes Stars' Player/GM
September 25, 2023
Two-time MASL MVP Nick Perera adds the Tacoma Stars general manager title going into his seventh season with the club. Perera, who had served as coach from 2018-21, had been OL Reign's GM for 13 months before resigning in March 2023.
Upstart Roosevelt Takes Girls' 3A
November 18, 2023
Roosevelt defies the odds one last time as the 14th-seeded Roughriders beat Shorecrest, 4-1, to become the first Seattle public school to win the 3A girls state championship. Andrea Cummings scores a pair of goals in Roosevelt's sixth straight loser-out postseason win (18 goal differential) after seven regular season defeats. Cummings scores four tournament goals altogether, beginning in the 35th minute and another in the 45th. Brigid Bennett and Taylor Christensen tally in the second half.
Sounders Squander Lead vs. Timbers
September 2, 2023
Seemingly destined for their first regular season home win over the Timbers since 2017, the Sounders squander a 2-nil lead and settle for a 2-2 draw. Raul Ruidiaz opens the derby with his first goal in nearly three months (and 12th vs. Portland), then Léo Chú's solo effort doubles the lead on the half-hour. In the 53rd minute, Chú is issued a second yellow card, and shortly thereafter Dairon Asprilla comes off the bench to spark the Portland rally. Asprilla and Evander score three minutes apart to square the score. It is Seattle's second blown two-goal lead in five weeks and it's 1-4-3 in all competitions since July 12.
Sounders' Bruce Lee Kit Released
February 15, 2023
The Sounders release their second Community Kit, which is a tribute to legendary martial artist and actor Bruce Lee, who attended high school and college in Seattle. August 2023 will mark the 50th anniversary of Lee's final film, 'Enter the Dragon,' and the ruby-red jersey features a hand-drawn dragon. the kit makes its debut March 18.
Free Clinic, Showcase Held Near Yakima
July 28, 2023
Community First Soccer and ELLA Sports Foundation conduct a free soccer camp for kids ages 4-18 at the SOZO Sports Complex outside Yakima. The camp also features a college showcase for high-school aged players to demonstrate their skills to local college coaches. ELLA is focused on empowering Latina athletes to pursue their goals. CFS co-founders Sebastian Navarro and Iovani Rodriguez want to show kids from Yakima Valley they can follow their dreams and accomplish their goals without leaving home before high school graduation.
Spokane Men Become Velocity
July 21, 2023
Spokane's expansion USL League One team announces it will be known as the Velocity FC. At an unveiling at Brick West Brewing, managing partner Ryan Harnetiaux displays the crest featuring four descending water blades representative of the waterfalls in and around downtown Spokane and Riverfront Park. The colors are white, blue and black. Nearly 3,800 season ticket deposits have been received for the 2024 season at One Spokane Stadium.
Rusnak Goal Sends Sounders Forward
November 10, 2023
Albert Rusnak's emergence as much-needed clutch scorer is evident again as the Slovakian midfielder scores the series-deciding goal in Seattle's 1-0 win over Dallas at Lumen Field. Joao Paulo provides Rusnak with timely service in the box, and he scores from 12 yards in the 36th minute of Game 3. Rusnak has scored six of his eight goals since June, including three in the last four matches. He also scored in the Game 1 win Oct. 27.
Women's Documentary Makes U.S. Premiere
October 10, 2023
Seattle International Film Festival Doc Fest features the U.S. premiere of Copa '71 at the SIFF Cinema Uptown. Produced by Serena and Venus Williams, the feature documentary details the first women's tournament of national selections, in 1971 in Mexico. It weaves together archival footage with new interviews to tell the story of a moment virtually erased from history.
Morris, Roldan Factor in Gold Cup Semifinal
July 12, 2023
Sounders Jordan Morris and Cristian Roldan come off the bench for the U.S. National Team in its Concacaf Gold Cup semifinal in San Diego. Morris heads a long ball down for Jesus Ferreira to volley for the extra-time equalizer versus Panama. Morris converts his penalty in the resulting shootout, but Roldan's sixth-round attempt is saved, and Panama advances, 1-1 (5-4).
Moon Given Whitworth's Reins
May 24, 2023
Kevin Moon, an experienced youth coach and academy director in Spokane, is named interim head coach for the Whitworth men. Moon, who also had served as an assistant under three Pirates coaches, replaces Jeremy Payne. After going 19-24-6 in three seasons, Payne resigned May 15. Whitworth goes 12-4-4 under Moon, who has the interim tag removed Dec. 7.
