Seattle Sounders FC - Latest News

Important fan notes for MLS Cup

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 09:21:00 -0800

Sounders FC Players will be recognized on the pitch prior to Sunday’s MLS Cup. Fans are encouraged to be in their seats by 5:15 p.m.

The MLS Cup March to the Match begins Sunday at 3:45 p.m. in Occidental Park, a few blocks north of the stadium. Commissioner Don Garber and members of the Sounders FC ownership, management and playing roster will join the supporters from all teams.

MLS Cup 2009 is set for Sunday night at 5:30 p.m. on the Xbox Pitch at Qwest Field and will be televised nationally on ESPN and Galavision. The game can be heard locally on 97.3 KIRO FM radio with Thom Beuning and Alan Hinton calling the action. The pregame show with Peter Fewing, Cliff McCrath and Matt Johnson begins at 5 p.m.

Over 40,000 tickets have been sold, but fans can purchase tickets www.ticketmaster.com or by calling Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000. MLS Cup tickets are included in the Seattle Sounders FC 18-game season ticket package.

Third Eye Blind will perform hits from Ursa Major, as well as other fan favorites, to a live audience during a free concert between 4:15 p.m. and 5 p.m. PT. Third Eye Blind will be performing before the game in the North Lot of the stadium, with concert footage aired on ESPN’s half-time show. The concert is part of Soccer Celebration, a pre-game event scheduled 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., during which time fans can get players’ autographs, have their photo taken with MLS’ Philip F. Anschutz Championship Trophy and play soccer-themed games.

Schmid Hospitalized

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:33:00 -0800

Sounders FC Head Coach Sigi Schmid was admitted to Overlake Hospital on Thursday night after experiencing difficulty breathing. He was diagnosed with pneumonia. His condition was stabilized and he is now improving, although he remained hospitalized through Saturday.

We will keep you posted when more information becomes available.

Evans makes Seattle greener

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:28:00 -0800

Sounders FC midfielder Brad Evans was among five MLS players who, through the MLS WORKS initiative, participated in the local community in a “Clean and Green Seattle” event. MLS players and executives planted trees, picked up litter and restored green spaces near Qwest Field.

Evans was joined by Juan Pablo Angel of New York, Toronto's Dwayne De Rosario, Kansas City's Jimmy Conrad and Jeff Cunningham of FC Dallas, along with MLS Commissioner Don Garber.

The Clean and Green event is a partnership between MLS W.O.R.K.S. and the City of Seattle, working together to promote the importance of environmental sustainability and volunteerism, attempting to make a difference in the lives of the people of Seattle.
Sounders FC midfielder Brad Evans was among five MLS players who, through the MLS WORKS initiative, participated in the local community in a “Clean and Green Seattle” event. MLS players and executives planted trees, picked up litter and restored green spaces near Qwest Field.

MLS W.O.R.K.S. GREENER GOALS, the League’s environmental platform, was launched during Earth Day 2009 and was activated locally throughout the season by MLS clubs. MLS Cup 2009 marks the culmination of these events. Additional GREENER GOALS elements will include: reduction of the game day carbon use during MLS Cup by offsetting energy in partnership with Portland, Ore.-based Bonneville Environmental Foundation, distributing reusable bags and eco-tip wallet guides to fans and partnering with the Pepsi Recycling Program in-stadium to maximize recycling efforts.

The carbon offsets, purchased from Bonneville Environmental Foundation, will offset 100% of the electricity used at Qwest Field during the day of the game. The carbon dioxide reduction value is the equivalent of more than 2.5 million pounds and will support enough wind energy to power more than 118 homes for the year.

MLS is committed to creating sustainable projects to leave a lasting legacy. MLS W.O.R.K.S. Community Service Program is a collaborative effort to combine sport and service, promote good will within MLS markets and improve lives and communities at the grassroots level. MLS W.O.R.K.S. Community Service Program and GREENER GOALS will encourage MLS clubs, players, corporate partners and fans to create a cleaner, healthier environment.

