Seattle Sounders FC - Latest News

Best rendition of Bluest Skys?

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:57:00 -0800

While the club's rendition of bluest skys is pretty impressive. This is up there as one of our favorite renditions of Bluest Skys:

If you think you have a better rendition send us the link or upload it here on SoundersFC.com.

Sunday's match to be aired throughout the Northwest

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 11:41:00 -0800

Residents of the Seattle/Tacoma area can watch Sunday's match on KING5 at 12:00pm PT, preceeded by the PEMCO Pregame Show on KING5 beginning at 11:30am PT. Residents outside of the Seattle/Tacoma area can catch the game on FSN Northwest beginning at 12:00pm PT.

FSN Northwest covers a five state region: Alaska, Washington, Montana, Idaho and Oregon. Key DMA’s covered by FSN include Seattle, Portland, Spokane, Yakima/Tri-Cities, Eugene, Medford/Klamath Falls, Bend, Boise, Anchorage, Juneau, Fairbanks, Missoula, Billings, Helena Butte/Bozeman, Great Falls, Idaho Falls, Twin Falls and Eureka.

Supporters outside the Northwest who subscribe to a premium cable/satellite sports package that includes FSN NW may also view the match live.

FSN NW will also provide match replays throughout its entire coverage area on the following dates and times:

Sunday, November 8 at 12:00pm PT and 7:00pm PT
Monday, November 9 at 11:00pm PT
Tuesday, November 10 at 12:00pm PT

Spanish speaking supporters may watch the match nationally on TeleFutura.

Hurtado misses out on award

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:08:00 -0800

Jhon Kennedy Hurtado was beaten out for MLS Defender of the Year by Columbus Crew defender Chad Marshall. Here is the press release announcing Marshall's award and the officials awards.

NEW YORK (Thursday, Nov 5, 2009) – Major League Soccer announced today that Columbus Crew defender Chad Marshall was voted the Visa^® Defender of the Year for the second consecutive season, and referees Alex Prus and Greg Barkey were voted as the adidas Referee of the Year and adidas Assistant Referee of the Year.

Marshall, the 2008 Defender of the Year and 2009 MLS All-Star, anchored a Columbus defense that allowed only 31 goals during the regular season – a record low for the Crew. Marshall played in and started 18 games during the regular season; he missed four games while serving National Team duty with the U.S. and another six games with a knee sprain at the end of the season.

Marshall’s leadership helped the Crew capture their second straight Supporters’ Shield trophy, awarded to the team that finishes with the best regular season record (13-7-10, 49 points). The Crew’s defense allowed the third fewest goals (31) behind the Houston Dynamo (29) and Seattle Sounders FC (29).

Marshall won MLS Player of the Month honors for August after leading the Crew to a 4-1-0 record during the month, which included four shutouts. The 6-foot, 4-inch, 190-pound defender proved again that he’s not only an imposing force on defense, but also poses a scoring threat whenever he gets forward. Marshall finished third on the team with four goals scored, including game-winning goals versus New York (June 27), Colorado (Aug. 1) and FC Dallas (Aug. 15).

Now in his sixth MLS season, the 25-year-old Riverside, Calif., native was the second overall pick in the 2004 MLS SuperDraft by the Columbus Crew. Marshall joins Carlos Bocanegra and Robin Fraser as the only two-time Defender of the Year award winners. Marshall led the voting ahead of Seattle Sounders FC defender Jhon Kennedy Hurtado and Houston Dynamo defender Geoff Cameron, the other finalists for the award.

Prus receives the adidas Referee of the Year award for the first time in his career. A veteran center referee of MLS games, Prus has worked 169 games in 13 seasons. Prus first served as an assistant referee in MLS in 1997. He has worked five Men’s Division I NCAA Final Four soccer tournaments and was the head referee for MLS Cup 2007 in Washington, D.C.

Barkey has been honored with the adidas Assistant Referee of the Year award. Barkey was one of three assistant referees to represent the United States in the 2006 FIFA World Cup. In 14 seasons with Major League Soccer, Barkey has worked 201 regular season games and 28 playoff games.

The Visa Defender of the Year earned the most votes in polling of MLS players, general managers, coaches, and members of the media. The adidas Referee of the Year and adidas Assistant Referee of the Year were earned the most votes in polling of MLS players, general managers, coaches, referees and members of the media.

MLS Defender of the Year Winners:

2009: Chad Marshall – Columbus Crew
2008: Chad Marshall – Columbus Crew
2007: Michael Parkhurst – New England Revolution
2006: Bobby Boswell – D.C. United
2005: Jimmy Conrad – Kansas City Wizards
2004: Robin Fraser – Columbus Crew
2003: Carlos Bocanegra – Chicago Fire
2002: Carlos Bocanegra – Chicago Fire
2001: Jeff Agoos – San Jose Earthquakes
2000: Peter Vermes – Kansas City Wizards
1999: Robin Fraser – Los Angeles Galaxy
1998: Lubos Kubik – Chicago Fire
1997: Eddie Pope – D.C. United
1996: John Doyle – San Jose Earthquakes

adidas Referee of the Year Winners:

2009: Alex Prus
2008: Jair Marrufo
2007: Brian Hall
2006: Brian Hall
2005: Brian Hall
2004: Abiodun ‘Abbey’ Okulaja
2003: Brian Hall
2002: Kevin Terry
2001: Paul Tamberino
2000: Paul Tamberino
1999: Paul Tamberino
1998: Paul Tamberino
1997: Esse Baharmast

adidas Assistant Referee of the Year Winners:

2009: Greg Barkey
2008: Kermit Quisenberry

Supporting the Sounders from miles away

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:33:00 -0800

Everywhere the Sounders FC go, hordes of fans adorned in rave green jerseys are sure to follow. This weekend is no different, upwards of 100 tickets have been sold to Sounders fans for the second leg of the Western Conference semifinal meeting with the Houston Dynamo at Houston’s Robertson Stadium.

And it won’t be the first massive show of support while the club is away from the friendly confines of Qwest Field. Whether it be the massive March to the Match in San Jose or the outstanding Seattle crowd in the upper bowl of RFK Stadium for the US Open Cup Final, the Sounders Supporters have been a prominent presence.

But fans who can’t make it down to Houston don’t have to stay home to watch the game on KING television. MANY Sounders fan groups are planning viewing parties all across the state to support the team from afar.

In Seattle, Gorilla FC will, as always, be at Fado on First Avenue, while much of the Emerald City Supporters will make camp at The Atlantic Crossing on Roosevelt Way.

