The Seattle Times: Sounders FC Blog

Sigi Schmid hospitalized with pneumonia

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 18:09:03 PST

The team sent out this news release, which also highlights some of what will happen tomorrow. Just for posterity's sake, it appears Schmid is feeling much better.

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.

At the stadium tomorrow:

Sounders FC Players will be recognized on the pitch prior to Sunday's MLS Cup. Fans 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. PT on the Xbox Pitch at Qwest Field and will be televised nationally on ESPN and Galavision. The game can be heard locally on News Talk 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.

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.

Galaxy video and photos, 11-21-09

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 14:15:03 PST

We media were not allowed onto the field for the end of L.A.'s practice so we had to wait for them outside the locker rooms. I caught the Galaxy coming in from practice, the guys you see prominently in the video are Donovan Ricketts, assistant coach Cobi Jones and MID Eddie Lewis.

Photos: One more Support Summit shot -- Paul Tamberino, director of US Soccer's referee development was there and took questions -- and MLS Rookie of the Year Omar Gonzalez of the Galaxy.

I'm off to a blogger's roundtable this afternoon...probably won't be posting anything more today. The Media Cup -- soccer games for us journos -- is tomorrow morning at Qwest, and I'm registered to play.

40,000 tickets sold for match, according to MLS

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 13:54:03 PST

As of late Friday, 40,000 tickets had been sold to MLS Cup 2009 at Qwest Field in Seattle. Some tickets are still available for purchase. Seattle Sounders FC, the host club, set an MLS record by averaging more than 30,000 fans per game this season.

(Now how many will actually show?) Either way, the west upper deck is now tarp-free and ready for customers.

MLS Cup to Air in More Than 120 Countries

Via ESPN and ESPN International, MLS Cup will be broadcast in more than 120 countries, including: United States, Mexico, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela, Aruba, Curacao, Dominican Republic, Anguilla, Antigua, Bahamas, Barbados, Barbuda, Bermuda, Bonaire, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Falkland Isles, French Guiana, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique, Montserrat, Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Maarten, Suriname, British Virgin Islands, Trinidad, Tobago, Turks and Caicos, Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras el Khaimah, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, Yemen, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Sudan, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Pacific Islands, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Cape Verde Islands, Central African Republic, Comoros, Congo, Cote d'Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritius, Mayotte, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Reunion, Rwanda, Sao Tome & Principe, Seychelles, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, St Helena, Swaziland, Tanzania & Zanzibar, The Gambia, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Photos from the Supporter's Summit

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 12:30:08 PST

Good crowd here at Qwest Field in the club level. Fans of other teams, too. Congrats to the organizers.

Photos are kind of dark, sorry..

Here's Drew Carey and MLS commissioner Don Garber speaking to the fans.

Today's Real Salt Lake practice

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 12:25:02 PST

OK the first photo is from yesterday's fish toss at Pike Place, it's RSL's Chris Seitz with the keeper gloves on.

Drew Carey is talking to reporters now here in the press box. I've been down to the supporter's summit for a little bit, will go back down soon.

Here's video from RSL practice.

When in Seattle, visitors toss (or catch) fish

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:10:03 PST

Which is exactly what players from the Galaxy and RSL did Friday afternoon at Pike Place Market, in front of a big crowd of scarf-waving fans, I am told.

Here's a photo of the action. This is Alan Gordon of the Galaxy, courtesy of MLS and German Alegria.

This job covering soccer can be so delicious...

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:01:03 PST

We all like food right? Well earlier today I got to sample some of the offerings made especially by Levy Restaurants chefs -- from the company that provides the food service to Qwest Field -- to be available for fans Sunday at the MLS Cup.

Thanks so much to Levy's director of sales for Qwest Field, Katherine Lachman; executive chef Jon Severson and sous chef Nick Walsh.

There was a lot to sample and all I did was take a couple of bites, but check these out:

My favorite thing to eat at any sports event, a soft pretzel. Only this one is GIANT. It's called the Victory Knot.

This is the Seafood Shocker. It's a fish sandwich topped with red cabbage. It's HUGE. Available only in club level.

This is, in honor of the L.A. Galaxy, a "Galaxy Dog." Two strips of applewood smoked bacon, nacho cheese sauce, red onion, diced tomatoes.