Reign's Tullis-Joyce Transfers to Man United
September 14, 2023
In OL Reign's highest profile transfer to date, goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce, 26, is transferred to Manchester United for a reported $160,000. Tullis-Joyce has been the starter since arriving from France's Reims before the 2022 season. She finished with 47 appearances and 15 clean sheets across all competitions, including a Reign record 13 in regular season play.
Redhawks Secure WAC No. 1 Seed
October 29, 2023
Second-half goals by Kotaro Hirowaka and Leonard Fock allow No. 15 Seattle University to rally and beat UNLV, 2-1, on the road to finish the WAC campaign unbeaten. In their first season under Nate Daligcon, the Redhawks go 7-0-1 in the WAC and 8-0-2 to finish the regular season.
Sounders Armband Passes From Lodeiro
July 30, 2023
Nicolas Lodeiro yields the Sounders captaincy following more than four seasons of wearing the armband. It comes after a meeting with coach Brian Schmetzer prior to the Leagues Cup match with Monterrey. Stefan Frei is installed as the new captain, although Joao Paulo serves in his absence vs. Monterrey. Lodeiro had succeeded Osvaldo Alonso as captain following the 2018 season.
Ballard Caps Year two with Championship
August 5, 2023
Ballard FC caps a storybook second season with a record attendance, dramatic winner and a USL League Two championship at Starfire Stadium. The Salmon-clad Seattle side defeats Virginia's Lionsbridge, 2-1, before a capacity crowd of 3,416 to finish 15-1-1 across all competitions. scoring sensation Stas Korzeniowski strips a defender and rips his shot into the right corner in the 24th minute. Although the visitors see a 33' red card, they battle back to equalize at 80'. Soon after, Korzeniowski gets a second yellow, making it 10v10. But in the third minute of stoppage time, Peter Kingston whips in a 35-yard free kick that is deflected but still finds the net, setting off pandemonium.
One Spokane Stadium Opens
September 28, 2023
Completed in under two years, One Spokane Stadium opens with a high school girls ' game as the first athletic event. Shadle Park defeats Pullman in an afternoon match that is settled in a tiebreaker. The Highlanders' Peyton Boston scores the venue's first goal in the 19th minute, and they go on to win their first game of the year in a shootout following a 1-1 tie.
Oly Town Gets First Rivalry Win
June 23, 2023
Ten-man Oly Town FC earns its first victory against Puget Sound rival Ballard FC, 3-2, at Interbay Stadium. The Artesians not only accomplish their first win of the series in six tries, but they do also it on the road and after playing the final 46 minutes shorthanded. Richy Lapointe-Guevara (1') and Gil De La Luz (27') give the visitors a 2-nil lead. Ballard bounces back to equalize, but in stoppage time Oly’s Chris Peretti charges upfield and finds Dante Perez for the winner.
Perfect Zags Wallop Weber State
August 24, 2023
For the first time in Gonzaga annals, the Zags are perfect through three games to start a season. The Bulldogs wallop Weber State, 9-2 – the most goals scored on a Division I opponent. Giana Riley, Marissa Garcia and Shelby Runje all get braces at Luger Field. GU scored 19 times in going 3-0-0.
PLU Extends Run to 16 Unbeaten
November 1, 2023
Pacific Lutheran heads toward the NCAA tournament with a head of steam after completing a sweep of Puget Sound, 3-1 at home. The Lutes win their ninth in a row and are unbeaten in 16 (13-0-3) with one regular season game remaining. They get two first-half goals from Trevor Thompson.
Fewing Era Ends, Daligcon Elevated
April 4, 2023
Peter Fewing calls time on his coaching days with Seattle University, transitioning to associate athletic director after 29 total seasons. Nate Daligcon, who had been associate head coach and at SU since 2013, takes over. Fewing's teams won the 1997 NAIA national championship and 2004 NCAA Division II championship. He earned national coach of the year honors each title season. In two stints covering four levels of affiliation, Fewing was 343-197-50. The Redhawks advanced as far as the Div. I third round in 2015.
Seattle Blanks St. Louis to Reach First
April 8, 2023
St. Louis City, the surprising, first-year frontrunner, is taken down a notch by the rising Sounders, 3-0, with all the scoring coming in the final 25 minutes. Local, 21-year-old lad Josh Atencio's 25-yard cannon shot in the 65th minute opens the way to Seattle's third win in a row. The Sounders (5-1-1) also get a Raul Ruidiaz strike and an own goal to overtake St. Louis for first in the Western Conference. Stefan Frei gets the shutout in his club-record 232nd start.
