Jun 28 - Seattle Sounders FC 3 - 0 Colorado Rapids (Montero 23, Jaqua 48, 68). Nate Jaqua and Fredy Montero were part of every goal. The post rejected a Colorado penalty kick to help Kasey Keller earn a shutout.

Jun 27 - From MLSnet: Defensive effort fueling Montero's resurgence: Work on defense creating scoring opportunities for Seattle striker.

From the P-I: Sounders' Evans, Marshall go international in July.

From the News Tribune: Qwest seating increased for hot-selling Sounders: Team increases Qwest seating, which also is selling out quickly. From the Times: Sounders FC opens up about 4,000 more seats.

Jun 26 - The Sounders have added a new player: Sounders FC signs goalkeeper Terry Boss. Boss is 27 and was recently waived by the New York Red Bulls. He played for the USL-2 Charlotte Eagles in 2008. This roster move was probably necessitated by the lengthy recovery of injured Chris Eylander.

From the Everett Herald, Kevin Forrest on his next plan: Sounders waive Forrest.

From FOX Sports: Newest MLS franchise thriving in first season. Another telling of the success story, but done with great style.

From the News Tribune: Evans gets call to join U.S. team: Seattle midfielder becomes part of the mix for Gold Cup.

Jun 25 - The club today reported that Kevin Forrest has been placed on waivers. Forrest did not suit up for any MLS matches, but he played in the most recent US Open Cup qualifier and scored the lone goal.

Soccer By Ives has the newly announced roster for the USA men in the CONCACAF Gold Cup, and it includes Brad Evans: U.S. Gold Cup roster announced (a closer look). Also on the squad is ex-Sounder Brian Ching. Seattle fans will get to see USA play at Qwest on Jul 4.

From the Times: Sounders FC midseason report: Early success, uneven recent play. The News Tribune blog has more quotes from the coach: Sigi gives Sounders mid-season thumbs up.

Jun 24 - From UnitedMania.com, a DC fan contrasts his experiences at away matches in Seattle and Colorado: A tale of two cities.

From MLSnet: Elias Sports Bureau 'Insider's Edge': Looking closely, there is a lot to like about Seattle Sounders FC.

From Sounders FC: Marshall called in by Jamaica. He will join his national team on Jul 1 for the CONCACAF Gold Cup.

Jun 22 - From the News Tribune: Sounders' debut nearly pitch perfect: Midterm report: While on-field success has raised expectations, MLS has been stunning triumph in Seattle so far. From the Sounders FC blog: First half in review.

Jun 20 - New York Red Bulls 1 - 1 Seattle Sounders FC (Angel 40; Montero 45). Both goals came from embarrassing turnovers near goal. Jhon Kennedy Hurtado did not play, flying home to be with his wife and newborn son, Paolo Hurtado, born Jun 19.

Jun 18 - From the Times: Tyson Wahl finds a spot in Sounders FC starting lineup at new position.

Jun 17 - Seattle Sounders FC 3 - 3 DC United (Alonso 38, DC own goal 45, Montero 57; Pontius 34, Gomez 63, Seattle own goal 87). Seattle had this one all but in the bag when an own goal near the end gifted DC with a road draw.

A great story from Seattle Times columnist Steve Kelley: MLS player Cam Weaver scores goals for stricken teammate.

In last night's US Open Cup Round 2, it was Sonomo County Sol 0 - 3 Portland Timbers. The Timbers advance to host Sounders FC at PGE Park on Jul 1.

Ex-Sounder goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann has signed with the newly promoted Wolverhampton Wanderers: Keeper signs.

Jun 13 - Seattle Sounders FC 2 - 1 San Jose Earthquakes (Ljungberg 42, Montero 59; Huckerby 68). Freddie One and Fredy Two brought Seattle back to the win column. And no red cards!

Jun 12 - From the News Tribune: Ianni finally gets his shot: Veteran defender came via trade, only to watch from sideline.

From the Honolulu Advertiser: Family support helped Scott's climb to MLS.

From the Everett Herald: Coach wants Sounders to have 'more aggressive attitude' around the goal.

From the News Tribune: Former Jefferson High star signs with Sounders FC: Tacoma native Lamar Neagle had played for Seattle during the preseason.

From the Times: Sounders FC has seen lots of red this season.

From MLSnet: Schmid dismisses chemistry concerns: Sounders FC coach insists cohesion not an issue for expansion club.

From the University of Washington: Prideaux joins men's soccer program as assistant coach: Former UW and current MLS defender to start new position on January 1. From MLSnet: Back to school for Fire's Prideaux: Veteran defender announces decision to coach his alma mater.

Jun 10 - Announced today by Sounders FC: Sounders FC signs local product Lamar Neagle. Neagle is a 5-11, 165 lb. midfielder from Federal Way who just finished his college play at University of Nevada Las Vegas. Neagle spent time in preseason camp and had been training with the team of late. With three players on the disabled list, the Sounders don't have to cut anyone yet.

From MLSnet: Sounders FC seeing flurry of red: Handful of recent red cards have hamstrung Seattle.

From the Times: Let the Heritage Cup competition begin: Earthquakes and Sounders meet in inaugural "Heritage Cup" match June 13 at Qwest Field.

Jun 9 - Kent native and ex-Sounder Cam Weaver was expected to return home with the San Jose Earthquakes for a match this weekend, but his return has been postponed because he was just traded to the Houston Dynamo: Quakes acquire Wondolowski from Dynamo: San Jose trades forward Weaver for California native, draft pick.

Another local native and ex-Sounder, Brandon Prideaux, just announced his retirement from the Chicago Fire: Prideaux to retire following 2009 MLS season: Prideaux to end a 12-year professional playing career after current season.

From the Seattle Times: Michael Fucito returns to Sounders FC with Harvard degree. From the News Tribune: Harvard degree not a bad fall-back for new Sounders midfielder: After graduating last week, rookie midfielder Fucito embarks on career in pro soccer.

The club blog notes that Jarrod Smith played 55 minutes for New Zealand in a 0-0 draw with Botswana last weekend: Jarrod Smith - world traveller.

Jun 8 - The Tacoma News Tribune has a spot-on analysis of what ails the Sounders FC: Fouling and whining taint that fuzzy Sounders start.

Jun 6 - Chivas USA 1 - 0 Seattle Sounders FC (Lillingston 38). The Sounders outshot Chivas but couldn't find the net. More suspensions for next week, as Nate Jaqua got a yellow-red at the end of the match and Jhon Kennedy Hurtado got his fifth yellow.

Jun 5 - From the Sounders FC: Making changes.

From the Hong Kong Apple Daily (translated): Seattle Sounders shine in MLS.

Jun 4 - From MLSnet: Sounders FC missing Alonso in midfield: Seattle having trouble on defense without injured midfielder.

From the Times: Sounders FC's Nate Jaqua has found his groove. From the Everett Herald: Jaqua is Sounders' Mister Reliable.

Jun 3 - From the Seattle Times: Why is Sounders FC so good in its first year?