The Salt Lake Burger, in honor of Real Salt Lake. Smoked bacon, blue cheese, black cherry bbq sauce.

Galaxy Pizza. Veggies and cheese.

Taking you inside the interview room...

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:22:02 PST

...for a look at what I do often. Here's two guys you know.

Couple of things to add: Landon Donovan said Beckham has been playing hurt and/or sick the last six or seven games. Beckham said he's considering investing in an MLS franchise, that it will happen eventually. He wants to be an ambassador for MLS.

Beckham has been dealing with a sore ankle and trained for the first time today in some time. He said it's a bone bruise and it requires an injection for the pain.
Donovan said he is fully invested in an MLS season for the first time in his career and has the feeling of putting everything into this game, so winning it would be very special.

Photos from Galaxy practice, 11-20-09 (with Donovan and Beckham)

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:52:03 PST

Some quotes from RSL players Nick Rimando and Kyle Beckerman

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:14:04 PST

Beckerman:
"We came here to win. We think we can win. We don't really care who we're playing, who's on the team. It should be fun."

Rimando:
"There's still people that don't believe in us. We're a team that believes, and that's why we're here."

Beckerman:
"I think we were actually really consistent. We won at home and we lost on the road."

Rimando (on adjusting to Qwest surface):
"It's a nightmare really. You really have to adjust, look at the skipping balls...you've got to follow every play out."

Drew Carey to appear at Supporters Summit

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:04:03 PST

This is from Sounders FC...

RENTON, Wash. - Seattle Sounders FC owner, Drew Carey and MLS Commissioner Don Garber and will participate in the 11th annual Supporters Summit hosted by Seattle Sounders FC supporter groups on Saturday, November 21.

The MLS Commissioner will deliver a special address to some of the League's most dedicated and fervent fans, after which Carey will moderate a question and answer session. The summit will also include a formal discussion addressing the officiating and technical structure of MLS with top League stakeholders, Joe Machnik and Alfonso Mondelo.

WHAT: 11th Annual Supporters Summit

WHERE: West Club Lounge - Qwest Field

WHEN: Saturday, November 21, 2009

10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

WHO: MLS Commissioner Don Garber

Seattle Sounders FC Owner Drew Carey

Supporter groups

If you are coming to the match Sunday, know this from the Washington State Dept. of Transportation:

Construction Alert for MLS Cup LA Galaxy vs. Real Salt Lake at Qwest Field Sunday, November 22nd- Consider giving yourself a little extra time to get to Qwest Field for the soccer game this weekend. Construction of a new off-ramp from I-90/I-5 and a new overpass on S. Royal Brougham Way is underway next to Qwest Field. Give yourself plenty of time to find parking and get to the game. For additional information please go to www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/SR519 or call 1-800-400-0761.

What you can do to get to the game on time:
Allow extra time
Check real-time traffic on freeways at www.wsdot.wa.gov/traffic/seattle and on city streets at http://web5.seattle.gov/travelers/
Avoid S. Royal Brougham Way unless you plan to park at Qwest Field Garage
Park downtown and walk or take the bus
Consider using transit or carpooling
Use the International District Station if taking Light Rail
Pay attention to construction signs

Real Salt Lake practice 11-20-09

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:43:02 PST

Lots of media here at Qwest today. The stadium is pretty much done as far as sideboards, MLS Cup logos, and flags of the other MLS teams in the Hawks Nest. Real Salt Lake is done for the day, the Galaxy are now on the field.

I'd be a bit surprised if we get 40,000 here Sunday, with the weather and all. Could happen, but tickets remain on sale.

Here's some video I took.

MLS Cup Daily (from the league)

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:51:03 PST

Lots going on...

ESPN Classic to Air "History of the MLS Cup"

Tomorrow, ESPN Classic will air a two- hour documentary titled "History of the MLS Cup." (Of course you've been following my Seattle Times daily capsules, right?) The documentary will air at 6:00 p.m. ET and will take viewers onto the field for the best action from the first 13 MLS Cup matches, including never-before-seen footage and exclusive interviews with players and coaches. Copies of the DVD are available at www.mlsgear.com.