Soccer City USA

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 02:58:00 -0800

The beautiful game has, unquestionably, taken the city of Seattle by storm in 2009.

Day One of MLS Cup Weekend

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:13:00 -0800

Day One of MLS Cup weekend saw plenty of activity in and around Seattle.

For me, it meant running out to Van Asselt Elementary School for an MLS WORKS/Home Depot playground build. It was quite an experience, as Kasey Keller, Fredy Montero, James Riley and Pete Vagenas were joined by Toronto FC midfielder Dwayne De Rosario and Chivas USA goalkeeper Zach Thornton in building a playground and sprucing up the area. Sounders FC owner Joe Roth and MLS Commissioner Don Garber were also on hand to help.

“I have particular distaste for this man right here,” Roth said of Thornton, who held the Sounders scoreless in three meetings this year. “If I hit him with a rake, you’ll know why.”

The players stayed afterward to sign autographs for the volunteers and students.

But I was off to another engagement prior to heading to Fox Sports Grill for a fundraiser benefiting America Scores Seattle. The silent auction and raffle brought in some great items up for bid and the team offered great support, with Montero, Taylor Graham, Terry Boss and James Riley all appearing, along with New York Red Bulls Seth Stammler and Kevin Goldthwaite.

All told, the benefit raised over $3,000 for America Scores and everyone there had a great time.

Friday should be a little less hectic, though. I will be at training for both Real Salt Lake and the LA Galaxy during the day. Then later, there will be a fish tossing at Pike Place Market. It should be a lot of fun with the Supporters Summit and the MLS Cup just around the corner.

Keller is playing games ...

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:30:00 -0800

Be on the lookout for Bud Light Sounders FC scarves hidden around Seattle. Kasey Keller will be hiding autographed scarves all around Seattle over the next few days.

Check out his blog at KaseysLastLine.com for clues to help you find them.

Commish Heaps Praise

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:03:00 -0800

MLS Commissioner Don Garber addressed the media Monday and, among other things, highlighted the incredible inaugural season for the Seattle Sounders FC.

Garber talked about expanding the league to 20 teams, the increased television ratings despite a microscopic decrease in league attendance and the success of the current crop of Designated Players. But in Seattle his endorsement of the Sounders FC rang the loudest.

“It’s arguably one of the best expansion launches in all of pro sports,” Garber said. “They over-delivered on all of our expectations and we continue to hope to build on the excitement in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest.”

Garber applauded Seattle’s TV ratings, merchandise sales and attendance, as well as recognizing some of the techniques and practices developed by the Sounders that could benefit expansion franchises in the future.

He added that the Sounders “will go down as one of the key moments in the history of the sport in this country.”

With their successful on- and off-field launch also came a highly successful pair of exhibition matches against Chelsea FC and FC Barcelona, which each saw crowds exceeding 65,000. In what was deemed the Summer of Soccer, that was a high-water mark in a highly successful string of friendlies around the country.

Moving forward, Garber said he has had conversations with Montreal to be the 19th team, but no timetable has been placed on when the Canadian side would be able to join the league.

Lastly, Garber touted the success of the Designated Player program. With eight teams featuring the big-name stars, the profile of the league has increased since the rules inception in 2007. And five of the eight playoff teams had DPs on their roster.

“It has certainly been good for the exposure of the league to have some of our recognizable players doing well in the playoffs,” Garber said. “We implemented this rule because we wanted a platform where elite world players could come in and take the standard of play to a new level, and that is what we are now seeing. In our view, it’s a successful initiative.”

Sounders FC fans would struggle to argue after the incredible play of Seattle’s Designated Player, Freddie Ljungberg.

Join Me at Fox Sports Grill

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:39:00 -0800

Join me at Fox Sports Grill on Thursday night from 6-9 as the Sounders FC and MLS WORKS present the America Scores Seattle MLS Cup Pub Crawl.

Several Sounders FC players along with other MLS players from around the league will be on hand for the auction and raffle benefitting America Scores Seattle. You can mingle with those players while you bid on silent auction items and raffle for autographed memorabilia.