Lutes Get Seventh Straight NWC Title
October 29, 2023
The Northwest Conference women's crown stays with Pacific Lutheran for the seventh year in a row following a 2-0 home win over Lewis & Clark. It's the Lutes' fourth consecutive shutout victory. Hannah Cecil scores at 13', and Lyla Merte adds insurance early in the second half.
Lavelle Gets Brace Down Under
January 21, 2023
Rose Lavelle of OL Reign scores twice in the 5-0 U.S. win over host New Zealand during a pre-World Cup friendly in Auckland. Seattle teammate Sofia Huerta finds Lavelle with a long crossing ball for the second USWNT goal. Lavelle later adds the game's fourth goal and assists on the fifth.
Crossfire Boys Win ECNL U15 Title
July 17, 2023
Crossfire Premier comes from behind to win the Elite Club National League boys U15 championship in Henrico, Virginia. Just before halftime, Zachariah Hume ties it with California's Slammers FC at 1-1. Justin Chen scores to grab the lead at 60', and Bruno Perversi cinches the victory, 3-1, at 80'.
Benz Succeeds Watkins at Gonzaga
December 15, 2023
Gonzaga promotes Katie Benz to head coach in the wake of Chris Watkins leaving for Boston College. A day after Watkins departs, his top assistant succeeds him. Watkins had been 79-33-17 in seven seasons. Benz came from Montana in 2021, where she was an assistant on two Big Sky champions.
Being on the U.S. team while having Huerta so visible on the back of my jersey is something so important to me because I feel in some ways like I get to represent both places that I'm passionate about.
— Reign defender Sofia Huerta, of Mexican heritage, on becoming the second Latina player to represent the United States in a World Cup
Coming from a generation that benefitted from Title IX, to seeing it now. We could not be more proud of the current US women's national team, and the things that they have accomplished. And I can't imagine what it will be like five to ten years from now. It's a blessing for us to have been there in the beginning, and see how it grows.
— Lori Henry, reflecting on the first USWNT to play, in 1985, at a reunion 38 years later in Asheville, N.C.
It's been a dream of our club and ownership to be able to bring in Messi. To have it all fall into place this summer has been fantastic. It's been a long road for our club and required a lot of maneuvering to get into this position. But it's been great. Messi is the best player on the planet, and for him to come to our club and be a part of MLS is great for the sport. Instantly, overnight we've become a global club.
— Everett's Chris Henderson, chief soccer officer for Inter Miami, on signing Lionel Messi, the best player on the planet
It has been really wonderful, to hear all the nice things, to have a closure moment, to play in front of a big crowd again. I'll miss it forever. I don't think I'll ever be at a moment where it will feel perfect but this is pretty close.
— Megan Rapinoe addressing the Chicago fans following her final match for the USWNT
We’ve hustled hard to be where we are and build it into what it is. I had a great example — I just looked at what Cliff (McCrath, Seattle Pacific coach) did, his national championships, and said, ‘That’s how you’ve got to do it.’
— Peter Fewing reflecting on his 29 seasons at Seattle University
This is like a sick joke. For me personally, this is dark comedy, that I missed a penalty...I'm going to miss a penalty? I mean, honestly, I can't remember the last time I missed.
— Megan Rapinoe after a penalty miss in the United States' World Cup tiebreaker loss to Sweden
I thought we were good. I thought we were evenly matched. A couple of chances. But the deflection on the goal, it’s unfortunate.
— Brian Schmetzer summing up the Sounders' Club World Cup performance vs. Ah Ahly
You don’t always get to have the perfect ending. I’ve had so many perfect endings. You go back to 2019 (World Cup win). That was the whole perfect script. On balance, I don’t think anything negative about it.
— Reign legend Megan Rapinoe after a torn Achilles in the NWSL final ends her career
There were such big steps at the beginning to really make sure that this league didn’t fail. And it was a real slow burner on that front, and you look back now and you’re like, ‘Oh my God, I cannot believe that this is where we were.’ But we’re where we are now because we started so cautiously and so carefully because of the history of all the other leagues that have been here.
— Reign star Jess Fishlock on the NWSL reaching its 10th anniversary in 2023
It was a dream achieved to bring the Sounders to Major League Soccer in 2009, but, like many of our fans, my love for the club started long before its MLS era. As Sounders, our past runs deep and proud and that's why we're especially pleased to introduce this new visual identity, which isn't so much a change as it is an evolution that more faithfully encompasses the entirety of the club.