Among the sites of planned support are:

Fado Irish Pub and Restaurant
801 1st Ave
Seattle, WA

The Atlantic Crossing
6508 Roosevelt Way NE
Seattle, WA 98115-6627
(206) 729-6266
(21+ only)

The College Inn Pub
4000 University Way NE
Seattle, WA 98105-6298
(206) 634-2307
21+

Schultzy’s
4114 University Way NE
Seattle, WA 98105
(206) 548-9461
All-ages friendly!

*An Addition for our South-Sounders*
Doyle's Public House
208 St. Helens Ave
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253)272-7468

O’Blarney’s Irish Pub
4411 Martin Way E.
Lacey WA 98516

Waddell’s Pub
All-Ages
4318 S Regal
Spokane, WA

Any more to add to the list, e-mail me at mattg@soundersfc.com or just comment below.

For those of you heading to Houston there will be more information regarding tailgating and viewing parties in Houston soon. Check back here as we will update this post as that information becomes available.

Our first site in Houston has been confirmed, as the ECS will host a party at the Ginger Man Pub Saturday night at 8. For more information, check www.weareecs.com.

Scarves Up!

Zach Thornton and Steve Ralston win awards

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 09:34:00 -0800

Kasey Keller was a finalist for two awards that were announced by Major League Soccer Wednesday. Here is the release from the league offices.

NEW YORK – Major League Soccer announced today that Chivas USA goalkeeper Zach Thornton was voted the 2009 Goalkeeper of the Year. New England Revolution midfielder Steve Ralston was named the winner of the individual MLS Fair Play award, and the Chicago Fire earned the MLS Team Fair Play award as the MLS club with the fewest disciplinary points during the 2009 regular season.

The Goalkeeper of the Year and the Individual Fair Play award winners earned the most votes in polling of MLS players, general managers, coaches, referees and members of the media.

Thornton, 36, had arguably his best season in his 13-year MLS career. He led Chivas USA to a 13-11-6 record and posted a career best 12 shutouts and 0.87 goals against average. His 12 shutouts were one shy of the club record and his goals against average ranks second all-time behind Pat Onstad’s 0.82 in 2007. Thornton led the League in goals against average, shutouts and ranked second in wins with 12.

Thornton took over the starting role for Preki’s club this season, after being acquired in 2008 and playing in eight regular season games last season. The 2009 season was his first full season as a starter since 2006, when he was a member of the Chicago Fire. He started 27 of the team’s 30 games during the regular season and led Chivas to the playoffs for the fourth consecutive season.

This marks the second Goalkeeper of the Year honor for Thornton. He joins Onstad and Joe Cannon as the only players to win the MLS Goalkeeper of the Year award twice. He received the honor in 1998, after being selected by the Chicago Fire in the expansion draft, Thornton led the first-year club to an MLS Cup championship. He finished the 1998 season with 16 wins and a 1.17 goals against average.

Thornton ranks second all-time in shutouts (70) and wins (125), behind only Kevin Hartman in both categories. He played collegiately at Loyola College in Maryland and was drafted by the MetroStars in the 7^th round of the 1996 MLS Inaugural Player Draft. He played two seasons with the club as a reserve behind Tony Meola before spending the bulk of nine seasons with the Fire. In 2004 he spent six months on loan with Benfica in Portugal. Thornton played with the Colorado Rapids in 2007 and New York Red Bulls in 2008. During the 2008 season, he was traded to Chivas USA, where he played seven games before earning the starting role to begin the 2009 campaign.

Thornton led the voting ahead of Seattle Sounders FC goalkeeper Kasey Keller and Los Angeles Galaxy goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts, the other finalists named earlier this week.

Ralston is claiming his third MLS Fair Play Award. The 35 year-old, MLS Original and New England Revolution midfielder from St. Louis, Mo., becomes the first three-time recipient of the award. Michael Parkhurst, Ralston’s former Revolution teammate, won the award in 2007 and 2008.

Ralston started 17 games for the Revolution this year and recorded seven goals and seven assists. In 1,543 minutes of play, Ralston committed only four fouls and received two cautions. The all-time leader in games played (378) and assists (135) Ralston helped the Revolution to an 11-10-9 record and the club’s eighth consecutive playoff appearance. Before joining the Revolution, Ralston spent six seasons with the Tampa Bay Mutiny, earning the Rookie of the Year award in 1996.

The Chicago Fire claimed the Team Fair Play award for accumulating the fewest disciplinary points (259.5) of any team during the 2009 regular season. Disciplinary points are assigned as follow: 4 points for each caution received, 10 points for each red card, 0.50 points for each foul committed and a reduction of 15 points for each game that a team completes without receiving any cards or action from the MLS Disciplinary Committee.

MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Winners:

2009: Zach Thornton – Chivas USA
2008: Jon Busch – Chicago Fire
2007: Brad Guzan – Chivas USA
2006: Troy Perkins – D.C. United
2005: Pat Onstad – San Jose Earthquakes
2004: Joe Cannon – Colorado Rapids
2003: Pat Onstad – San Jose Earthquakes
2002: Joe Cannon – San Jose Earthquakes
2001: Tim Howard – MetroStars
2000: Tony Meola – Kansas City Wizards
1999: Kevin Hartman – Los Angeles Galaxy
1998: Zach Thornton – Chicago Fire
1997: Brad Friedel – Columbus Crew
1996: Mark Dodd – Dallas Burn

MLS Fair Play Award - Individual Winners:

2009: Steve Ralston – New England Revolution
2008: Michael Parkhurst – New England Revolution
2007: Michael Parkhurst – New England Revolution
2006: Chris Klein – Real Salt Lake
2005: Ronald Cerritos – San Jose Earthquakes
2004: Eddie Pope - MetroStars
2003: Brian McBride – Columbus Crew
2002: Mark Chung – Colorado Rapids
2001: Alex Pineda Chacon – Miami Fusion
2000: Steve Ralston – Tampa Bay Mutiny
1999: Steve Ralston – Tampa Bay Mutiny
1998: Thomas Dooley – Columbus Crew
1997: Mark Chung – Kansas City Wizards

MLS Fair Play Award -Team Winners:

2009: Chicago Fire
2008: New England Revolution
2007: Columbus Crew
2006: Kansas City Wizards
2005: Kansas City Wizards
2004: Columbus Crew
2003: New England Revolution
2002: Kansas City Wizards
2001: San Jose Earthquakes
2000: Tampa Bay Mutiny
1999: Columbus Crew
1998: Kansas City Wizards
1997: Columbus Crew

Budding rivals

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Having already played four times in their inaugural season, Seattle has become fast foes with Houston.

Goal and Save of the Year

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:50:00 -0800

Check out the nominees and make your picks for Goal of the Year and Save of the Year at mlsnet.com.

I've made my picks, what are your choices?

Playoffs at a glance

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 15:57:00 -0800

The first leg of the Conference Semifinals are all in the books now and there were certainly some interesting games.