Price is Right to Offer MLS Cup Package

For the first time since the league's inception, Major League Soccer will be featured in a prize package for a major television game show. Hosted by Seattle Sounders FC investor owner Drew Carey, The Price Is Right airs daily on CBS at 11:00 am to an average of 4.5 million viewers. The episode will air today (Friday) and will feature an MLS Cup Prize Package that includes a trip to MLS Cup 2009 in Seattle. Airfare, hotel stay and merchandise are included.

MLS Cup Players to Participate in Fish Toss

Before the Galaxy and Real Salt Lake battle it out on the pitch, LA forward Alan Gordon and RSL goalkeeper Chris Seitz will meet at Pike Place Market at 4:00 p.m. PT for an iconic "Tossing of the Fish."

Becks at the Met

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:04:03 PST

That's Seattle's Metropolitan Grill, where last night he dined on -as I am told by representatives of the restaurant - onion soup (without cheese), a petit filet and scampi, asparagus (sauce on the side) and cranberry juice. He also signed a few autographs.

Pictured left to right: Met Grill GM Joshua Anderson, David Beckham, Noi Sartnurak (Server)

Looks like the photo was too big, but click on it to view. Sorry.

Video: Sounders FC owner Joe Roth and MLS players

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:50:04 PST

Both RSL and L.A. have arrived in town. Practice begins tomorrow at Qwest Field for both teams.

Saw Freddie Ljungberg at Starfire today doing a photo shoot for SoBeFit magazine.

Here's video from today at the playground build. Also an aerial photo of the Space Needle painted like an MLS soccer ball, thanks to my pal Rod Mar.

MLS players and Home Depot associates build a playground in south Seattle

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:06:02 PST

The project, through MLS W.O.R.K.S., took place all day at Van Asselt Elementary School in south Seattle. I showed up toward the end and said hello to the guys. Here are some photos. You might recognize some of the faces in the photos.

Besides Sounders FC guys, Dwayne DeRosario from Toronto FC and Zach Thornton from Chivas USA along with commissioner Don Garber were there to dedicate the playground. It looks nice, with the fresh sawdust for soft landings.

The players sign autographs for the workers...

The final winner of the last pair of MLS Cup tickets is....

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:25:04 PST

Michael Dulka. You nailed it, man.

One more chance to show America we care about soccer as a whole. One more chance to support and pay respect to a league that has given so much. One more chance to show our pride and March to the Match. One more chance to show the country how soccer should be done. One more chance to cement Seattle as the soccer capital of the USA. One more chance to yell "Sounders til I Die."

I'm surprised at how few entries there were for this one, must have been a difficult topic to write about. I laughed at the ones that mentioned beer, and the poems were good. Well done, everyone that participated.

Did anyone see that Landon "Landycakes" Donovan (Sorry Landon fans, I just couldn't resist) was named MVP of the league? It was the first time he's ever won it. Here's the release from the Galaxy:

CARSON, Calif. (Thursday, November 19, 2009) - LA Galaxy captain Landon Donovan was today named the 2009 Volkswagen Major League Soccer Most Valuable Player. Donovan claimed the award, the first MVP award of his MLS career, over fellow finalists Jeff Cunningham of FC Dallas and Shalrie Joseph of the New England Revolution after garnering the most votes in polling of MLS players, general managers, coaches and members of the media.

The winner of the Galaxy's Most Valuable Player and Budweiser Golden Boot awards this season, he led the club with 12 goals and six assists in 25 games, despite missing a month of the season while at the FIFA Confederations Cup with the U.S. National Team. This was the fourth time in his five seasons with the Galaxy that he led the team in both goals and assists. He was a finalist for the MLS MVP award in 2008 when he scored a career-best 20 goals, but lost out on the award to Guillermo Barros Schelotto of the Columbus Crew.

Three of Donovan's 12 goals this season were game-winners while five of his goals came in the final 15 minutes of games to turn loses into draws or draws into victories. The Player of the Month for July, Donovan helped lead the Galaxy to a first place finish in the Western Conference with a 12-6-12 record on the season, just one year removed from finishing the season tied for the worst record in the league.