— Sounders majority owner Adrian Hanauer explaining the updated crest ahead of the 50th anniversary season
She comes with this light energy. She is the best example of someone who [shows] you can love this game. You can have fun. You can just enjoy it...She is a huge advocate for basically just inclusivity and accessibility and that's really unique. She doesn't shy away. And I think kids and young athletes really gravitate to professional athletes that are willing to put their name on the line.
— Stephanie Verdoia, attorney and OL Reign Academy coach, on Megan Rapinoe's qualities
It’s really hard to put in perspective how big of an achievement that is for her. To have done it for the same club, in a league that’s set up for that not to happen, is phenomenal.
— Reign coach Laura Harvey praising Lauren Barnes for becoming the first NWSL player to reach 200 regular season appearances
The way that the city showed up to express that gratitude or love towards me is really special. It’s really overwhelming. I know that I’m a well-liked figure and an important person in this game. I’m not trying to minimize that, or trying to play too humble. I do know my impact, but it’s one thing to know it, and then to really feel it and see it, see some of the signs and see pink wigs and just see what it means to people.
— Megan Rapinoe, addressing 34,130 Reign fans after her final home regular season match
For us to bounce back after not making the playoffs last year and now coming back and ending up in second position against LAFC, against LA Galaxy, against other teams that spend more money, against St. Louis, who had a tremendous year, against Vancouver, who’s a much improved team...this is hard. The players did it on their own.
— Sounders coach Brian Schmetzer lauding his players for overcoming injuries and struggles to reach the 2023 playoffs
She's a figure that's fighting for so much progress in women's soccer. She's retiring and it's going to outlive her career.
— Eleanor Morrissey, 18, of Reign Academy and Lakeside HS on Megan Rapinoe’s legacy
I want to say I tried to do my best every game, every minute that I played in front of you...I feel peace. Internal peace in my heart. We did a good job. We did it like a family, like a team. We did a great job.
— Nicolas Lodeiro, addressing Sounders fans upon his departure after more than seven seasons starring for the club
They’ve made a big impact not only in soccer, but also within the student body. We have a lot of love and embrace for them knowing what’s going on in their country.
— Fort Vancouver High School captain Zepeda Rincon on two Ukrainian refugees joining the team during Russia's invasion
Social media can be dangerous. It allows people to [speak] freely without any recourse, any real conversation...This is a good team. We started off the year well. There’s various team, personnel, financial, everything why we didn’t make changes. Sure, if it doesn’t work, then people can say what they want. If it does work, I hope they jump back on.
— Sounders coach Brian Schmetzer after facing fans' online displeasure following the ninth loss in 17 matches and a quick exit from the Leagues Cup
We were playing for a lot today. There have been a lot of people who have put on a Gonzaga uniform over the years that haven't got to have this moment. We're really excited and really proud.
— Gonzaga coach Chris Watkins after the Bulldogs beat Pepperdine to clinch their first WCC women's title
These chances don’t come around that often. Being here is a huge honor and we’re proud of how we represented the league, being the first team to be here, that’s something that we’ll always be incredibly proud of.
— Sounders' Jordan Morris on the Club World Cup experience
College & High School All-America* (USC)
Player (Hometown) |
School (Div/Tm/Pos) |
Bea Franklin (Seattle) |
Arkansas (D1/2/M) |
Kelsey Oyler (Meridian, Id.) |
Gonzaga (D1/2/D) |