Here are each of the early returns with a comment from Sigi Schmid on each.

EASTERN CONFERENCE SEMIFINALS
@ Real Salt Lake 1, Columbus Crew 0
Schmid - "Obviously the Columbus-Real Salt Lake with Real scoring the late goal and Columbus with their lineup changes was a little bit interesting."

@ New England Revolution 2, Chicago Fire 1
Schmid - "I thought New England just battled. Shalrie Joseph wanted that second goal a lot more and he ended up putting it away."

WESTERN CONFERENCE SEMIFINALS
@ Chivas USA 2, LA Galaxy 2
Schmid - "The LA-Chivas game was a little bit of space and error. There was a lot of space on that field and errors I think led to some goals. But exciting soccer in that regard because there were goals and there were mistakes and everybody gets excited. Coaches aren’t happy about that but players and fans are OK with it because they are scoring goals. It is what it is. It’s tight and you can see that."

If Seattle advances, they will face the LA-Chivas winner next week. Keep an eye on their return leg Sunday at 4.

Award Season

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 15:27:00 -0800

Major League Soccer will begin announcing their award winners on Wednesday and one thing is for certain - at least one Sounder will win an award. The league announced the three finalists for each award Monday and Seattle is assured of having the Newcomer of the Year award winner, as the three finalists are Fredy Montero, Freddie Ljungberg and Kasey Keller. With five Sounders up for five different awards, the Sounders name could be called frequently in the coming weeks.

THE FINALISTS

GOALKEEPER OF THE YEAR (Announced Wednesday, Nov. 4)
Kasey Keller, Seattle Sounders FC
Donovan Ricketts, LA Galaxy
Zach Thornton, Chivas USA

FAIR PLAY (Announced Wednesday, Nov. 4)
Kasey Keller, Seattle Sounders FC
Pat Onstad, Houston Dynamo
Steve Ralston, New England Revolution

COMEBACK PLAYER OF THE YEAR (Announced Tuesday, Nov. 10)
Brian McBride, Chicago Fire
Ben Olsen, DC United
Zach Thornton, Chivas USA

VISA DEFENDER OF THE YEAR (Announced Thursday, Nov. 5)
Jhon Kennedy Hurtado, Seattle Sounders FC
Geoff Cameron, Houston Dynamo
Chad Marshall, Columbus Crew

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR (Announced Thursday, Nov. 12)
Chris Pontius, DC United
Omar Gonzalez, LA Galaxy
Stefan Frei, Toronto FC

COACH OF THE YEAR (Announced Wednesday, Nov. 11)
Sigi Schmid, Seattle Sounders FC
Bruce Arena, LA Galaxy
Robert Warzycha, Columbus Crew

NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR (Announced Tuesday, Nov. 10)
Kasey Keller, Seattle Sounders FC
Freddie Ljungberg, Seattle Sounders FC
Fredy Montero, Seattle Sounders FC

VOLKSWAGEN MLS MVP (Announced Thursday, Nov. 20)
Jeff Cunningham, FC Dallas
Landon Donovan, LA Galaxy
Shalrie Joseph, New England Revolution

Other award dates include; the team Fair Play award (Nov. 4), MLS WORKS-USSF Humanitarian of the year (Nov. 6), MLS Best XI (Nov. 16), Goal of the Year presented by AT&T and Save of the Year presented by Degree Men (Nov. 18) and the MLS Commissioner's Award (Nov. 22).

What are your thoughts on the finalists, snubs, etc.?

Five Sounders named finalists for year-end awards

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 10:21:00 -0800

Seattle head coach Sigi Schmid, goalkeeper Kasey Keller, central defender Jhon Kennedy Hurtado, midfielder Freddie Ljungberg and forward Fredy Montero are finalists for MLS 2009 year-end awards.

Sounders for Halloween ...

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 17:55:00 -0700

We want your Sounders Halloween pictures!!

If you see anyone in Sounders gear for Halloween or you are wearing the rave green yourself, post your pictures here.

Still confused ...

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 15:38:00 -0700

Can someone help me out here?

What is "unsporting" about being run over by a man twice your size after play has already stopped? And further, isn't shoving players away from a fallen teammate while not trying to actually make peace in the situation somewhat "unsporting?"

Sounders and Dynamo Scoreless in First Leg

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:31:00 -0700

Frequent foes will meet for a fifth time November 8 in Houston for the return match.

Sounders FC sell out first home playoff match

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 07:22:00 -0700

Tickets distributed for tonight’s match will be approximately 35,700.

Ljungberg voted MLS Player of the Month

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 07:12:00 -0700

Ljungberg recorded four assists while leading Seattle to a 3-0-0 record during the month, and a berth in the 2009 MLS Cup Playoffs.

Show your spirit and help scarf the sound

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 09:55:00 -0700

Conference Semifinal round is a two-match series and starts Thursday.

Sounders FC to face Houston in MLS West Semifinals

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 15:00:00 -0700

Seattle Hosts Dynamo on Thursday, Visits Houston on November 8.

Sounders sink Dallas 2-1

Sat, 24 Oct 2009 17:06:00 -0700

Sigi Schmid became the all-time winningest coach in the MLS in the Sounders regular season finale.

Sounders FC fans snatch up playoff tickets

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 17:00:00 -0700

Team to open 3000 loge seats in upper level.

Sounders FC shatter MLS attendance records

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 17:00:00 -0700

The Sounders FC also set the MLS record for highest average attendance per game at 30,943.

Sounders FC to salute fans as inaugural season ends

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 06:49:00 -0700

Owners to reveal permanent tribute to season ticket holders at Qwest Field before the end of Seattle's record-breaking first season of existence.

Sounders Clinch Playoff Berth

Sat, 17 Oct 2009 14:44:00 -0700

Seattle came-from-behind to top Kansas City 3-2 to become the second team in MLS history to reach the postseason in their first year.

America SCORES Seattle Happy Hour Fundraiser at The George and Dragon Pub

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 09:50:00 -0700

Join Coach Sigi Schmid and Technical Director Chris Henderson as they help raise money for America SCORES Seattle.

A Crowded Dance Card

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 08:39:00 -0700

After a weekend off, the Sounders came back to training Monday with a thicker cluster of playoff contenders.

Sounders prepare for final playoff push

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 09:20:00 -0700

With just two games left on the schedule, Sigi Schmid gave the Sounders a weekend off to gear up for a playoff fight.

Sounders FC inch closer to playoffs with historic win

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 08:04:00 -0700

With two matches left, Sigi Schmid has the Sounders gearing toward postseason play.

Sounders top Crew

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 13:33:00 -0700

Roger Levesque scored his first career MLS goal and Kasey Keller recorded his 10th shutout to end the Crew's 22-game home unbeaten streak.