From Prost Amerika: The bizarre story of Taylor Graham's international career.

Jun 2 - An interview from Seattle Sounders Offside: Jhon Kennedy Hurtado loves Seattle.

Jun 1 - From Seattle Times' Steve Kelley: Nothing less than full speed ahead for ageless Sounders FC goalkeeper Kasey Keller.

May 31 - Jarrod Smith flies out today to join the New Zealand national team for the FIFA Confederations Cup. Smith has not yet played for the Sounders due to injury. Now on the disabled list is Taylor Graham with a broken foot.

May 30 - Seattle Sounders FC 1 - 1 Columbus Crew (Jaqua 58; Moreno 12). The Sounders won't feel good about this draw, their fifth in a row in league play. Freddie Ljungberg missed the goal on a penalty kick and Tyrone Marshall drew a red card two minutes into added time.

May 29 - Taylor Graham is still having problems with his foot, but his humor is intact. He posted an interview of some of his teammates, picking on them at every opportunity: Nine questions.

From the P-I: Sounders GM fires back at Colorado coach. Hanauer was responding to comments from Gary Smith: Colorado coach miffed at Sounders' playing facility. Smith in particular complained that the Starfire pitch was too small, but it is 70 by 110 yards according to Hanauer. For international matches FIFA requires 70-80 wide by 110-120 long, so the Starfire pitch meets those requirements. According to Hanauer, Qwest is 74 by 114.

From the fan's perspective, from Seattle Soccer Examiner: Hatred of Sounders helps their legend grow at warp speed.

May 26 - US Open Cup Qualifier: Seattle Sounders FC 1 - 0 Colorado Rapids (Forrest 61). Kevin Forrest's flying header was the difference as the Sounders FC qualified for the US Open Cup proper with a win over the visiting Rapids in a hard fought match. It was Forrest's first minutes in competition for Sounders FC.

Unfortunately, Taylor Graham has broken his right foot. From the club: Injury report.

From MLSnet: Ljungberg resumes training with Seattle: Sounders FC designated player recovering from migraine attack.

From the Seattle Times: Sounders FC's Freddie Ljungberg says migraine appears to be easing. Mentioned is that Jarrod Smith has been called up to the New Zealand national team and will fly out on Sunday.

From Goal.com: You asked? Seattle Sounders' Keller answers, part II.

May 25 - From the News Tribune: Expansion success continues for Sounders: One-third of the way through MLS season, FC Sounders still on pace for best record by an expansion franchise.

May 23 - Colorado Rapids 2 - 2 Seattle Sounders FC (Clark 25, Casey 47; Montero 17, Jaqua 76). The Sounders came from behind to earn a draw on the road. Fredy Montero returned to form with a nice goal and a nice assist. James Riley's crosses set up both goals. This draw, the Sounders' fourth in a row, is one you can feel good about.

May 22 - From MLSnet: Evans' versatility helping Sounders FC: Expansion Seattle using midfielder all over the pitch.

From the Seattle Times: Sounders FC's Chris Henderson can call Seattle, Colorado home.

From Goal.com: Quick kicks: Seattle Sounders FC forward Nate Jaqua.

From the Denver Post: Owners, players, fans make Seattle a sound organization.

May 19 - From the News Tribune, on Osvaldo Alonso: Sounder goes from Cuba to Seattle . . . through Wal-Mart.

May 18 - From the Times: Patrick Ianni, Tyson Wahl finally play for Sounders.

May 16 - FC Dallas 1 - 1 Seattle Sounders FC (Rocha 45; Hurtado 18). It seemed like Dallas were ripe for the taking, but after a 1-0 lead the Sounders failed to find a second goal.

From the Everett Herald: Sounders' Dragavon a traveling goalie.

The Sounders reported today that Chris Eylander has been placed on the disabled list and will be out six matches.

May 15 - Ex-Sounder and Bellevue native Marcus Hahnemann has been released by Reading FC, where he played in 302 matches from 2001 to present.

From the Everett Herald, on flyin' Hawaiian Zach Scott: Sounders FC defender has plenty to smile about.

From Sounders FC, focusing on the back line: Stepping up.

From the Times, on FC Dallas rookie George John: Shoreline native faces Sounders FC this week.

From the News Tribune: Sounders deal with foul issue: Montero, Ljungberg adjusting to physical MLS approach.

From Soccer By Ives: The MLS Quarter Pole: Who is on the MLS Best XI? Ives picked three Sounders, Kasey Keller, Jhon Kennedy Hurtado and Osvaldo Alonso.

May 14 - This week's Referee Week in Review from US Soccer has been posted, and as expected it covers the SEA-LA melee: 2009 Referee Week in Review - Week 8. They agreed with the cards that were issued, but say that the defender who grabbed the ball to delay the free kick should be been cautioned. They also suggest that the referee should intervene more quickly to help avoid a mass confrontation.

From MLSnet: Le Toux making most of opportunities: Seattle striker has made impact after being removed from starting lineup.

May 13 - From the Seattle Times: Sounders FC's Montero takes a break to go home.

May 12 - In what amounts to an admission that Tim Weyland's performance as a referee on Mothers' Day was subpar, an MLS executive VP issued a statement that Weyland's performance is being reviewed by US Soccer. From the Times: Official under fire is now under review.

From the News Tribune: Sounders coach, general manager rip MLS refereeing, and Boling: Pugnacious Schmid bonus for Sounders.

The Sounders are opening up the seats in the South end of the lower bowl that have been covered with tarps for all but the opener. From the P-I: Sounders to open up additional seating at Qwest. From the Times: Sounders FC will make more seats available at Qwest.

May 11 - Seattle Times columnist Steve Kelley lambastes referee Tim Weyland with eloquence: Seeing the ugly side of the beautiful game.

From the P-I, day-after quotes from the skipper: Sigi not sorry about referee remarks.

From the Sounders FC blog: Hanauer on officiating - "Rest assured that we are going to get involved."

From the 90th Minute Soccer Blog: Major League Soccer: Attendance down, NY, KC, and Dallas averaging under 10,000.

May 10 - Seattle Sounders FC 1 - 1 Los Angeles Galaxy (Le Toux 22; Gordon 36). The Sounders hurt their chances with yet another red card, this one to defender James Riley for retaliation.

May 8 - B is for Barcelona. Confirming rumors that have been around all year, the Sounders FC today announced that FC Barcelona will play a friendly with the Seattle Sounders FC. The match will take place Wed Aug 5 at Qwest Field. Sounders season ticket holders already have a ticket in their package. The tickets for matches A, B, and C will be for Chelsea, Barcelona, and the MLS Championship Match, respectively. The prospect of both Chelsea and Barcelona is made all the more interesting because of this week's Chelsea-Barcelona semifinal match in the UEFA Champion's League, which Barça won with a short-handed away goal deep into added time. The announcements:

• Sounders FC: Rumors of Barcelona
• MLS: FC Barcelona to face Sounders FC, Galaxy on U.S. tour: Legendary Spanish club returns to States with roster of international superstars
• FC Barcelona: United States west coast tour 2009
• Seattle Times: Sounders will play FC Barcelona at Qwest
• Tacoma News Tribune: Friendly with Barcelona set for Qwest
• Soccer By Ives: FC Barcelona to face LA Galaxy and Seattle Sounders
• Goal.com: Barcelona announce United States pre-season tour
• Everett Herald: Sounders FC to host FC Barcelona
• Seattle Times: Sounders FC welcomes international competition

Sounder at Heart interviews ex-Husky and Sounders FC trialist Ely Allen: Galaxy starter, Sounders trialist Ely Allen.