The 27-year-old Donovan, who was named to the MLS All-Star Team for the ninth consecutive season, is also the leading scorer so far in the 2009 MLS Cup Playoffs, scoring in all three of the Galaxy's playoff games this season. His goal against Houston in extratime on Friday was the 17th postseason goal of his MLS career, making him the all-time leading scorer in MLS postseason history.

Donovan joins Carlos Ruiz as the only Galaxy players ever to be selected the league's Most Valuable Player. Ruiz was named the MLS MVP in 2002 when he scored a club record 24 goals to lead the Galaxy to the first MLS Cup championship in club history.

This will be the sixth time in league history, and the second straight season, that the MLS MVP will also play in the MLS Cup. Three of the previous five MVP winners who went on to reach the MLS Cup ended up winning the title, with all three of those, Tony Meola in 2000, Carlos Ruiz in 2002 and Guillermo Barros Schelotto in 2008, also winning the MLS Cup MVP award.

News from around MLS

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:16:03 PST

I'm here at the office sitting in Commissioner Don Garber's online chat. First off, for those who are writing their entries for the ticket contest, EMAIL them to me at jromero@seattletimes.com. NO COMMENTS ON THE BLOG accepted for this one.

So Preki is gone from Chivas USA but lands at Toronto FC as its new head coach. Funny story from the Deseret News of Salt Lake about how the NBA's Jazz, even the European dudes on the team, don't seem to have a clue about Real Salt Lake in the MLS Cup final.

Excerpt from that article here:

So, soccer savants Mehmet Okur and Andrei Kirilenko, who are you picking to win: RSL or L.A.?
"Are they playing?" Okur asked in sincerity.
Hard to believe after how many scenarios had to fall into place for Real to even sneak into the playoffs -- not to mention the fact they had to beat the defending champions in the first round and get by a talented Fire team on the road -- but, yep, they sure are.
"Really?" Kirilenko asked. "In the final?"
Wouldn't lie about something like this. Heck, it's even on ESPN this Sunday at 6:30 p.m.
No offense, local soccer fans, but Utah's European basketball players -- all followers of the other football -- apparently skipped over the part of the Sports section that elaborated about RSL's title tilt with the Los Angeles Galaxy.
"I've got to think about more basketball right now," smiled Okur.

The third and final contest for a free pair of MLS Cup tickets

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:51:03 PST

Last chance, homies. The object of the game is this...

Write to me, in 75 words or less (and you better use the word count!) what you would say to convince someone who is on the fence, so to speak, or indecisive about going to the MLS Cup final Sunday. With Sounders FC not in the match, what would you tell people?

Ready? Go. You have until 4 p.m.

MLS Cup Daily from the league

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:45:03 PST

ESPNews to Reveal Volkswagen MVP Today

The winner of the 2009 Volkswagen MLS MVP award is scheduled appear today on ESPNews between 4:30 p.m. and 4:45 pm ET (1:30--1:45 p.m. PT). The three finalists for the award are FC Dallas forward Jeff Cunningham, Los Angeles Galaxy forward Landon Donovan and New England Revolution midfielder Shalrie Joseph.

One More March to the Match in 2009

Seattle Sounder FC will continue their game day tradition with a March to the Match prior to MLS Cup. Owners Joe Roth and Drew Carey have invited MLS Commissioner Don Garber to join them at 4 p.m. on Sunday at Pioneer Square, the traditional gathering place prior to the march to Qwest Field. Sounders FC players will walk alongside the devoted fans who have contributed so much to the club's success.

Remember, commisioner Don Garber will be at the Seattle Times today for an 11:30 a.m. live online chat.

And loook out for this:

Spontaneous soccer matches will pop up at Queen City (is this really known as "Queen City?") hot spots leading up to Sunday's Championship

SEATTLE, Wash. - adidas and Volkswagen are taking soccer to the streets of Seattle with three days of mini matches across the city. To build excitement for Sunday's MLS Cup between Real Salt Lake and the Los Angeles Galaxy, these spontaneous games will take place at a number of the Queen City's most popular landmarks November 19-21 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Throughout plazas, shopping malls, parking lots and intersections in and around Seattle, adidas and VW with the help of MLS players including Peter Vagenas, Patrick Ianni, Brad Evans and Nathan Sturgis, are expected to roll out Astroturf, set-up soccer goals and host impromptu two-on-two matches. A referee will judge the action and a commentator will provide observers with enthusiastic play by play. Just as fast as they arrive, they will be gone.