Defender Leo Gonzalez called in by Costa Rica

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 09:43:00 -0700

Costa Rica hosts Trinidad & Tobago on October 10 and plays the United States in Washington, D.C., on October 14, so Gonzalez will not miss any time for MLS play when the Sounders FC returns to action on October 17 in Kansas City.

Sounders fall 2-1 to Revolution

Sat, 26 Sep 2009 13:50:00 -0700

Fredy Montero tallied his 12th goal of the season, but Shalrie Joseph scored twice to give New England the win.

Sounders FC to host Philadelphia Union in 2010 MLS First Kick

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 04:24:00 -0700

March 25 season opener to be televised on ESPN2

Drew Carey joins board of U.S. World Cup bid

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 05:42:00 -0700

Comedian Drew Carey is joining the board of the U.S. bidding committee trying to land the tournament in 2018 or 2022.

Sounders FC 0, Chivas USA 0

Sat, 19 Sep 2009 09:23:00 -0700

The Sounders FC and Chivas USA batteled to a 0-0 draw at the XBOX Pitch at Qwest Field

Sounders FC players to appear with Open Cup Trophy on Sunday

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 08:37:00 -0700

Sounders FC players will appear at The Pro Shop at Pacific Place on Sunday, September 20 from 2-4 p.m.

More trivial trivia

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 16:35:00 -0700

Lo and behold… another Sounders FC questionnaire! Enjoy!

Which teammate would you least like to have sing at your wedding? Why?

Pat Ianni- Because I am happily married, there will be no more weddings, but I would not have employed any of my teammates for that job at our wedding!

Tyson Wahl- Pat Ianni, I hear him sing everyday on the drive to practice and although he has a nice baritone sound, it wouldn't be quite the right tone for a wedding.

Nate Sturgis- Montero, cause it would be in Spanish and I like to understand what’s being sung at my wedding.

Ben Dragavon- Probably Kasey Keller. I don't think my future wife would appreciate him altering "Here comes the Bride" into a raging death metal tune.

Mike Fucito- I would least like to have Evan Brown sing at my wedding. He is so young looking that I think his voice might crack mid song and that's not good for anybody.

Would you rather go two weeks without talking or a whole year without eating any meat (including fish)? Why?

Ianni- I would rather go two weeks without talking because Dave Tenny says fish and red meat are needed complete proteins.

Wahl- I tend to be more often hungry than talkative, so clearly two weeks without talking.

Sturgis- 2 weeks without talking, cause I would just text message.

Dragovan- I would rather go two weeks without talking. If I stopped eating meat I would have a body like Pete Vagenas.

Fucito- I would go two weeks without talking for sure. Since my nickname is Meatball, you can imagine how hard it would be for me to not eat meat for a year. I am not a huge talker anyway, so I think that would be easier.

Would you rather give up your cell phone or any access to the internet (including on your cell phone) for a year? Why?

Ianni- I would give up my cell phone before Internet. It's a pain to be accessible all the time. I'd just get a house line.

Wahl- I think I could give up both relatively easily, having said that, I overuse both. I would give up access to the internet because I prefer keeping in touch with people by phone because it is a little more personal than chat, facebook, etc.

Sturgis- Cell phone, cause I would use a land line.

Dragovan- Cell phone. I can't go more than two days without jumping on YouTube and listening to 'Evan Brown' by Mandy.

Fucito- Since I do not have a home phone, I would have to keep my cell phone over the internet. I can always read a newspaper, but I would like to have my phone to be able to talk to my friends and family back home.

If you could go back to your first day of high school knowing what you know now, would you? Why?

Ianni- In some ways, yes. Definitely. I would have definitely started eating sushi at a younger age and read more books.

Wahl- The idea of going back sounds enticing. Just knowing what is actually important versus what is totally meaningless would change the way a lot of people spent their time in High School. I think I could last about a week before going crazy. I am happy with the way things turned out.

Sturgis- I would go back for sure, and play golf… it is awesome.

Dragovan- It would be pretty hard considering how everything has gone this year, but the temptation of returning to Monroe High School (a.k.a. Bearcat Country) is impossible to ignore.

Fucito- I am not sure that I would. I like having my life be new and exciting.

What is your most embarrassing soccer moment?

Ianni- It was pretty embarrassing getting sent home from my first ever practice at six years old by my dad.

Wahl- It’s definitely pertinent to the Sounders and embarrassing. So, when I found out that I was chosen to come to Seattle in the expansion draft I was given a ton of phone numbers to figure out moving expenses, hotels, and other teams stuff. Well, I wanted to contact a team administrator about covering moving expenses but someone gave me Joe Roth's, our majority owner's phone number instead of our team administrator’s phone number. Naively, I ended up leaving a message on Joe’s voicemail asking him to provide me with information on my moving expenses. Imagine that. Maybe it was more stupidity than embarrassment, but funny nonetheless.

Sturgis- Filling out a questionnaire for a teammate.

Dragovan- Losing to Sanna Nyassi on FIFA ‘09.

Fucito- There is not one particular moment that sticks out. But I know there has been a time when I got megged pretty bad or completely wiffed on a shot.

What is your favorite place or aspect of Seattle excluding anything soccer related?

Ianni- My favorite place in Seattle is my home. My wife and I keep it nice and it's where I feel most comfortable.

Wahl- Well, when the sun is out it is beautiful. The proximity of lakes, mountains, and downtown Seattle is really unique.

Sturgis- The water.

Dragovan- Hanging out at 99.9 The Rock with my buddies Thee Ted Smith, Matty C, and Seany Mac.

Fucito- My favorite aspect of Seattle is the scenery. There is no other place like it. There are mountains, oceans, lakes, everything. You can’t get views like you have in Seattle in too many other places around the world.

Whose trademark hairdo would you rather have: Kasey Keller's 1985 mullet, Cobi Jones' dreads, Alexi Lalas' goatee and flowing red locks, or Valderrama's afro?

Ianni- I would go with the Afro

Wahl- I have already been wrongfully accused of having red hair so I would choose to have Valderrrama's afro. It's definitely the most stylish of the group.

Sturgis- Keller Mullet

Dragovan- Well, considering that I plan on being Kasey Keller circa 1985 for Halloween, I'm gonna go with his mullet. Kasey Keller is to the mullet what Donald Trump is to the comb over.

Fucito- I have no idea. If I had any of those hairdos I would just shave my head.

What is the thing you miss most about your hometown, or last place you lived?

Ianni- Family, friends, and food.

Wahl- I miss the constant sunshine in Newport Beach and being near my family.

Sturgis- Chick-fil-A

Dragovan- My friends. And tipping cows.