Prost Amerika has a translation of a La Raza del Noroeste interview: Difficult times: Fredy Montero keeps his head up at a time of adversity.

May 7 - From the Seattle Times: Osvaldo Alonso has been a great find for Sounders FC.

From MLSnet: Schmid unhappy with embellishment: Sounders FC head coach disturbed by overdramatization of fouls.

May 6 - From the Seattle Times: Sounders FC's Fredy Montero is ready to play the role as a fan this week. Good quotes from Montero, telling his side of the red-card story. Apparently Montero has never before been red-carded in his professional career.

From Goal.com: The short list: Most valuable to their team. Kasey Keller is on the list.

Kasey Keller has a new blog up, courtesy of The End 107.7 FM, where he has made some guest appearances on recent mornings: Kasey's Last Line.

From the East London Advertiser: Ljungberg in Hammers injury revelation.

From Sounders sponsor PEMCO: PEMCO reveals Northwest Profile #26: 'I know I am, I'm sure I am Sounders FC Fan'.

May 4 - This has to be the best Sounders piece we've read all year, from Seattle Sounders Offside: Sigi finally gets the Freds to play together, and here's how it happens.

May 2 - Chicago Fire 1 - 1 Seattle Sounders FC (Pappa 68; Marshall 71). The defense earned this road point. Sweeper Tyrone Marshall scored the tying goal from a corner kick while the Sounders were a man short due to a Fredy Montero red card for throwing an elbow at the start of the second half.

From Next Season Sports: Conversation with former NASL Sounders gaffer, Alan Hinton.

May 1 - US Soccer has finally posted the 2009 US Open Cup format: 2009 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup structure finalized.

Apr 30 - From Sounder at Heart: Asst Coach Ezra Hendrickson on Tactics in MLS.

From FOX Sports: Top five MLS rookie performers. Steve Zakuani is on that list, of course.

From the Vancouver Province, an update on the Parke saga: Waiting the hardest part: Jeff Parke finally can play after sitting out suspension over supplement.

Apr 29 - USOpenCup.com has a MLS qualifying bracket that ends with two of eight teams qualifying for the Open Cup proper. Those two will join the six teams with the most points from the 2008 MLS regular season, who automatically qualified for the tournament.

From MLSnet: Teen's dream: Brown taking attention in stride: Song from Argentinean fan serves as locker room fodder for Sounders FC.

Apr 28 - US Open Cup Qualifier: Seattle Sounders FC 4 - 1 Real Salt Lake (Le Toux 24, Nyassi 26, King 53, Le Toux 55; Johnson 32). Thanks to an offensive explosion, the Sounders advance to take on the Colorado Rapids in the second qualifier.

Apr 27 - From the Times: Sounders FC's Sebastien Le Toux adjusts to new role off bench.

From Sounder at Heart: Steve Zakuani: "No first team, no second team, just Sounders."

Sports Illustrated: Seattle keeper Kasey Keller chats about coming home, future of MLS.

Apr 25 - Seattle Sounders FC 2 - 0 San Jose Earthquakes (Zakuani 42, Evans 49). The wingers score to return Seattle to winning ways.

Apr 23 - From MLSnet: Seattle's 'Freds' struggling to find cohesion: Ljungberg, Montero having difficulty connecting in Sounders FC attack.

Apr 22 - From MLSnet: Zakuani still adjusting to midfield role: Schmid impressed with rookie's attacking skills, wants improvement on defense.

From Sounders FC: Midfield shake down.

Goal.com: Alan Hinton talks soccer.

Another from Goal.com: Canales daily: First impressions of Freddie.

Apr 21 - From the News Tribune: Brad Evans talks midfield ... and eye candy. We've been resisting the urge to post on the "eye candy" story, but the quotes Don Ruis got out of Evans are too good.

Apr 20 - From Goal.com: Montero already has eyes abroad.

From the Times: Sounders FC midfielder Freddie Ljungberg remains media darling.

From FIFA.com: Schmid's soaraway Sounders.

Apr 18 - Chivas USA 2 - 0 Seattle Sounders FC (Own goal 32, Chijindu 84). The Chivas defense shut down the Sounders in LA.

Apr 16 - From MLSnet: Unheralded Scott earning keep in Seattle: Little-known defender taking advantage of opportunity, sticking in lineup.

Apr 15 - From the P-I: Go 2 guy: Ljungberg quietly lives international playboy lifestyle.

Apr 14 - The Times reports that Fredy Montero will not be charged: Prosecutor finds insufficient evidence to charge soccer star Montero. We have been anticipating that outcome to the accusations reported originally by the Pee-Eye.

Apr 12 - From the New York Times: 30 seconds with Kasey Keller: A world traveler comes full circle.

Apr 11 - Seattle Sounders FC 0 - 1 Kansas City Wizards (Davy Arnaud 80). A red card to Kasey Keller in the first half put Seattle at a disadvantage, and Kansas City capitalized. The scoreless MLS start for the Sounders lasted 349 minutes.

Apr 10 - From the News Tribune: Are YOU part of the sellout? With their first five games sold out, expansion Sounders are envy of MLS.

From the P-I: Keller: Qwest as World Cup host is 'no brainer'.

Apr 9 - From Times columnist Steve Kelley: Soccer, the beautiful game, is hip in Northwest.

Apr 8 - MLSnet on the Sounders FC defense: Sounders backline yet to allow goal: Seattle has dazzled with offense, dominated with defense.

Goal.com focuses on Kevin Calabro: Seattle basketball broadcasting icon switches to soccer.

Apr 7 - The News Tribune speculates: Yes, the Sounders could win MLS Cup.

From the University of Akron Buchtelite: Former Zip Zakuani finding his way in MLS.

The New York Times blog has interesting details on the Jeff Parke saga: Vancouver does Parke a solid. It seems that when the Vancouver Whitecaps signed Parke, they thought his MLS suspension wouldn't apply to a Canadian team. It apparently does. The Whitecaps announced that they will honor the remaining four matches of the suspension: Parke to miss start of USL-1 season.

Apr 6 - The soccer pundits raised questions about Seattle's defense before the season started. Now they are singing praise. From Goal.com's Kyle McCarthy: Monday MLS breakdown: Sound(ers) defense.

A new blog piece from Taylor Graham: April fools.

A good read from CBC Sports: Ljungberg adapting to life in MLS.