Sophie Beadle (Rainier, Wa.) |
Seattle Pacific (D2/2/F) |
Morgan Manalili (Shoreline) |
Western Washington (D2/3/F) |
Jaquelin Nordhoff (Seattle) |
Williams (D3/3/M) |
Sydney Shenk (Covington, Wa.) |
Aquinas (NAIA/1/F) |
Eric Howard (Redmond, Wa.) |
Crossfire (Youth) |
Emelia Warta (Vancouver, Wa.) |
Portland Thorns Acad. (Youth) |
Collegiate Men's Records
Evergreen |
6-8-4 |
Gonzaga |
3-9-6 |
Northwest |
7-7-3 |
Pacific Lutheran |
14-2-5 |
Puget Sound |
8-5-5 |
Saint Martin's |
4-8-4 |
Seattle University |
12-4-3 |
Seattle Pacific |
5-9-4 |
Walla Walla |
0-14-0 |
Washington |
5-6-7 |
Western Washington |
6-6-6 |
Whitman |
8-7-5 |
Whitworth |
12-4-4 |
Collegiate Women's Records
Central Washington |
3-12-4 |
Eastern Washington |
2-14-1 |
Evergreen |
2-11-2 |
Gonzaga |
14-4-2 |
Northwest |
11-7-3 |
Pacific Lutheran |
15-5-1 |
Puget Sound |
13-5-2 |
Saint Martin's |
3-8-7 |
Seattle University |
10-9-2 |
Seattle Pacific |
13-4-5 |
Washington |
9-5-5 |
Washington State |
9-6-4 |
Western Washington |
12-5-4 |
Whitman |
10-5-5 |
Whitworth |
9-6-5 |
Professional All-League
Player (Pos) |
Team (Lg-Tm) |
Lesia Thetsane (D) |
Ballard FC (USL2) |
Obdoulaye Cissoko (D) |
Tacoma Defiance (MLS Next Pro) |
Nick Perera (F) |
Tacoma Stars (MASL-1st Team) |
State Youth Founders Cup Winners
Age |
Boys | Girls |
U10 |
Crossfire Select 13 Black | Crossfire Select 13 Black Caufield |
U11 |
Crossfire Select 12 Black | NSC 12 Green |
U12 |
Mercer Island FC 11 XL | Crossfire Select 11 Black |
U13 |
Mercer Island FC 10 XL | Crossfire Select 10 Black |
U14 |
Mercer Island FC 09 XL | Crossfire Select 09 Black |
U15 |
Highline SA Falcons 08 |
U16 |
NSC 07 Green |
U17 |
Lake Hills Select Hurricanes 06 Cyr |
U19 |
Highline SA Select 04-05 Lara |
State Youth Presidents Cup Winners
Age |
Boys | Girls |
U9 |
Seattle United 14 Copa A | Crossfire 14 RCL 1 |
U10 |
Crossfire 13 RCL 1 | Eastside 13 Red A |
U11 |
Crossfire 12 RCL 1 | Crossfire RCL 1 |
U12 |
Eastside 11 White B | Washington Prem 11 White |
U13 |
MIFC 10 XL | Harbor Premier 10 Green |
U14 |
Kitsap Alliance 09 Blue | PacNW 09 Maroon A |
U15 |
Crossfire 08 ECRL | Crossfire 08 RCL |
U16 |
Three Rivers 07 Black | Black Hills 07 Black A |
U17 |
Harbor Premier 06 Green | Kitsap Alliance 06 Blue |
U19 |
Everett FC 04-05 | Highline SA Select 04/05 Foulk |
State Youth Recreational Cup Winners
Age |
Boys | Girls |
U9 |
Olympia United Hackney Green Vipers | Southlake White |
U10 |
Chinqually Bo Elite FC | Southlake Lightning Mendez |
U11 |
Olympia Unite Richter Wolf Pack | UPSC Blue Dragons |
U12 |
LSDSC VFB Force | Valor Rec MV Childs Viscious Vipers |
U13 |
Valor Rec MV11 Ready-Thunder | Chinqually Bo Black Panthers |
U14 |
NM 01 Huskies | HYSC Green Gems |
U15 |
PSCN 09 Vernon | VUSA 09 Ghost Girls |
U16 |
RSA Union 08 | Olympia Unite Crump Purple Hawks |
U17 |
Tracyton 07 Bulldogs | United 07 Cheetahs |
U19 |
LS Schwenke 06 Lake Lightning | SYSA WD 05 Swarmettes |
Washington State Youth Champions
Age |
Boys | Girls |
U12 |
Washington Premier 11 Black A | Eastside 11 Red A |
U13 |
Northwest United 10 Black | Washington Premier 10 Black |
U14 |
Three Rivers 09 Black | Whatcom Rangers 09 Gold |
U15 |
Northwest United 08 Black | Crossfire 08 ECRL |
U16 |
Valor 07 Premier Gold | Seattle United 07 Copa A |
U17 |
Three Rivers 06 Black | Eastside 06 Red A |
U19 |
Northwest United 04-05 Black | Three Rivers 04-05 Black |
WIAA Championship Games
Boys 4A |
Skyline 2 | Puyallup 0 |
Boys 3A |
Lincoln (Sea) 1 | Ballard 0 |
Boys 2A |
Columbia River 4 | North Kitsap 2 |
Boys 1A |
Seattle Academy 1 | Overlake 0 |
Boys 1B-2B |
Up. Columbia 2 | Orcas Is. 0 |
Girls 4A |
Skyline 1 (4-2) | Woodinville 1 |
Girls 3A |
Roosevelt 4 | Shorecrest 1 |
Girls 2A |
Ridgefield 2 (2-1) | West Valley 2 |
Girls 1A |
Seattle Academy 2 | Klahowya 1 |
Girls 1B-2B |
Crosspoint 2 | Kalama 1 |
VIDEO: Seattle Reign Semifinal match vs San Diego
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