Fucito- I miss being on the east coast. It just has a different feel. I also miss Boston sports. There is nothing like going to Fenway park and watching my look-a-like (Dustin Pedroia) dominate. Every Boston sports team is very good and, unlike Seattle, we have an NHL hockey team.

On which of the following programs would you prefer to be a reality TV star: Bachelor, Survivor, Real World, Iron Chef, Project Runway? Why?

Ianni- Survivor or iron chef. They are the least fake and most interesting to me.

Wahl- I have to admit that I was addicted to the Bachelorette this past season. I was definitely not alone, other team members absolutely participated in this ludicrous act. I wouldn't last a second, serenading girls, singing country songs, letting go of your integrity. Going on Survivor would be my best option, minus the whole getting hungry thing.

Sturgis- Iron Chef, cause then I would learn how to cook.

Dragovan- I'm fairly certain I would be booted off any reality tv show that I was on due to my awkwardness and lack of personality.

Fucito- I think being on Iron Chef would be cool. If that were the case, I would be able to make myself some pretty mean dinners every night. My cooking skills at the moment are somewhat lacking, so that would be my choice for sure.

Please come up with a caption for the following photo. (sorry Pat)

Ianni- How can a professional soccer player be scared of a soccer ball?

Wahl- (whispering) Excuse me. Your balls are showing...

Sturgis- MEAT!!!!!!!!!!

Dragovan- Pat Ianni displays a fine tribute to the king of pop, Michael Jackson.

Fucito- Sounders defender Patrick Ianni tries a new technique in an effort to throw off opposing forwards, as he tries to mess them up by showing them his O-FACE.

MLS Announces World Cup Break

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 10:02:00 -0700

Commissioner Don Garber announced Wednesday a change in the MLS schedule for the 2010 World Cup.

Hola a todos

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 14:20:00 -0700

Hola a todos.

Hoy abro mi “blog,” un espacio donde comparto algo de mis pensamientos a los fanaticos. En mi primer entrada, quería contarle que he disfrutado mi nueva vida en Seattle y con los Sounders FC. Este equipo son capaz de hacer algo grande en el MLS. Pero hemos competido con otros equipos de gran nivel. Si nos entrenariamos muy duro y jugariamos bien, todo es posible. Me hago muchas ilusiones. Sin duda, estoy buscando un titulo.

Me impresionó mucho la calidad del MLS. Tienen jugadores conocidos en todo el mundo, tal como nuestra mediocampista, Freddie Ljungberg, y el colombiano, Juan Pablo Angel en Nueva York. Tambien, la condicion de los estadios es mejor que lo que he visto en Costa Rica.

La vida en los Estados Unidos ha pasado muy tranquilo. Vivo en el mismo edificio donde vive el colombiano Jhon Kennedy Hurtado. Él me ayuda con todo aqui en Seattle. Pero me hace falta mis padres en San Jose, Costa Rica. Hablo con ellos por “Skype” todo el tiempo. Y con la Red, mis padres pudieron ver el partido amistoso contra Barcelona. Me alegre que ellos podría seguirme en Costa Rica. Gracias a Dios.

Por último, quería agradecer a todo la afición de los Sounders por todo el apoyo que me han dado durante estas tres o cuatro semanas.

Un saludo,

Leo Gonzalez

Esta foto es de cuando yo estaba con el equipo nacional de Costa Rica.

Once in a lifetime

Sat, 01 Aug 2009 07:50:00 -0700

All-Star week is all wrapped up, but for me, it started a little bit earlier than for others.

On Monday, I hopped in a Blue Angel with Lt. Ben Walborn for a once-in-a-lifetime experience and I had an absolute phenomenal time. I knew I was in trouble because I don’t handle motion-sickness well and I knew I was going to get creamed. But you have to have them take it to the limit. If I would have had to take it down a notch, then I would have had to, but because I had a couple of days before the game, I just had a phenomenal time. When I hit 7.4 Gs and blacked out for about three seconds, after that I didn’t feel too good for the rest of the flight. I’m still recovering from that, but we had a lot of fun.

They teach you some of the techniques to push some blood back up to your head when you start hitting the Gs and he counts it down when you’re going to start doing some things. Lt. Walborn was tremendous and I thank him a lot. We did some really cool stuff. We were shooting in between the mountains in the Olympics and we came shooting up the side and inverted at the top and then flew upside-down down the backside. It was some really fun stuff and we had a great time.

We’ve all seen air shows, but you don’t truly have a respect for what those guys do until you are in there. And they are doing it without G-suits and I was beat when I got out of the plane and he still had two other times for two other people. And he’s just cruising - that’s just another day at the office for him. I want to see him take penalties. It’s an impressive job, that’s for sure.

That was disappointing. I wish it would have malfunctioned after the first 30 minutes when I was feeling great and having fun and joking with him. Then when I got sick, I had no problem that the camera malfunctioned. But they’re going to take it to their techs and see if they can dig something out of the card. But it’s in my head and there’s no way it’s ever going to escape there. Big thanks to the Navy for giving me the opportunity. Not too many people get that opportunity, so big thanks.

After that, I jumped on Adrian Hanauer’s jet and flew to Salt Lake. I got my color back before we got on the plane and thank god we had a nice calm flight down to Salt Lake because I don’t think Adrian and Gary Wright wanted to see me throw up in that plane.

Training on Monday and Tuesday was pretty mellow. Dominic Kinnear wasn’t going crazy about anything, he just wanted to get the guys running around. We had guys coming for Gold Cup finals and everybody’s in the middle of their season and a little banged up. So we just wanted to get a little bit of shape and get the starting team out. Dominic did a good job of keeping the mood loose and I think the guys responded well to it.

I’d played in some big charity games and some world all-star games where guys are coming in from a bunch of different teams, so it was similar. The difference with this is that this was a little bit more competitive. A lot of times you come into those charity games and it’s all about the crowds and goals and guys aren’t defending real well. Here, this was more of a serious game. So it was a little different.

As for the game, I felt bad for Stuart Holden – Louis Saha picked him off and finished the one-on-one, but after that he played brilliant. After the first 10-15 minutes, we were the better team. Landon buries that chance 99 out of 100 times and Conor Casey was an animal up front. I thought everybody took the game very serious. Freddie Ljungberg played great and Montero had a great shot that Tim made a good save on. Overall, it was a great representation for the league and the Sounders players and everybody in the organization.

It was fun, we were up in the mountains. I took the gondola up for the MLS All-Star Jam. My family flew in on Tuesday and it was what I hoped. It wasn’t too intense, but at the same time everyone took it serious enough.