From the Everett Herald: Road to Sounders has been bumpy one for Forrest.

Soccer America's Ridge Mahoney looks at the history of expansion teams: History puts 'expansion' label in perspective.

A Toronto Sun article reports on the outcome of a beer thrown at Drew Carey at Saturday's match: Carver needs to change TFC's system.

From the Seattle Times: Agent defends Sounders FC soccer star Fredy Montero. The article includes a quote from general manager Adrian Hanauer with advice to "have faith in our system of law and to allow due process." As fans, we hope to see Montero back on the pitch in Saturday's match. After all, his picture is on this week's match ticket.

Apr 5 - The Seattle Times blog posted a link to a song written and performed by a Seattle fan: A tribute to Evan Brown.

The News Tribune reports on Sanna Nyassi and the Sounders' Nothing But Nets humanitarian program: Sounder wants to beat malaria.

The truth about allegations against Fredy Montero is starting to emerge. The Times blog has a translation of an article from Colombia: Montero fell into a trap, agents says - en español. The Colombian article, en español: Fredy Montero cayó en una trampa, asegura representante del futbolista colombiano. Our suggestion for Fredy: check with the other Freddie on how to deal with the women. The team captain supports Montero: Sounders FC goalie Kasey Keller says team stands behind Fredy Montero. A News Tribune editor explains the process by which they decided how to handle the situation: A mere accusation doesn't mean an allegation is true.

Apr 4 - Toronto FC 0 - 2 Seattle Sounders FC (Ljungberg 15, Zakuani 45). In their first road match, the Seattle Sounders silenced Toronto FC and their fans with goals from designated player Freddie Ljungberg and #1 draft choice Steve Zakuani.

Apr 3 - The P-I has shocking new news on Fredy Montero: Sources: Sounders' Montero subject of police investigation. A woman has complained to police that Montero sexually assaulted her on Mar 22 and in another complaint that he was stalking her on Mar 31. There have been no charges at this time. The article indicates that investigation of the first complaint is continuing, while investigation of the second concluded that no crime was committed. An update shortly before noon explains that the alleged stalking was purely coincidental. Montero had been in the area with his host family to attend a high school soccer match -- the family's son plays on the team. The assault investigation has been sent to the King County prosecutor's office for review. No word yet on whether or not charges will be filed. Details: Montero allegations sent to prosecutors for review. This update from the Seattle Times: Sounders FC star Montero investigated in sexual-assault case. Apparently the family of the woman that filed the complaint took it to the media. Another update from the Times: Sounders FC's Montero under investigation.

Apr 2 - Soccer By Ives has posted the CONCACAF Gold Cup schedule: CONCACAF Gold Cup groups and schedule announced: USA to face Honduras, Haiti and Grenada. On the Fourth of July Qwest Field will host a double header with Honduras vs. Haiti at 4:00 and USA vs. Grenada at 6:00. Here is the CONCACAF news release: Costa Rica to face El Salvador on opening night of Gold Cup.

From the News Tribune: Montero makes it happen for Sounders: Colombian's scoring creates big splash with soccer fans in Seattle.

From the Times: Marshall adds talent, leadership to Sounders FC.

From MLSnet.com: 'Three Amigos' form Seattle's backbone: Montero, Hurtado, Alonso impressive in first two Sounders FC matches.

Apr 1 - From Goal.com: The Kelly Gray Column: The State Of Major League Soccer.

From the New York Times: New soccer team stokes Seattle's passion.

Mar 31 - Jeff Parke has signed with the Vancouver Whitecaps after the expansion draft choice could not reach an agreement with Sounders FC: Whitecaps acquire MLS defender.

Soccer America looks at attendance woes in the MLS: Expansion shrouds teams in trouble.

Mar 30 - Soccer By Ives: Expansion Sounders off to dream start.

From Prost Amerika: 15/30 interview - Steve Zakuani.

From the P-I: Everything's gone right so far for Sounders. From the Times: Sounders FC one of only two perfect teams in MLS.

It appears that Jeff Parke is going to sign with the Vancouver Whitecaps and play for a couple of months until European transfer windows open up again. From the Province: Parke deepens defence: Veteran MLS D-man leaves Seattle, set to sign here.

Mar 28 - Seattle Sounders FC 2 - 0 Real Salt Lake (Jaqua 17, Montero 77). Sounders are real. Nate Jaqua is a real nemesis for Salt Lake, making it six goals in six matches against them. Salt Lake seemed to have the better second half, but only Fredy Montero managed a goal, and a brilliant goal it was.

Mar 27 - The latest in the Jeff Parke saga is reported by the Times blog: Parke, team part ways. Let's hope the team gets good value for Parke by trading his rights elsewhere in the league. From the News Tribune blog: Saturday tickets gone ... and so is Jeff Parke. Soccer By Ives reports that Parke will train with the Whitecaps now: Parke leaves Seattle, will train with Vancouver as Sounders shop his rights. After today's practice, the Times blog posted Sigi Schmid's comments regarding Parke: Schmid on Parke.

Mar 26 - The Seattle Times with some quotes from the Player of the Week: Sounders FC star Fredy Montero happy to be playing in Seattle.

Mar 25 - A nice article from a local writer at the Crosscut: The Sounders: full of talent and high ambition.

From the Seattle Times, on the Don Garber talk with media: Sounders FC fans' passion bowls over commissioner. From the TNT: Northwest basks in spotlight.

Matt Gaschk focuses on the defense from the first match: Defense off to a strong start.

Mar 24 - The Sounders FC today announced that Kevin Forrest, from Edmonds and the University of Washington, has been signed to a senior developmental roster spot. Forrest played the latter part of last season for the Sounders. His MLS rights were just waived by the Colorado Rapids, and the Sounders picked him up.

From MLSnet, a look at the whole MLS weekend features Sounders FC: Week in Review: Seattle slew: Newest MLS club announces presence with authority in debut match.

From the Times: Jeff Parke finally comes home to Sounders FC. From the club, a video with Matt Gaschk interviewing Jeff Parke and getting comments from the head coach: The new centerback at practice. More on Parke from the NY Daily News: Ex-Red Bull Jeff Parke feels maligned on steroid ban.

Jarrod Smith, on the Sounders' disabled list, has joined the New Zealand national team for a couple of friendlies: New Zealand bound.

From MLSnet: Ljungberg ready for Seattle debut: Sounders Designated Player set to return from hip surgery.

From the Times blog: Quotes from Sigi Schmid, 3-24-09. The coach has instructions for us fans.

More praise of Seattle, from a Bleacher Report writer: Spectacle in Seattle gives hope to US Soccer.

From Soccer America, on MLS expansion: Don Garber: 'We're a long-term play.'

From the Chicago Tribune blog, The Red Card: Garber: Seattle game 'brought tears of joy to my eyes'.

Mar 23 - Worth a read is Ives Galarcep's report after spending four days in Seattle: MMCB: Discovering the Pacific Northwest and why it's perfect for MLS.