Some of the auction and raffle items include:
2009 MLS All-Star team signed ball
2009 MLS All-Star jersey signed by MLS All-Star MVP Tim Howard (GK for Everton FC)
Trip for two to the 2010 AT&T MLS All-Star Game in Houston, Texas
Trip for two to see the Sounders take on the Philadelphia Union in Chester, PA
Two tickets to the MLS Opening Kick March 25, 2010 - Sounders FC vs. Union at Qwest Field
Autographed Sounders jersey
Autographed Sounders ball
And more ...

I look forward to seeing you there.

MLS Cup Arrives in Seattle

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:33:00 -0800

The Phillip F. Anschutz championship trophy made its first appearance in Seattle Wednesday morning, as Sounders FC technical director Chris Henderson and head coach Sigi Schmid toted the MLS Cup trophy off of a ferry to mark the beginning of the MLS Cup festivities.

Schmid and Henderson were greeted at Pier 52 by a group of Sounders FC fans, including King County Executive-Elect Dow Constantine – who is also a Sounders FC season ticket holder and grew up watching the Sounders play in the North American Soccer League.

Henderson and Schmid, both former MLS Cup winners, were escorting the trophy as MLS Ambassadors.

Created by Tiffany & Co, the sterling-silver trophy will be presented at this year’s MLS Cup on Sunday, Nov. 22 at Qwest Field at 5:30 p.m. The game, featuring the LA Galaxy vs. Real Salt Lake, will be televised live on ESPN and Galavision.

Click here to watch the cup's arrival

Tweet Fredy's Feet

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:53:00 -0800

With only three days left (no pun intended) in the Twitter contest, here are some of the front runners for both Fredy's Left and Right feet tweets ...

Fredy’s Left

eighmee #fredysleft has its own zip code.

likkitp I believe Rimando touched #fredysleft foot before stopping those PKs. He was in the zone.

pricehall Apparently, #fredysleft can cause opposing teams' stadiums to lose power. YOU JUST GOT PUNK'D!

ZombieJaqua Zombie Jaqua wants to use #fredysleft foot to travel to future - March 25th, 2010 - to see first Sounders game of next season. Today.

erinbev #fredysleft doesn't fall asleep...it merely waits.

eighmee #fredysleft 's toe jam is like the icing on the cake...the cake of victory...

movindj #fredysleft is so powerful, Luke Skywalker and the rebels keep trying to blow it up

pricehall #fredysleft foot isn't allowed on the Viaduct for fear it will collapse.

Mariagracie HAIKU: Kangaroo-Like Force/ Yet no Joey could survive/ In #fredysleft foot.

AlishaWeiss #fredysleft is so strong that when he strikes the ball his other boot turns white in fear.

Fredy’s Right

epicfotoguy Today the world was supposed to end, but #fredysright saved it!

pricehall #fredysright foot was going to be an unlockable weapon in the new Call of Duty:Modern Warfare 2 for XBOX 360, but it was deemed too violent

pricehall #fredysleft foot is sad, but it's ok because #fredysright is there to cheer him up.

ilovelost_815 #fredysright doesnt even have to shoot the ball because the dynamo defense can score on themselves

pricehall #fredysright foot barely made it on the plane because federal air marshalls feared it was a dangerous weapon.

CHut206 Montero himself is a decent passer but #fredysright foot just passed the health care bill by itself. less than 5 seconds ago

movindj #fredysright just signed a 6 picture deal, brokered peace in the middle east, and has a #1 Billboard hit. #Fredysleft only a 2 picture deal

mastorna if #fredysright than I don't wanna be wrong.

pricehall #fredysright foot is my biological father.

sounderssoccer #fredysright foot can kill two stones with one bird.

sounderssoccer #fredysright foot played russian roulette with a fully loaded gun and still won.

cgrin #fredysright foot killed Chuck Norris.

Nickity_Steez Behold the prolific prowess that is #fredysright foot, the main wheel that drives the machine!