A passionate cheering section will follow the matches and distribute coupons for local Soccer West stores, information about Sunday's MLS Cup and details on the pre-match Fan Fest at Qwest Field's North Parking Lot.

"Seattle is such a great soccer city and it is very fitting that the MLS Cup is at Qwest Field on Sunday," said Antonio Zea, Director of Soccer for adidas America. "These matches will pop up everywhere from Pike Place to Westlake Center and will engage local fans, celebrate soccer and extend the excitement of MLS Cup."

Fans taking photos or video of the soccer matches can text, email or upload it to mlscup@adidas.com and be entered to win one of eleven prizes at Sunday's pre-game Fan Fest.

The winner of the second pair of MLS Cup tickets is...

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:16:03 PST

...but first, I haven't blogged this much in a while, wow, what a day! And I have to give a shout out to Darren Sawatzky with the Sounders for the assist today. The word is that the team coaching staff (including Sigi Schmid and Adrian Hanauer) are playing a "friendly" under the lights at Starfire tonight against MLS staffers in town for the game.

Anyway, soooo many funny captions, a lot of good-natured shots at Becks and Posh, great participation by a lot of people from not just here locally but out of town. But there can only be one for now. And the winning caption is...

"I hate it when they don't bend!"

The only caption to pay homage to Becks' famous bending free kicks, which earned him a movie title. Nice work Keith Iosso, you're a winner!

Final contest is NOT going to be a caption but will test your writing skills. I'll post it tomorrow between 10-11 a.m. Thanks for playing!

BTW here's tomorrow's Sounders FC story, lots going on this offseason.

Coach Sigi Schmid speaks at MLS Cup trophy arrival

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 19:45:02 PST

The always interesting coach had some words for the fans earlier today. BTW the Galaxy just canceled its postseason tour to Europe originally scheduled for after MLS Cup.

Will there be a big Sounders FC signing this offseason?

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 19:28:03 PST

GM Adrian Hanauer was asked that today.

"We're always looking to get better, and we're willing to be aggressive to do so," Hanauer said. "We've toyed with the idea and have had conversations with teams about trading for a second DP (designated player) slot. It's something we'll continue to assess and talk about."

"It's certainly possible, but we'll only do it if it makes sense for the team to win more games and perform better on the field," Hanauer said.

In a related matter, the league announced the draft rules for the Philadelphia Union next week:

Philadelphia will select the core of their inaugural squad in a 10-round draft next Wednesday. Teams can participate in a half-day trade window on Monday until Noon ET. All 15 MLS teams are required to submit their lists of protected players to the League by 3 p.m. ET on Monday, Nov. 23.

The League will distribute a list of the players available in the expansion draft to media that day. At the conclusion of the Expansion Draft, results will be posted on MLSnet.com and teams may resume trading.

The most recent expansion draft was highlighted by several impact players who helped lead Seattle Sounders FC to a playoff berth in their first season including Brad Evans, Nate Jaqua and James Riley.

Philadelphia Union may not claim more than one player from any given team in MLS - five teams will not have a player taken in the expansion draft.

2009 MLS Expansion Draft Rules

Senior Roster

Teams may protect 11 players between their Senior and their Developmental Roster.
If the Player's contract expires at the end of 2009, he will still be considered part of the Team's Senior Roster.
If a Team protects a player, it is not obligated to exercise the player's option. It may renegotiate a new budget number for the player as in previous years.
If a player retires, he will not be a part of the Senior Roster, but his Team will lose its right of first refusal to him should he ultimately decide to play.

Developmental Roster

Players on a Team's Developmental Roster, other than Generation adidas players who have not been graduated at the end of the 2009 season and Home Grown Players, will be part of the expansion draft.
Generation adidas players (who have not been graduated at the end of the 2009 season) and Home Grown players are automatically protected (teams do not have to use a protected slot on them). If Philadelphia selects a Developmental Player it must offer him a Senior Roster position and he must be on Philadelphia's Senior Roster as of Roster Compliance Date.