Mar 22 - The News Tribune's John McGrath looks at the three-way local rivalry: Qwest-quake - and surrounding events - shake up MLS.

Seattle Soccer Examiner put together a great story from opening night: Getting Fredy Montero's match-worn jersey latest thrill for Sounders' fan.

Report from a fan, posted at Next Season Sports: A night to remember.

Mar 21 - From the Seattle Times: Sounders FC's Schmid has another celebration. From the P-I: Sounders got off on right foot at every level.

Ives Galarcap has the scoop on unsigned Sounders expansion draft choice Jeff Parke: Parke speaks out (Part 1), and (Part 2).

Sweden's Aftonbladet published a fresh interview of Freddie Ljungberg, translated by a local Swede here.

Tony Ventrella reports on yesterday's prematch march: A whole new ball game.

Portland and Vancouver MLS expansion news, with Portland being announced today:

• MLS: MLS awards 18th franchise to Portland: Commissioner Garber announces further Pacific Northwest expansion
• The Province: Neighbours throwing out welcome mat: Excitement building for MLS rivalry with Whitecaps
• Soccer America: Aggressive expansion is risky, but shrewd
• Montreal Gazette: Whitecaps' admission to MLS buoys Impact: Montreal next? 'We should be there, too,' De Santis says
• Vancouver Whitecaps: Vancouver salutes victorious Sounders
• Soccer By Ives: Portland awarded 18th MLS Franchise
• Soccer By Ives: Garber: 20 MLS teams by 2012 is NOT a lock
• MLSnet: Five-a-side: What's hot around the league: New MLS franchises in Vancouver, Portland should thrive in Pacific Northwest
• USL, with stiff upper lip: USL statements regarding Portland & Vancouver MLS expansion
• ESPNsoccernet: Portland carries a steep tradition of soccer from its NASL days

Mar 19 - MLS season opener: Seattle Sounders FC 3 - 0 New York Red Bulls (Montero 12, Evans 25, Montero 75). The historic first Sounders MLS goal took only twelve minutes, with Osvaldo Alonso dishing a short pass to the arc for Sebastien Le Toux, who fed an open Fredy Montero for the strike to the lower far corner. Kasey Keller was called on for just two saves, both outstanding, en route to the first Sounders MLS shutout. The team deserve to be proud after giving the fans everything that could be hoped for in match one and then some.

In advance of the opener:

• Seattle Times: What to expect from Sounders FC
• Seattle Soccer Examiner: The history of the Sounders "Fight Song"
• Oregonian: Playoffs, not slow start, expectation for Sounders
• Seattle Times: Sounders FC ready for debut
• Bellingham Herald: Sounder set for kickoff
• Sounders FC: 2009 preview: The supporters
• Tacoma News Tribune: Sounders, Red Bulls herald new local soccer era
• Seattle P-I: Calabro ready to kick it with Sounders
• Seattle P-I: Fans ready to embrace Sounders at opener
• Seattle P-I's Art Thiel: Sounders, Huskies drag Seattle out of sports purgatory
• ESPN's Ives Galarcap: Sellout crowd ready to embrace Seattle's debut
• ESPN's Jimmy Conrad: Conrad's fail-safe predictions for the 2009 MLS season (be sure to read the prediction about coach Sigi Schmid)
• MLSnet: Challenges aside, Sounders FC ready: Injuries, nerves no barrier for excited Seattle club
• MLSnet: Scarves play big role in Seattle debut: From brandishing colors to ticketing, a fan initiative
• Expansion Sounders optimistic about success
• Seattle Times: Sounders FC to support global health partnership
• MSNBC: Sounders FC soccer excitement sweeps Northwest

Mar 18 - Today's news:

• Seattle Times: Sounders FC debut kicks off project for aid to African kids, called Save the Children
• USA Today: No joke, Seattle soccer fans get big chance to sound off
• Seattle Times: Sounders FC has made all the right moves
• MLSnet: Excitement surrounds Seattle's first season: Sounders FC look to become first expansion team to reach playoffs since 1998
• MLSnet: Seattle Sounders FC: Timeline
• GOAL.com: Predictions 2009: Goal.com Calls The MLS Season
• The Beautiful Game in the Emerald City: The 2009 season in review - 6th place (picks Seattle to finish 6th of 8 in the West)
• Tacoma News Tribune: Region had lots of soccer history before Sounders FC
• Sounders FC: 2009 preview: The owners
• Seattle Times: Meet the Sounders
• MLSnet: Long history leads to Sounders FC: From NASL to USL to MLS, Seattle soccer has deep roots
• MLSnet: West notes: All MLS eyes on Seattle: Sounders debut puts Emerald City in spotlight
• Danny Jackson reports to Prost Amerika on the 2008 Sounders that made the MLS roster: Their former captain wishes the magnificent six well
• Soccer365: Soccer365's 2009 MLS first glance west (picks Seattle last in the West)
• MLSnet: Osorio confident Red Bulls have improved: Coach expects club to make statement in season opener vs. Seattle
• Yahoo! Sports: Playing the MLS guessing game (picks Seattle to finish last)
• Salt Lake Tribune: Sounders' debut is biggest story of season

On MLS expansion to Vancouver BC (announced today) and Portland (will be announced Friday):

• Portland Business Journal: Report: Timbers, MLS set announcement (yes, it appears that Portland will enter MLS with Vancouver in 2011, bringing back the three-way Cascadia Cup whether Drew Carey likes it or not)
• The official announcement from MLS: MLS awards Vancouver team for 2011: League's 17th team to play in newly-renovated BC Place
• Vancouver MLS web site: VancouverMLS.com
• USL: USL statement regarding Vancouver MLS expansion
• Soccer By Ives: Garber: MLS to expand to 20 teams by 2012 (Sounders FC are the first of what will be six expansion franchises in four years)
• Vancouver Sun: It's official: Whitecaps joining MLS in 2011
• ESPN Soccernet: Vancouver awarded MLS franchise
• Oregonian: MLS appears headed to Portland
• Vancouver Sun: Whitecaps' all-star cast of owners seal the deal
• ESPN Soccernet: Vancouver enters fray as immediate rival to Seattle and Toronto

Mar 17 - Vancouver Whitecaps chip in: The Vancouver investment team will announce a 2011 MLS expansion franchise tomorrow, according to the Vancouver Sun: Vancouver Whitecaps to announce they will join MLS in 2011.

Praise from Soccer America: MLS ready for a smash in Seattle.

From Sounders FC: 2009 preview: The players.

From the News Tribune: Keller, Eylander make Sounders solid in the net.

Seattle Soccer Examiner's third of three: Seattle Sounders FC season preview: Act III.

Soccer By Ives reports on some rhetoric from Sounders co-owner Drew Carey: Carey sounds off on Seattle, Galaxy and opening game. Ives' preseason picks for best XI include Kasey Keller in the first XI, Fredy Montero in the second XI, and ex-Sounder Brian Ching in the third XI: SBI MLS Pre-season Best XI.