Until next time,

Kasey
#18

Not-So-Deep Thoughts

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 09:54:00 -0700

For those of you who did not see it, yes I was on The Price is Right. Yes, it was an amazing experience, and yes, I was pretty embarrassed when I watched it.

http://www.soundersfc.com/media-library/Videos/Features/2009/06-June/090625-Price-Is-Right.aspx

See, I am a guy who likes to laugh. I prefer to laugh at others, don't get me wrong, but I can laugh at myself also (within reason). It is for this reason that I sent an email to my soccer friends, college friends, high school friends, family, random acquaintances, and bitter enemies broadcasting the date and timing of my television debut. In an effort to show everyone that I too can take a joke, or poke fun at myself, I threw them an alley-oop to mock me.

To be honest, it was the least I could do for Evan Brown after all the April Fool's pranks, the "Evan Brown I never want to see you frown" extravaganza, and the constant harassment he gets from my behalf. Evan, this was my metaphorical hug. So I hope you enjoyed it.

The whole experience was surreal. Yesterday I was a kid skipping school because of a fever, headache, or avoiding female bullies, and I would stay home wallowing in my sorrow while watching the Price is Right on TV. Those were the Bob Barker days. Yes Happy, the price is right.... bi$%h!

Today I am the guy who got to present a showcase-showdown and shamelessly plug to the game-show world how cool the Seattle Sounders FC organization is. Sure, I had to read some cue-cards (thanks mom for teaching me how to read good), got to spin the wheel back stage (I got 70 cents and selfishly went for the perfect $1 and obviously busted), mingle with the Barker beauties (sorry Drew, I don't know what they are called now), and see firsthand how the show runs. Honestly, they must give everyone in the audience a sixer of Red Bull, and a package of Pixy Stix cause I have never seen a group of people so enthusiastic / hyper / excited to guess the prices of random consumer goods.

In summary, it was everything I hoped for and more.

So we just passed the halfway mark of the season, and I feel now would be an appropriate time as any to be reflective. In an attempt to mirror SNL's "Deep Thoughts by Jack Handey", I present to you, with caution, "Not-So Deep Thoughts by Taylor Graham."

1- Why isn't Arkansas spelled "Ar-Kan-Saw"? I mean come on. If we pronounce k-a-n-s-a-s the way we do, then why should a-r-k-a-n-s-a-s be that different. I feel like I am taking crazy pills.

2- For those who did not see the "Keller do the Cobain" sign in Portland, it was there. Personally I think even a cardboard cutout of Kasey Keller resting in the goal mouth would intimidate the Portland strikers.

3- I have heard that peanut butter and pickle sandwiches are delicious. Who knew?

4- Is it possible to combine the best four games ever into one sport? I mean, who would not want to play a hybrid of Connect Four, Ping Pong, Soccer, and Mario Cart ...

5- I am certain that there is no better place to watch a soccer match in this continent than a Sounders game at Qwest. No doubt about it.

Nine Questions

Thu, 28 May 2009 14:28:00 -0700

The lapse in my blogging has been for good reasons. I was back on the pitch after being sidelined with a broken foot/toe/toenail, as the guys on the team like to call it. Pranks, blogging, and messing with Evan Brown all took the back seat to getting fit and healthy. But I am hurt again ** tear, sniffle ** but I am pleased to say these equally important topics can re-commence.

I was just watching Lebron and the Cavs in the NBA playoffs, and I found myself wondering things like, “Is Lebron as cool as he seems on TV?” or “Does Lebron enjoy the melodious singing of Kelly Clarkson like the rest of us?” or “What would Lebron do as a prank to young rookies on his team?”

I don’t know why, but I always wonder what it would be like to know the answers to questions as innocent and thought-provoking as these.

Lo and behold, here is my feeble attempt for you to get to know the REAL Sounders FC.

Question #1- What is your favorite sports team outside of soccer?

Kasey Keller, Goalkeeper #18: Seahawks

Brad Evans, Midfielder #4: Phoenix Suns

Roger Levesque, Forward #24: Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics, Bruins… with all of it’s recent sports success, Boston has to be the #1 sports city in the US.

Evan Brown, Defender #16: Carolina Panthers

Zach Scott, Defender #20: Indianapolis Colts

#2- What is your favorite movie?

Keller: Shawshank Redemption

Evans: “yes Satan?” Ace Ventura Pet Detective

Levesque: anything Meg Ryan

Brown: Fracture

Scott: How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days… stop laughing

#3- If you could be a professional athlete in any sport, other than soccer, what would it be and why?

Keller: Golf, you follow the good weather and it is down to how successful you are, not someone else’s opinion.

Evans: I would probably be a tennis player so I could wear cut off t-shirts and not be so self conscious about my arms.

Levesque: Professional Hockey – those guys seem like some of the hardest working and toughest athletes in the world.

Brown: Golf because it is relaxing and competitive at the same time.

Scott: Professional surfer of course.

#4- If every player on the Sounders could field a team of 11 of themselves, which teams would win? For example, 11 Fredy Monteros vs 11 Kasey Kellers?

Keller: Taylor Graham cause he could bash his opponents with his crutches.

Evans: I would say Nate Jaqua just because he’s big and scary. He would be a beast in the back and we all know he throws bows up front.

Levesque: 11 Osvaldo Alonsos, he does everything.

Brown: Brad Evans

Scott: Brad Evans

#5- If you could have the ability to fly or teleport, which would you choose and why?

Keller: How fast can I fly? Flying would be more fun, but teleporting would be more practical.

Evans: I would choose to fly. I would have three speeds: slow, fast, and really fast.

Levesque: I would rather be able to teleport – well, assuming you could teleport with clothes on.

Brown: flying because you can still get where you want to go, but enjoy it at the same time.

Scott: fly

#6- Who in the world would you least like to match up against in a soccer game?

Keller: Jeffrey Dalhmer

Evans: The one person I would dread being matched up against is probably Gatusso. I hear he eats babies.

Levesque: Lebron

Brown: Cristiano Ronaldo

Scott: Lionel Messi

#7- Would you rather be proficient in two languages, or three instruments? Which ones would you choose?

Keller: Already proficient in two languages. Three instruments would be cool. The pan flute, the zither, and I have always been a big fan of the harpsichord.

Evans: I would choose to speak two languages. Obviously English would be one but probably Portuguese cause it is sexy!

Levesque: Probably two languages, because then I could tell Jhon Kennedy to stop being such a baby… and he would understand.

Brown: 2 languages: Spanish and Italian

Scott: Two languages, English and Italian… still struggling with da English apparently.

#8- If you had to leave your kids alone with one teammate for a weekend (assuming you have kids) who would you choose?

Keller: I think my kids might be older than some of my teammates, but if I really had to choose I would pick Amadeus (Freddie Ljungberg’s dog).

Evans: I would probably choose Nate Jaqua. I feel like there is a lot to learn from a nature guy. It would be like sending your kids to boy scout camp.

