Originally published December 16, 2008 at 11:15 AM | Page modified December 16, 2008 at 1:54 PM

Sounders introduce new coach, Sigi Schmid

Sigi Schmid, winner of two MLS titles was introduced as the first coach of Seattle Sounders FC on Tuesday in an emotional news conference.

By José Miguel Romero

Seattle Times staff reporter

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TED S. WARREN / AP

Sigi Schmid, right, is introduced by Sounders general manager Adrian Hanauer, left, as the first head coach of the Seattle Sounders FC MLS soccer team Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2008, at Qwest Field in Seattle.

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Sigi Schmid fought back tears this morning during his announcement as Seattle Sounders FC's first head coach, emotional as he was to be reunited with his brother Roland, who lives in the Seattle area.

Schmid expressed his excitement about his new job at a news conference at Qwest Field. He agreed to a multiyear contract with the team after three seasons as coach of the Columbus Crew of Major League Soccer, and brings 28 seasons of professional and college coaching experience to the position.

During those years, Schmid won two MLS Cups (Columbus in 2008 and the Los Angeles Galaxy in 2002) and three NCAA championships with UCLA in 1985, 1990 and 1997.

"To be the first head coach of this franchise ... to see what this club is doing behind the scenes — the organization, the structure, the commitment to the community and the sport of soccer — is beyond what's happening anywhere in this entire country," Schmid said. "and I think that's something that I was really excited to be associated with."

Then Schmid began to talk of his brother, and broke down momentarily.

"As you can tell, I'm an emotional guy," he said.

Under Schmid, Seattle will play creative and attacking soccer, Sounders FC general manager Adrian Hanauer said.

"This is truly a defining moment for our franchise," Hanauer said. "There's no other coach in the country or in the world that I'd rather be introducing today."

Schmid, 55, met with Hanauer and other team executives earlier this month in the Seattle area. The meeting led to contract negotiations as Schmid became the leading candidate to become coach.

Schmid's first priority is to put together a staff of assistants, one that is likely to include former United Soccer Leagues Sounders coach Brian Schmetzer. He also wants to develop a strong connection between players and coaches and fans.

José Miguel Romero: 206-464-2409 or jromero@seattletimes.com

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