Mar 16 - The club finally announces it after league clearance: Sounders FC signs Roger Levesque and Zach Scott.

Well, well, well. Jeff Parke is headed back to MLS after cutting short his trial in Belgium at RAEC Mons, according to Soccer365: Parke cuts Mons trial short. Although without an MLS contract, Parke's MLS rights are held by Sounders FC.

The News Tribune has an in-depth story on coach Sigi Schmid: An All-American soccer success story.

Soccer By Ives posted their first power rankings of the year, putting Sounders FC ninth out of 15: SBI MLS power rankings.

From the club, a look at all of the coaches: 2009 preview: The coaches.

Sounders preview from MLSnet.com: Preview quick hits: Sounders FC. And a comprehensive update from the team: Sounders FC news & notes -- March 16.

From the Everett Herald: Excitement builds for Sounders soccer.

From the Oregonian: Former Portland stars Keller and Jaqua ready for Sounders' debut.

From Seattle Soccer Examiner: Seattle Sounders FC season preview: Act II.

Mar 15 - The News Tribune has a 2009 MLS preview and a look at Sounders history: Name dates to '74, but Sounders of MLS offer new, faster game.

Seattle Soccer Examiner's Sounders forecast: Seattle Sounders FC season preview: Act I.

Mar 13 - From FOX Sports: Kasey Keller back home in Seattle to finish career.

We have a flyin' Hawaiian. The Maui News reports the signing of longtime Sounders defender Zach Scott: Maui High grad Scott signs with Sounders.

Soccer By Ives posted a list titled 2009 SBI MLS best XI international newcomers. Ives was generous to Seattle, putting Fredy Montero, Sanna Nyassi, Freddie Ljungberg, Osvaldo Alonso, and Jhon Kennedy Hurtado on the list.

The New York Times blog interviews the MLS commish regarding Qwest Field and league expansion: Q & A with M.L.S. commissioner Don Garber.

Mar 12 - Preseason: Sounders FC 0 - 1 Colorado Rapids (Casey 38). The lone goal came from a penalty kick.

Kurt Schmid, son of the head coach, has been hired by Sounders FC as a scout and assistant coach.

Mar 11 - MLS and Sounders FC now confirm it: Qwest Field to host league's 14th Championship Match on Sunday, November 22. The 21,000 season ticket holders are already holding a ticket (Game C) to the final. For comments from fans across the league, see Soccer By Ives: 2009 MLS Cup awarded to Seattle. From the Seattle Times: Seattle awarded 2009 MLS Cup.

From the club, on tomorrow's training match: Technical rehearsal.

The Times blog says that two more Seattle neighborhoods will be adorned with scarves on Friday: Another "scarf blast". It was Fremont/Ballard and West Seattle the first time.

Sounders FC focus on Steve Zakuani and Freddie Ljungberg: Gunners United.

From MLSnet: Ljungberg joins Seattle training session: Rehabbing designated player impressed with teammates' focus. At the end, Ljungberg speculates on what position he will play.

Mar 10 - Camp updates from the Seattle Times: Freddie Ljungberg likely to miss opener and possibly more, and Schmid close to setting starting lineup. On the Open Cup: Making sense of the U.S. Open Cup.

Trialist goalkeepers Ben Dragavon and Jordan Jennings are back in camp. Most MLS teams carry three 'keepers on their roster, and Sounders FC currently have just Kasey Keller and Chris Eylander.

Mar 9 - Sounders FC posted the happy news that on July 4 Qwest Field will host a doubleheader in the first round of the CONCACAF Gold Cup: Gold Cup Coming to Qwest. Note to US Soccer: We Seattle fans would sure appreciate a World Cup qualifier, too.

Club reports have the latest changes to the camp roster: Sounders FC return to Qwest, and Comings and goings. Gone after the Argentina training are Jeff Clark (F), Ryan Caugherty (M), Mike Fucito (F/M), Jared Karkas (D) and Evan Bush (G). Rejoining camp is 2008 Sounder Kevin Forrest (F). New trialists are Mike Randolph (D, cut by Los Angeles last week) and Tom Taiwo (M, from England). Injured players under contract but in camp for the first time are midfielders Peter Vagenas and Freddie Ljungberg.

The News Tribune blog looks at Freddie Ljungberg's first training day with the team: Ljungberg works with Sounders for first time.

Mar 8 - The Sounders FC front office has reportedly told a reporter that Seattle will indeed host the MLS Cup final this season. From KING 5: Seattle to host 2009 MLS Cup.

The MLS Players Union has updated their list of player salaries: 2009 MLS player salaries: March 2, 2009: by club. Seattle players range from $34k to $1.3M, the latter for the designated player, of course.

Mar 6 - From the club: The Sounders FC and Ljungberg return to Seattle.

From the News Tribune: Sounders gear up for opener.

GOAL.com's preview of the Sounders FC: MLS 2009 Team Preview: Seattle Sounders.

Mar 5 - Preseason: River Plate 1 - 0 Sounders FC (Lizio 84). Sounders FC shut out for the first time.

Freddie Ljungberg is due back in Seattle tomorrow after rehab following hip surgery: Welcome home Freddie.

Temporarily freeing up a roster spot for another forward, the club announced that expansion draftee Jarrod Smith has been placed on injured reserve due to a hip flexor: Forward Jarrod Smith placed on injured reserve.

From the Examiner: Watch out for Wexley: Sounders stuff around Seattle. A thousand scarves were distributed around Seattle today!

The club has put up a Scarf Seattle page, where fans are invited to send in Scarf Seattle pictures.

From GOALSeattle: Seattle: sleeping 'soccer giant' reawakens.

Another Jeff Parke update, from Soccer365: Parke on to Mons trial. After failing his tryout at Anderlecht, Parke is beginning a tryout with RAEC Mons in Belgium.

Mar 4 - Sounders FC arranged another training match for today, but again they were rained out in Argentina. They had hoped to play Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata of the Argentine Primera División.

Jeff Parke update from Yanks Abroad: Anderlecht nearing Parke decision. "No decision on him has been made." We suspect that if Parke fails to get a contract with Belgium, he will be interested in returning to MLS, but not to Seattle. In which case Sounders FC could trade his rights.

Mar 3 - Training match: Tristán Suárez 0 - 5 Sounders FC (Fucito 25, Montero 33, Evans 38, Scott 43, Le Toux 89). A 90-minute training match against an Argentine Primera B Metropolitana side.

Kevin Sakuda, recently cut from Sounders FC camp, has signed with the Montreal Impact.

From Soccer America: Seattle opener sold out. Good quotes from Joe Roth in this one.

Mar 2 - Camp update from the team, posted by the Times blog: No game vs. Velez Sarsfield.

The New York Times soccer blog features Sebastien Le Toux: New hope in Pacific Northwest.

Ticket update from Sounders FC: Sounders FC sells out home opener. The update says that seating capacity has been opened up to 27.7k for regular season matches and 32.4k for the season opener. Season ticket sales will be capped at 22k, meaning that fewer than 1000 are left.