International Players

Teams are restricted in the number of International player(s) that they may make available per the table set forth below.
For purposes of this expansion process, for US-based teams, any non-domestic US player would count as an International and for Toronto FC, any non-domestic US player or non-domestic Canadian player would count as an International.

Designated Players

Designated Players do not have to be protected unless the player has a no trade clause in which case he must be protected.

Maximum Player Loss

Once a player has been claimed from a Team's non-protected roster, that team is eliminated from the expansion draft and may not lose any further players.

Right to Renegotiate

Philadelphia will have the right to renegotiate a drafted player's salary (either up or down) without having to place such player on waivers or giving his previous Team a right of first refusal.

Priority

On the first day of the Discovery/Allocation Period, Philadelphia will have priority over players who played professionally in the USL First or Second Division in 2009, subject to another MLS team's right of first refusal.

Rounds

The expansion draft will be 10 rounds.

Third Eye Blind to perform outside of Qwest Sunday

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 19:07:03 PST

Details here in this news release:

SEATTLE (Nov. 18, 2009) -- As fans gear up to watch Los Angeles Galaxy and Real Salt Lake go head-to-head in the epic finale of the season, AT&T, along with Major League Soccer, L.L.C. (MLS), announced today that Third Eye Blind will host a concert in Seattle, Wash. to usher in the MLS Cup 2009 game. The free event comes just months after the band's latest album, "Ursa Major," debuted at No. 1 on Billboard's top-selling rock albums list. As a sponsor of the MLS Cup, AT&T will also deliver exclusive content across mobile handsets.

On Sunday, Nov. 22, 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., Pacific Standard Time (PST). Third Eye Blind will be performing before the game outside 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 the MLS Philip F. Anschutz Championship Trophy and play soccer-themed games. Kickoff for MLS Cup 2009 will begin at 5:30 p.m. PST.

In addition, AT&T wireless customers can access Third Eye Blind ringtones on their wireless devices, including their hit song "Bonfire," by texting 3EB to 385, or via AT&T MEdia Mall.

Fans can also check their handsets now for highlights from the 2009 MLS season, including footage of the AT&T Goal of the Week and other game highlights, available through AT&T's CV mobile video platform. Additionally, after the game, AT&T will have exclusive mobile coverage of MLS Cup content, including player interviews, MLS Cup game highlights and MLS Cup post-game reactions.

"We're looking forward to being a part of the highly anticipated end of the 2009 season, and with Third Eye Blind kicking the game off, we expect the buzz and excitement for the event to continue to grow," said Tim McGhee, executive director, AT&T corporate sponsorships. "Plus, by offering content before and after the game, we're able to better connect fans across the globe to the content they're craving from the season and from this monumental game."

As a sponsor of the 14th annual MLS Cup, AT&T will deliver behind-the-scenes content, including player interviews, MLS Cup game highlights and more through AT&T CV mobile video.

"We are excited to have Third Eye Blind perform at our Soccer Celebration event at MLS Cup 2009," said Kathy Carter, executive vice president of Soccer United Marketing, MLS' marketing arm. "Seattle's inaugural year in MLS has been nothing short of spectacular and we look forward to bringing a world-class band to the fans in Seattle, all of our television viewers and all of the fans who come from far and wide to attend our championship game. AT&T is always on the cutting edge of technology. You will be able to get the Third Eye Blind concert, as well as game highlights, on your mobile device, as if you had a seat at midfield. MLS fans from across the country will be able to access exciting, exclusive content via a variety of technological platforms that can't be found anywhere else."

Throughout November, AT&T will also bring Major League Soccer players to local AT&T retail stores in the Seattle area, where they will sign autographs, greet fans, conduct giveaways and more.

For more information on AT&T's sponsorship of MLS, please visit: http://fanzone.att.net.

Landon Donovan wins Goal of the Year, and some photos from the Cup arrival

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:06:03 PST

From the Galaxy:

Fans Vote His Goal at New England as the Best of the Year in MLS

CARSON, Calif. (Wednesday, November 18, 2009) - LA Galaxy captain Landon Donovan was today named the winner of the 2009 AT&T MLS Goal of the Year Award. With the scored tied 0-0 between the Galaxy and New England Revolution on August 8, Donovan hit a left-footed volley off a New England clearance that beat the diving Matt Reis and curled just inside the far post to give the Galaxy a 1-0 lead. Click here to see Donovan's goal that was selected as the 2009 AT&T MLS Goal of the Year.