Levesque: If I had kids, probably Evan Brown because they could relate on that childish level.

Brown: not Roger Levesque

Scott: Alana (my wife) is watching me answer this question and she says no one is qualified for a weekend… an afternoon maybe.

#9- If you could have 10 shots from the penalty spot at one teammate bending over, who would you pick?

Keller: I would rather have one shot at ten different players!

Evans: This is the easiest pick of the bunch of questions. Evan Brown… even though I pick on him everyday, I would take enormous pleasure in crushing balls from 12 yards at the 16th pick of the 2009 MLS draft!

Levesque: Definitely Ben Dragavon – the biggest target!

Brown: Taylor Graham

Scott: Kasey Keller because he will not let me be the big spoon with him on the road when we are roommates!

Mandy

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 21:36:00 -0700

I am writing with a plea for help. Like when the city of Gotham summons Batman to fight crime with the “bat symbol,” I am calling upon everyone with a computer and Internet access to help me conquer my Everest. I implore all Sounders FC fans, all soccer fanatics, and all blog lovers to unite with one common goal.

Some people dream of traveling to space, many aspire to sail around the world, while others wish to run a marathon. I, on the other hand, have but one simple yet ambitious goal in mind at the present. With your help, my goal will be accomplished.

While in Argentina for preseason, in between amazing steak feasts and games against River or Estudiantes, we were privileged to meet the Sounders FC’s most passionate South American fans. Two young girls of American descent living in Argentina met us at our hotel for some autographs and pictures. Little did I know, this interaction would change my life forever.

After all normal pleasantries, one of these girls, let’s call her “Mandy,” presented Evan Brown with a tribute of her affection. Mandy, an aspiring singer/song writer, proceeded to give him a hand-written copy of the lyrics to a song that she had written. She assured us that her song would be recorded and put online, but despite my best efforts to persuade her to sing it in front of the team, she respectfully declined.

She held true to her word, though, and her song, entitled “Evan Brown” is now on YouTube for us all to cherish. Enjoy!

Here is where my dream comes in. I know that many of you have seen this song, or at least heard about it. It has been mentioned in several local blogs, even got a brief shot-out during the FSC broadcast of the Sounders FC v Toronto FC match last weekend. But I want to take it to a whole new level. I want it to rival the likes of “Charlie bit my finger”, or “Where the hell is Matt.”

What is my motivation for this you ask? It is NOT to embarrass a young rookie who has handled the plentiful rookie pranks with flying colors, but rather to promote the talent of Mandy. She is an amazing song performer and writer, and I want to give her my personal thanks. Her song is catchy, clever, and trust me, you may even wake up singing it in the morning if you are not careful (yes, this has happened to me).

Here is where “you” come in. Watch the song. Enjoy the song. Send it to your family, your friends, your enemies… I do not care, just as long as we are spreading the word.

If you are bored at work, watch it. If you have a party, plug your computer into some speakers and blast it for everyone to enjoy. If you are in the Sounders FC Band, the “Sound Wave,” maybe try to learn how to play it at games. These are just some suggestions, but feel free to be creative.

I know this is ambitious, but with your help, let’s get to the 20,000 view mark by June 1st. We are almost a fourth of the way there already (as of 8:52 pm on Friday April 10th).

Please pass on my plea for help. Without your assistance, my goal would be impossible. And as adidas (MLS sponsor… plug) says “Impossible is nothing.”

Remixes or response videos to this song are encouraged.

April Fools

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 20:03:00 -0700

First and foremost, I must say thank you. Thanks to everyone who has made the first two weeks of the inaugural Sounders FC season what is has been. And we all know what it has been: loud, energetic, vividly green, and successful from everyone’s perspective. Even as an injured player, every time I walk into the stadium and feel the energy, I get the chills. America, the MLS, and Seattle have all been waiting for this, and for this I must reiterate, on behalf of all the players, thank you.

And with no hesitation, let’s get into the good stuff. I understand that many of you have questions about what goes on within the team, and what it is like to be a member of the “jigsaw puzzle” that is the Sounders FC. And the purpose of this blog is to shed some light on some of the most commonly asked questions throughout Seattle regarding the team.

1. What is Freddie Ljungberg like and what has his addition meant to the team?

Ladies you might want to sit down before you read this section, and fellas, I apologize for bringing up the fact that he is still a Calvin Klein underwear model. Freddie is simply one of the guys. Sure he has played at a level that all of us have only dreamt about while playing FIFA ’07, or when we nod off on the couch on a Tuesday afternoon watching the UEFA Champions League. Yeah he dresses nicer than we do, well at least according to pop culture rather than from Kasey Keller, but that is no big deal. Personally it does not bother me when people find out I play on the Sounders FC and ask, “Taylor, it would be amazing if I could, um, please please please have Freddie’s autograph… or briefs…” To some this might be a nuisance. To me, it is simply part of the blessing that is being Freddie’s teammate. The only thing that bothers me, honestly, is when he picks the music in the locker room. Really Freddie??? How much ABBA can we listen to? I feel like I have Muriel’s Wedding on repeat in my head. Only kidding, he does not listen to ABBA all the time. Just Monday through Friday.

2. Who is this clean-cut Roger Levesque, and when will the legend that is “Roger the King” return?

I too wish I had the answer to this question. For too many years Sounders fans have grown accustomed to Roger’s hard work, and blue collar mentality, which was matched only by his Prefontaine-esque dew and stache. Only one of the forementioned items remains, and we all know which one it is. I think the re-birth of the Sounders franchise prompted a self-imposed image makeover. I wish he could step into a time machine and change the “GQ Roger” to “Johnny Depp in Blow Roger”, but it is not that simple. For us to accomplish this, we must work together. I encourage everyone to bring posters, banners, signs, even fake mustaches to games to remind Roger how cool he once was.

3. Were there any April Fool’s pranks on the team?

Good question. And I am pleased to say there were. Someone, who will remain anonymous for the time being, organized a fake appearance at Pike’s Place market for the two rookies: Evan Brown and Steve Zakuani. After a training session in which it snowed (in April, are you serious), the two young-bucks shuttled off to downtown in their full jerseys for a photo shoot for the Seattle magazine. (For those who have not seen the spread in the March issue, please check it out.)

Evan and Steve were met by a photographer and two reps from Seattle Magazine, or so they thought, for a photo shoot. Posing for an article entitled “The Fresh Fish of the Sounders FC,” an elaborate scene was set up to take some quick pics of the two incorporating the theme of “freshness.” As it was explained to Evan and Steve, the Sounders are the freshest team in Seattle, and they were the freshest faces on that team. Therefore, logical to everyone else except those two, it was necessary to incorporate some fresh fish and vegetables into the photo shoot.