Today's scheduled training match with Vélez Sársfield was cancelled due to heavy rain and standing water on the pitch. Tomorrow's opponent has been changed from Argentinos Juniors to Tristán Suárez from the Primera B Metropolitana league.

Kyle McCarthy at GOAL.com wonders how the Sounders ticket success will affect the rest of the league: Monday MLS breakdown: Too much of a good thing? His article also notes that today's roster trimming deadline really only applies to players under contract. Sounders FC currently have only 19 players under contract, plus the two Colombians who are waiting for international clearance and P-1 work visas. So they really aren't obligated to cut anybody today.

Mar 1 - From Soccer America: Sounders Mania - Back To The Northwest.

From Examiner: 2009 season preview: Seattle Sounders FC. Also: Qwest Field: In search of a soccer identity.

Feb 28 - Training match: CED 1 - 1 Sounders FC (Unidentified 53; Ferreira 43). A 70-minute training match against a team of free agents. Goal by Diego Ferreira, a trialist Argentinean midfielder, 23 years old. Also getting minutes was newcomer Ely Allen, the ex-Husky from Kent who was cut by the LA Galaxy earlier this week.

Feb 27 - Training match: Estudiantes de La Plata 1 - 3 Sounders FC (Own goal 20; Jaqua 46, Montero 54, 58). In this 70-minute training match, Estudiantes played a combination of first team reserves and youth players.

Bad news from the Times: Sounders FC's Taylor Graham sidelined by broken bone in foot.

From the Puget Sound Business Journal: Soccer's new Seattle Sounders outpace M's in season ticket sales.

Feb 26 - From the Times: Finally, Sounders FC arrives in Argentina: After 14 hours of flying, Sounders FC lands in Buenos Aires, prepares to play five exhibitions.

The club reports on day 2, with focus on the arrival of Jhon Kennedy Hurtado: Argentina day 2. The Times blog says team training staff diagnosed Taylor Graham with a broken foot, so expect him on the disabled list to start the season: Taylor Graham has a broken foot.

Season ticket sales are now north of 20,500, so there really aren't many available for walkups. The team announced that they will open additional end zone sections for the opener, allowing an attendance of 27 kbutts, but they are sticking with lower bowl only for the rest of the league matches, limiting attendance to 24.5 kbutts. The stadium holds 67 kbutts if the whole upper section is opened, but we're guessing that the team will limit seats and enjoy the "sellout" announcements. As noted in the Steve Kelley piece linked yesterday, the public reaction has been well beyond anything the team owners could have reasonably expected.

Feb 25 - Taylor Graham, nursing a sore foot, took time to write on the first day in Argentina: Greetings from Argentina!

From columnist Steve Kelley at the Times: Seattle embraces Sounders FC.

Steve Zakuani is planning to write a rookie diary for ESPNsoccernet. The first post is up: Adjusting to the pro lifestyle.

From the Harvard Crimson: Fucito Hopes To Make Noise with Seattle Sounders: Senior striker works toward MLS contract. Draft pick Michael Fucito is joning camp in Argentina after recovering from a hamstring injury.

Feb 24 - The Times blog has the latest camp roster changes. Out are Densill Theobald and 2008 Sounders Ben Dragavon and Kevin Forrest. In is goalkeeper Evan Bush from the University of Akron. Trialist defender Mandou Bojang is apparently not travelling to Argentina with the team.

Feb 23 - From the News Tribune: Sounders Argentina-bound after latest training victory.

Feb 22 - Preseason: Sounders FC 4 - 0 Vancouver Whitecaps (Jaqua 37, 39, Montero 66, 67). Nate Jaqua and Fredy Montero have clearly earned starting jobs at forward, and today they got used to scoring at Qwest Field.

Feb 20 - Preseason: University of Portland Pilots 1 - 4 Sounders FC (Emory 63; Jaqua 4, Clark 32, Montero 71, Evans 75).

The Seattle Times blog reports that Sounders SuperSearch winner Vini Oliveira has been cut from camp: Oliveira, SuperSearch winner, no longer with team.

A surge of season ticket orders has pushed the total past 20,000. Simply amazing.

Feb 19 - The roster evolves: Now signed is second-round draft pick Evan Brown, a defender. Joining camp is 2008 Sounder Kevin Forrest (F, MLS rights held by Colorado Rapids). Gone are Lamar Neagle (M, finishing academics) and Kyle Schmid (D).

From the Seattle Times: Sounders FC players get first taste of Qwest turf, and Sounders FC Q&A: Tyrone Marshall. From the Seattle P-I: Sounders test home turf: Colombian defender Hurtado latest to join evolving roster. From the Tacoma News Tribune: Qwest Field is pitch perfect for Sounders.

Feb 18 - The Sounders FC have signed 24-year-old defender Jhon Kennedy Hurtado from Colombia. Hurtado played in 2008 at Deportivo Cali with Fredy Montero. From the News Tribune blog: Sounders sign Columbian defender Hurtado. From the Times blog: Breaking news: Hurtado signs. From the club: Sounders FC Signs Colombian Defender Hurtado. In the USL years, Sounders fans were pleased to see the club sign players who didn't quite make an MLS roster. Now we get a player who didn't quite make the AC Milan roster.

From Sounders FC, focusing on new defender Tyrone Marshall: Defense not resting for Seattle.

From the P-I: Sounders FC to host English power Chelsea. Includes quotes from Adrian Hanauer about the state of the team.

Feb 17 - The Sounders FC announced a friendly against Chelsea: Sounders FC to Host Chelsea on July 18. Also from the club: SSFC Return To Seattle Amidst Buzz.

Feb 16 - Jose Romero at the Seattle Times has a roster analysis: A roster overview.

Feb 15 - From the News Tribune blog: SSFC returns to Northwest for week of training.

Feb 13 - Preseason: San Jose Earthquakes 3 - 2 Sounders FC (Johnson 7, 13, Amarikwa 46; Montero 11, 44). Sounders FC's first taste of defeat.

Feb 12 - The club confirmed the rumors: Sounders FC sends Khano Smith to New York. From the Times: Sounders FC trades Khano Smith to New York. From the PI: New York acquires Smith from Seattle. From GOAL.com: Red Bulls Boost Left Flank With Khano Smith. From the Times blog: Adios, Khano. From Bermuda's Royal Gazette: Khano: No hard feelings.

The Sounders FC blog looks at rekindling the rivalry with the Earthquakes, and it also has the latest cuts from camp: Sounders FC set to rekindle old rivalry. Cut were 2008 Sounders Danny Jackson, Leighton O'Brien, and Adam West, and trialists Kevin Guppy, Quavas Kirk, Ryan Pore, and Fernando Screpis. The Times blog has an analysis of the cuts: Roster trimmed down; Jackson, O'Brien let go.

Newly signed defender Tyrone Marshall played the full 90 for Jamaica as they played a friendly with Nigeria in London yesterday, ending 0-0.