Myman8 Al Gore won the Nobel Peace Prize for determining #fredysright is the cause of global warming.

EvRoKo Little known fact: If you stare directly at #fredysright foot, you wake up the next day -3 pts in the standings. Ask the Red Bulls.

pricehall Sounders spent countless dollars in research and development for the #fredysright foot bobblehead. A design was never approved.

206ness #fredysright is the best because Mama said so. I messed up... stop yelling at me

kentono #fredysright foot speaks 7 languages, including English, it is his left that prevents his mouth from speaking English.

EvRoKo Only #fredysright foot can prevent forrest fires.

GuacBLT Long baffled as to why the world spins, scientists and athletic trainers finally discovered #fredysright pronates slightly when he runs.

ilovelost_815 @soundersfc in heaven, when God sneezes the angels say "#fredysright boot blesses you."

huyclef To the extreme #fredysright rocks the mic like a vandal, lights up the stage and waxes a chump like a candle.

Think you can do better?
Check out the instructions HERE ... start following @soundersfc on Twitter ... pick a foot ... and start tweeting! The war ends on Friday, November 20, 2009.

A moment with FSC's Jeremy St. Louis

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 08:33:00 -0800

This Saturday, Fox Soccer Channel's Jeremy St. Louis is one of the featured guests (along with newly anointed Kitsap Pumas coach Pete Fewing) at Prost Amerika's End of the Season Sounders FC Party from 3-6 at the Baltic Room in Seattle. I caught up with Jeremy this week to get his take on the Sounders FC season.

Insider: First, what kind of expectations did you have for Seattle when they entered the league, both as a soccer community and as a club on the pitch? How were those expectations met and what can Seattle do to follow up the season?

JSL: Speaking for ME personally - I fully expected Sounders FC to be a good team. Sigi Schmid and the front office in Seattle made all the right moves and you just know that Sigi has a plan and knows exactly what he needs to do to execute that plan. Having turned things around in Columbus (and almost getting sacked the season before they won a title!), I think he decided it couldn't get any better in Ohio and so Seattle presented him with a great new challenge. I think they looked closely at what they wanted to accomplish and Sigi knew the pieces he'd need. And what a season you had! I think those of us outside Seattle had a good idea that the team would be supported - but what has happened there this season has blown me away!! Every time I see Sounders FC on TV (we get Seattle TV here in Winnipeg), it gives me goose-bumps! To see a city with a number of established sports franchises get behind Sounders FC the way you did....You've set the bar VERY high for future league entrants in Portland, Vancouver and dare I say Montreal! I know some Toronto fans who thought they were EASILY the most passionate, noisy & cosmopolitan fans in the league. Seattle fans have put them to shame.

In terms of following it up - that's easy: Just keep supporting your team! As much as Toronto fans may have been pushed to 2nd best in terms of their passion, you have to give them full credit for the fact they have not wavered in their support of a team that has disappointed since coming in. They won their first Cup this year but have yet to make the post-season - but the fans continue to show the same level of support since day one. I'm hoping Sounders FC fans do the same IF the club happens to struggle down the road. As they say - a TRUE fan is behind their team for the long haul - win, lose or draw.

The only disappointing thing I can think of in regards to Sounders FC and their fans is that I won't get to see them support the Rave Green in the Cup Final. I was very much hoping to be part of Drew Carey's march to the stadium and experience the true passion in person....but it'll have to wait. I know that the fans will put on a good show regardless but it just won't be the same without your boys playing for the title.

Insider: What needs do the Sounders need to address this off-season?

JSL: I think top of everyone's mind is getting the situation with Freddie Ljungberg & Fredy Montero sorted out. There have been rumors for a while now that Ljungberg could go back to Europe. Montero has also attracted interest after his fantastic first season. Their commitments need to be clarified because if either one of them (or both) leave, that will change the off-season plans - and leave a significant hole. They combined for 14G & 16A so that is a significant amount of offence if they leave (37% of GF).