The Galaxy went on to win that game 2-1, stretching their unbeaten streak to six games and giving the club their first regular season road win over the Revolution since July 11, 1999. Donovan's goal was his ninth of 12 on the season and stretched his consecutive games played with a goal streak to three games.

Donovan's strike was one of three Galaxy goals on the initial list of 40 goals that was compiled by Major League Soccer for Goal of the Year voting. Eddie Lewis' late equalizer against Columbus on May 17 made the list but was eliminated in the first round of voting, while Alecko Eskandarian's first half volley in LA's 3-1 win over the New York Red Bulls on July 16 was one of the 10 goals to reach the final round of voting.

Donovan is just the second Galaxy player to win the MLS Goal of the Year award, joining Carlos Ruiz who claimed the award in 2002. His goal against the Revolution was voted by fans as the best of the 571 goals scored in Major League Soccer this season.

MLS Goal of the Year Winners

2009: Landon Donovan - LA Galaxy

2008: Will Johnson - Real Salt Lake

2007: Cuauhtemoc Blanco - Chicago Fire

2006: Brian Ching - Houston Dynamo

2005: Dwayne De Rosario - San Jose Earthquakes

2004: Dwayne De Rosario - San Jose Earthquakes

2003: Damani Ralph - Chicago Fire

2002: Carlos Ruiz - Los Angeles Galaxy

2001: Clint Mathis - MetroStars

2000: Marcelo Balboa - Colorado Rapids

1999: Marco Etcheverry - D.C. United

1998: Brian McBride - Columbus Crew

1997: Marco Etcheverry - D.C. United

1996: Eric Wynalda - San Jose Clash

MLS Cup tickets caption contest No. 2

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:57:03 PST

Ready? You have from now until around 8 p.m.-ish (or halftime of the Blazers game, lol!) to email me your captions for this L.A. Galaxy photo courtesy of AP:

Please remember that the winning caption is at my discretion and one can't please everyone.

And the winner of the first pair of MLS Cup tickets is....

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:39:03 PST

Benjamin Montoya of Seattle. There were a few similar to this one but I liked that he named both players.

"Nick Rimando caught playing with Fire! Remember to Stop, Drop, and Rolfe."

Congrats to Benjamin and thank you to everyone who played!

Stay tuned for the next contest...another caption thing. Keep them coming!

Team logos painted on top of Space Needle

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:52:03 PST

Thanks to MLS for providing them to me, plus Omega Graphics for taking them. You know it's hard work getting up there in this weather.

The Philip F. Anschutz MLS Cup trophy arrives in Seattle

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:43:03 PST

The trophy arrived via the Bainbridge Ferry at Colman Dock this afternoon. I was there to grab video - as was seattletimes.com, if you want to see more professional stuff with interviews - and this was a nice event/photo opportunity put on by MLS and Sounders FC.

Sigi Schmid and Sounders FC technical director Chris Henderson walk off the boat with the trophy on their way to a brief ceremony on the dock.

More photos/video to come!

For the first pair of MLS Cup tickets

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:34:02 PST

If you follow the blog or told someone about the ticket contest, you know the rules, both official and how I'm going to give away the three pairs of tickets.

So let's get it started. From now til 2 p.m. is your window of opportunity to submit a good caption for this photo from Getty Images, in honor of one team in the final - Real Salt Lake:

At around 2:15 I will post the winning caption and contact the winner. This is why all entries must be emailed to me. Then at about 3:15 or so I will start the next contest for another pair of tickets. Be creative, maybe a little humorous, know your material, and good luck!

Getting in on the MLS Cup party

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 08:52:03 PST

It seems that everyone is hosting some kind of event this week. Here are some details, thanks to the various supporters groups and soccer Web sites here locally.

Prost Amerika's Sounders Cup Final Party featuring Sounders FC's James Riley and Jeremy St. Louis of Fox Soccer Channel (and apparently free frozen custard) is Saturday at 3 p.m. at the Baltic Room in Seattle. Details here.

Gorilla FC has a meet-and-greet scheduled for Friday night at Fado Pub, and is expecting Sebastien Le Toux and Taylor Graham to attend.