Feb 11 - Preseason: Ventura County Fusion 1 - 6 Sounders FC (Aghasyan 13; Montero 7, Zakuani 9, 21, Jaqua 43, 44, Levesque 83). This was the Sounders FC's first preseason match open to the public, against a PDL side, and fans got to see a goal fest. The score is linked to a match report from a fan who attended.

Feb 10 - Second preseason training match: Sounders FC 2 - 0 Shandong Luneng (Nyassi 56, 75). Shandong Luneng is the Chinese Super League Champion. Over the two training matches, wing midfielder Sanna Nyassi scored 3 goals in 20 consecutive minutes on the pitch.

The club posted a comprehensive update on the preseason, talking about everything except Khano Smith: News & notes: 2/10/09. Regarding Smith, a report out of Bermuda says that he has flown to New York for a physical with the Red Bulls.

Acquired from Toronto FC for allocation money was 34-year-old defender Tyrone Marshall. Analysis by the Times blog: Looking inside the Marshall trade.

Feb 9 - First preseason training match: Los Angeles Galaxy 1 - 3 Sounders FC (Lewis 3; Montero 28, Levesque 84, Nyassi 90). Fredy Montero will go down in history as scoring the first Sounders FC goal, although it was just a training match. The goal was a penalty kick earned by Steve Zakuani. The entire starting eleven for both sides were replaced at halftime. Post-match notes from the Times blog: One last look at Monday's game.

Feb 6 - Camp report from the News Tribune blog: Sounders' Montero has seven-goal training day.

Feb 5 - From MLSnet.com: First XI: Taking down names: A look at players who could bring excitement in 2009. Included are new Sounder Nate Jaqua and ex-Sounder Maykel Galindo.

Feb 4 - Sounders camp moved to California. From the News Tribune blog: Wednesday report from California.

Feb 3 - The Seattle Times has good camp reports today: Sounders FC camp highlights, Day 10, and Sounders FC gets to work in California. The articles mention several new players in camp for a tryout. More camp news from the News Tribune blog: Sounders FC California roster, reaction.

From the News Tribune: Sounders off to California for phase two of preseason training. From the Ventura County Star: MLS teams arrive in county to train.

Soccer By Ives reports that the San Jose Earthquakes are bringing ex-Sounder Cam Weaver back from Norway, where he has been playing for Haugesund in the second division. A lot of Sounders fans would have liked to see Weaver returning to the Sounders, but at least we will get to see him for two league matches at Qwest.

Feb 1 - The Sounders SuperSearch final show aired today, broadcast live from the Starfire indoor pitches. The ten finalists were introduced, then the field was narrowed to four: Dallas Jaussi (by fan vote), Chase Mikkelsen, Vini Oliveira, and Junior Garcia. After some Jaussi and Oliveira vs. Mikkelsen and Garcia action, the judges (Adrian Hanauer, Sigi Schmid, and Chris Henderson) narrowed it down to Oliveira and Garcia. It was a treat to see the pair play 1 v 1, as both have the moves to take people on. The judges chose Brazilian-born Oliveira as the winner, no doubt partly due to his play in the 11 v 11 match the previous day. At 20 years old, Oliveira was the youngest of the ten finalists.

Jan 31 - Tryout match: Seattle Wolves 2 - 0 Sounders SuperSearch Finalists (Sturm 5, Rivela 32). Most impressive were the Wolves' Thiago Rivela (goal and assist) and SuperSearch finalist Vini Oliveira, who showed good skill taking on opponents and earning a few shots.

Jan 30 - Cut from camp were 2008 Sounders Kevin Sakuda (D/M), Hugo Alcaraz-Cuellar (M), Kenji Treschuk (D/M), Youssouf Kante (M), and John Fishbaugher (D/M). The cuts leave six 2008 Sounders still in camp in addition to the four that were already announced as having MLS contracts. Still unsigned but trying for a roster spot are Ben Dragavon (G), Danny Jackson (D), Zach Scott (D), Adam West (D), Leighton O'Brien (M), and Roger Levesque (F/M).

Jan 29 - Expansion draftee Peter Vagenas had his arthroscopic knee surgery and expects a quick recovery.

Jan 28 - MLS released the complete 2009 schedule. The season kicks off March 19 with New York Red Bulls at Seattle Sounders.

Unsigned expansion draftee Jeff Parke is unlikely, heading off to Belgium for tryouts.

Jan 27 - Sounders FC announced the newly signed Cuban midfielder, Osvaldo Alonso.

Jan 26 - First trade! Sounders FC acquired central defender Patrick Ianni from the Houston Dynamo. Given up was Sounders FC's 2nd or 3rd round draft pick next year, conditional on whether or not Ianni plays in at least 20 MLS matches this year. Ianni, with a 6-figure salary, became expendable after Houston re-signed Bobby Boswell. With Ianni, Taylor Graham, and Tyson Wahl now on the roster as central defenders, the Sounders no longer have a critical need to sign expansion draft choice Jeff Parke.

Jan 21 - Training camp opened today at the new Virginia Mason Athletic Center, training grounds for the Seahawks. The camp roster in a nutshell:

• An exciting prospect is 21-year-old Fredy Montero from Colombia
• Most players from the 2008 Sounders -- the only ones not present are Josh Gardner, Michael Rodríguez, Noah Merl, and Kevin Forrest
• Nik Besagno, loaned to the Sounders last year and cut by Real Salt Lake in the off season, is in camp
• 8 from the expansion draft -- not present are Peter Vagenas (due next week) and Jeff Parke (unsigned and probably considering offers from Europe)
• The top two SuperDraft picks (Steve Zakuani and Evan Brown), with Jared Karkas and Michael Fucito tending to academics and joining the team later
• The other signed players, with Freddie Ljungberg recovering from hip surgery
• Seattle U senior goalkeeper Jordan Jennings

Add central defender and 2008 Sounder Taylor Graham to the signed list.

Jan 20 - Sounders FC announced Ezra Hendrickson as the second assistant coach. Hendrickson recently retired from the Columbus Crew.

Jan 15 - Sounders SuperDraft picks:

• 1. Steve Zakuani, forward, age 20 (Generation adidas), 6'0", 160 lb, U Akron, from London, born in the Congo, product of the Arsenal Youth System
• 16. Evan Brown, defender, age 21, 5'11", 165 lb, Wake Forest U, from Raleigh, NC
• 31. Jared Karkas, defender, age 22, 6'0", 160 lb, Azusa Pacific U, from Upland, CA
• 46. Michael Fucito, forward, age 22, 5'9", 165 lb, Harvard U, from Westford, MA

FC Dallas took Shoreline native George John with pick 14, making him a first-rounder. Real Salt Lake took Tacoma native Raphael Cox in the fourth round with pick 54.

Jan 10 - Sounders FC have a fitness coach, David Tenney.

Jan 5 - Sounders FC are now adding to their roster again, after naming a head coach and two assistants. First of 2009 is a fan favorite from the recent Sounders seasons, goalkeeper Chris Eylander.

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