Soon Evan had his shirt off (again), and was balancing a cabbage on his foot while Steve did the same with some ice-burg lettuce. People soon gathered around, curious about what was transpiring. The “money-shot” and finale to the prank took place when a three foot fish was added to the mix. While Steve stood in a Mr. Miyagi pose, still balancing an eggplant, Evan lifted the fish overhead, while still balancing some lettuce on his foot. The pictures explain it all. Enjoy. Welcome to the MLS, rookies.

A Feast from Argentina

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 21:05:00 -0800

Blog lovers… grab your napkin and feast on some more stories from Argentina.

In the past update, our group was jet lagged and enjoying some periodic comedy at the expense of the rookies and young guys on the team. Well, one thing has changed, and I am glad to say that we are acclimated to the time change.

Our team is coming together quite nicely, both on and off the field. There is nothing better for team camaraderie than some light-hearted and juvenile jokes, pranks, and skits. And the fact that we are in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, playing a game we all love does not hurt either.

From a soccer perspective things have gone decently. Our first game was a against Estudiantes de La Plata, and while we went down 1-0 on an unfortunate own goal, we responded quite nicely in the second half with three unanswered goals. Despite tired legs and hot weather, our team showed some character in finding a way to win. It is just as important to train these habits as it is to work on our fitness and technical ability.

The following day, in the heart of an Argentinean summer afternoon, we drew against CED, and continued our progress forward as a team. Of particular note was the inclusion of the newest member of the Sounders FC family Jhon Kennedy Hurtado, who has logically acquired the nickname “El Presidente.” He quickly joined Fredy Montero and Osvaldo Alonso as the final member of the Three Amigos. Don’t let their language barrier fool you, for they have immersed themselves into the team’s personality and banter just as much as anyone else.

Two particular stories on interest:

Two nights ago we had the privilege of dining a la casa de Ricardo, the organizer of our trip down here in South America. Following a 45-minute drive from downtown, three vanloads of hungry males showed up with high expectations and huge appetites and we were certainly not let down.

For the uninformed, Argentina is known for their amazing steaks, so for the past several nights, for us red-meat lovers, we have been in heaven. Feasting on massive steaks and a popular Argentinean tomato salad, only interrupted by jokes from rookies and coaches, or stories about Patrick Ianni and Brad Evans’ engagements, we soon found out that the scheduled entertainment was just as impressive as the food.

A 30-minute Tango presentation opened our eyes to a much more impressive style of “grinding.” One of the dancers performed a native tap-dancing piece, and, to be honest, I have not seen anyone’s feet move that quickly or fluidly since I last saw Ezra tearing up a dance floor in Belltown.

A magic show soon followed (I know what you are thinking, we are not 8-year-olds anymore, or entertained by balloon animals, but it was David Blaine-esque). At one point, four members of the team were on stage, including myself, assisting in the “magic making,” when we realized that our watches had been taken off, and put back on someone else in the group. Again, I know what you are thinking… that this is not magic, but rather a perfected art of distraction or a petty-theft in training, but just ask Evan Brown how the magician was able to guess a number between 1 and 1000 that only he knew and told no one else. It was impressive.

The night was finally capped by a salsa performance from Fredy Montero (watch out ladies, he even had Roger waiting in line for a shot at following his lead).

Yesterday we attended the Boca Juniors v. Huracan game a la Bombanera. One piece of advice for those attending a game in Argentina in a massive group: Do not give all your ticket stubs to an event usher, because you may not see them again. After finding seats, (actually, not our seats, just vacant ones), we had some time to visit with friend and former teammate Khano Smith and some of the New York Red Bulls who were also in attendance.

Soon the game commenced, and we soon found ourselves singing along with the Boca 12th man despite not knowing the words… the atmosphere was that infectious. Throughout the game, we experienced every type of weather imaginable: blue skies, light rain, torrential downpours, hail, lightning and thunder, you name it. But nothing could dissuade us from leaving our seats to seek shelter. A goal from Palermo ignited the crowd and soon no one realized that we were all as wet as if we were in a swimming pool. Well, I guess it was good practice for living in Seattle.

Updates to follow…

- Taylor

Greetings from Argentina!

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 16:32:00 -0800

Bienvenido de Argentina-

Having arrived safely, and with little-to-no complications, I would have to say that overall this travel day was a success. Sure the majority of they guys are pretty fatigued, but that is expected after traveling all day in planes for over 14 hours. We arrived this morning in Buenos Aires to a beautiful day, much like Seattle: 80 degree weather, blue skies, no clouds, and soccer pitches lining the 10 lane highway all the way from the airport to our hotel right in the heart of the city (sorry but I think my jet lag is clouding my memory of Seattle).

The flight from Dallas to Buenos Aires was rather disappointing compared to the flight from Seattle to Los Angeles on our last trip. While we had a much more entertaining array of movies to chose from, “Quantum of Solace”, “Slumdog Millionaire”, and “Four Christmases” (which Nate Jaqua cannot stop raving about), it lacked the personality of our previous flight. Over the PA speaker from Seattle to Los Angeles, one of the Alaskan flight attendants tracked down Evan Brown’s bio from the internet, and shed some light into his likes and dislikes. According to the flight attendant, who came across as quite knowledgeable by the way, he described Mr. Brown as both a Wake Forest scholar and gentleman, who enjoys long walks on the beach. His favorite albums on his ipod are Kelly Clarkson, and Clay Aiken. While some individuals might shy away from sharing their personality in such a public arena, Evan embraced it, and as a team we grew closer. Thanks Evan!

Back to Argentina... collecting bags upon our arrival turned out to be quite a daunting task. With a party of over 35 people, and a significant amount of team bags along for the ride, the baggage claim area quickly became chaotic. One younger member of the team, who shall remain anonymous for now, actually thought his bag was misplaced by the airline. After checking the various piles several times, it had not surfaced, but eventually Nate Jaqua found an unclaimed bag hidden beneath several others and examined its contents to find its rightful owner. It was the well-loved teddy bear, clearly worn-in from significant cuddling and hugging, in the top of the bag that pointed us in the direction of its owner. Wow…

Soon we were greeted at the airport by our local liaisons. I am one of the few fortunate ones to have met Ricardo, Carachio, and Leo (who many of us fondly refer to as the “Argentinian Roger Levesque” because of his flowing hair and charm with women) during our last excursion to Argentina in October. They quickly had us on our way to the hotel, and enjoying our first team meal of the trip. A short practice followed highlighted by the inclusion of rookies Mike Fucito and Jared Karkas after suffering from hamstring injuries for the past several weeks. With the jet lag out of our systems, and another good meal behind us, a warm bed awaits us for some well needed sleep.

Good night from Argentina!

- Taylor

FSN Match Television Replay Schedule

The FSN Sounders FC match television replay schedule for October.