Having said that, I'll be surprised if Ljungberg goes anywhere. He's been working hard to establish a presence in the US and I genuinely believe he likes it in the Pacific Northwest. Plus, Seattle is not that far away from a team that can win an MLS Cup. I think the prospect of winning a championship will be enough to keep him rather than a spot on a mediocre top-division side in Europe.

Montero is a little tougher to pin down and I know there is interest in Europe after his breakout season. He DID struggle at times during the season and I did hear rumblings about him being 'unsettled' in the early part of the campaign so we'll have to see where his head is after he takes a small break from the game.

If both those players stay, I think Seattle just needs to work on some of the fringe parts - the 'interchangeables' if you will. Sigi Schmid is big on the importance of team chemistry so anyone expecting some wholesale changes in the off-season will be disappointed.

Insider: Seattle will be in Champions League next year. How much does that impact their schedule of matches and their recognition around CONCACAF?

JSL: In order to understand the impact the CONCACAF Champions League will have on a team, simply take a look at what happened to Tom Soehn and DC United this term. With all their games jammed in, I recall him having barely a week between matches and when you have a thin roster like most MLS teams do - it's tough. There is talk of perhaps some roster amendments in the new CBA (Collective Bargaining Agreement), but it's just talk right now. One thing is for sure - fitness and squad rotation will be the key to success both in the Champions League and in MLS. But if there is anyone that can manage it - it's Sigi. I'm sure he has let all the guys know next season will be much different - and much busier, so adhering to their off-season training regimes will be vital. I'm hoping the league seriously looks at roster depth because a lack of it cost Tom Soehn his job - but that is just my opinion.

Commissioner Don Garber is well aware of the challenges the tournament provides in terms of scheduling and roster management so I would expect to see some changes to make it a little easier on MLS teams.

Certainly making a deep run in the Champions League will further enhance Seattle's reputation in the region. One thing is for sure - when those Central American teams come to Qwest for a game against Seattle, they will be shocked....Both pleasantly and unpleasantly!!

Insider: What do you think the league needs to do to garner more respect around the world and/or attract talent from around the world like they have with Ljungberg and Beckham?

JSL: I think it needs to just keep doing what it is doing - growing at a manageable rate. With all the recession and troubled financial times all over the globe, I think MLS has proven that its business model is sound. Commissioner Garber was recently asked to speak before some of the big wigs in the English Premier League and I think just being asked shows that what we are doing over here - while scoffed at by some of the purists - is working in such a way that other leagues are curious about it. And while I do not see salary caps in the near future for European football, with the money - and management of it - spiralling out of control over there, it may become a necessary reality.

It's always been my belief that while the standard of football may not be as high as it is in Europe or elsewhere - it is still entertaining....I know Kevin Payne might disagree with me but....it is! I think that as long as MLS continues to look after itself and not worry about stacking up against the BIG FIVE in Europe, it'll be just fine. The standard (and money) is high enough to attract the Beckham's & Ljungberg's (& Henry's??) of the world so we must be doing something right!

I think Commissioner Garber has done a tremendous job in "controlling the reins" so to speak - knowing when to pull back and when to go full steam ahead. As long as that continues, as I said, MLS will be just fine.

For more information on Saturday's Prost Amerika event, click here.

Freddie named to MLS Best XI

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 04:05:00 -0800

Midfielder Freddie Ljungberg has been named to the MLS Best XI

MLS Cup Matchup Set

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:55:00 -0800

The 2009 MLS Cup will feature the Los Angles Galaxy and Real Salt Lake at Qwest Field. Due to overwhelming demand and extra 6,000 seats are available for purchase.

Montero named MLS Newcomer of the Year

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 03:03:00 -0800

Fredy Montero finished tied for third in goals and game-winning goals, and led MLS in shots and was seventh in attempts on goal.

Sounders Fall In Houston

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 08:57:00 -0800

Seattle's inaugural season came to an abrupt end in a 1-0 loss after extra time to the Houston Dynamo.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.