Saturday there is the Supporters Summit, followed by a pub crawl from 6-10 p.m.
Sunday features a FIFA 2010 video game tournament and a spaghetti feed - I RSVPed for that, love me some spaghetti.

Emerald City Supporters, North End Supporters and Sounders Alliance are all in on the festivities as hosts as well.

Details on all of the above can be found here. Kudos to all of the organizers for doing this for the fans.

It's CONTEST time - this time for MLS Cup tickets!

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:47:02 PST

The Seattle Times has received three pairs of tickets to the MLS Cup final on Sunday -- Real Salt Lake vs. Los Angeles Galaxy, Beckham, Landon Donovan, Kyle Beckerman, Robbie Findley, etc., and I'm charged with giving them away.

So we're going to do what we did for the Sounders FC playoff tickets ... you're going to have to earn them. And please, GO TO THE GAME. Support the sport.

Tomorrow morning at around 9 a.m. I will post a photo. Those who'd like to win a pair of tickets are asked to write a photo caption. You'll have until 2 p.m. to EMAIL me your entry, then we'll do it all over again with another photo at 3 for another pair of tickets. More details to follow, just know your deadline and follow the blog to win!

Let's have some fun with it! Winners will be contacted via e-mail reply and I'll tell you how to get your tickets from there.

Things to know:

- ONE pair of tickets per winner per household AND ONE ENTRY PER PERSON.

- You will need to submit your full name, your email address and your best contact phone number along with your entry. This is private information that the Times needs to contact winners and will not be kept for any other reason.

- Winners must claim their tickets at the Times building, 1120 John St. in Seattle, by Friday before the game. Have your ID with you as you will be asked for verification purposes.

5. Please READ AND UNDERSTAND the official rules of contests at the Seattle Times.

Some things of interest from the Real Salt Lake side

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:12:02 PST

An article from Michael Lewis of the Salt Lake Tribune that says RSL's front office is trying to come up with ways to get Seattle fans to pull for their side Sunday.

So, as a reader asked moments ago, who are you with for this one?

Have to share with you that RSL coach Jason Kreis was not thrilled with a question from a reporter this afternoon on a conference call. The question was something about how teams with losing records (RSL was 11-12-7 in regular season) do not have a history of faring well in the postseason in any sport, I think.

"It sounds like we better not go," Kreis said, unhappy with the tone of the question, I suppose and referring to the team going to Seattle for the MLS Cup final. "I have a lot of belief in this team, not based on results, not based on finishing eighth place...we have every shot in the world and I don't care what statistics say."

Also want to encourage everyone to go to the MLS site and see us (the Seattle Times) on the front page. Please participate!

MLS Cup Daily (Galaxy-RSL)

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:38:03 PST

From the league:

Neither team has lost in MLS play this year after scoring the first goal. When scoring first, the Galaxy went 12-0-3 in the regular season; RSL went 9-0-3 when scoring first. Those were the two best records in MLS this year for teams scoring first.

But in MLS Cup history, five teams have rallied to win or force a penalty kick tie breaker after surrendering the first goal. Teams that score first in MLS Cup have gone 8-4-1.

Seattle Weather Update

According to Weather.com, the forecast for Friday through Sunday in Seattle is cloudy with a 40 percent chance of precipitation each day. During the day, the temperatures are expected to reach the mid-40s and at night the temperature could drop to the high-30s.

The Commissioner praises Sounders FC

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:17:03 PST

Here's an excerpt from MLS commissioner Don Garber's comments Monday:

Garber called Sounders FC, who led the league in attendance and became the first expansion team to advance to the MLS Cup Playoffs since the Chicago Fire in 1998, "arguably one of the best expansion launches in all of pro sports."

He said the team had relevance and created a buzz in Seattle, providing the case study for other teams in the league to follow.

"When you take a step back, the credibility that we have, the awareness we have of the great success in Seattle on the field and off the field gives us something that we've never had before, which is a real indication as to what the sport can be in this country," Garber said.

There was more from the commissioner. He was asked about the collective bargaining agreement that expires soon.

As for the league's collective bargaining agreement, which expires on Jan. 31, Garber said the league and the players union have met about six times over the course of six months.

"I expect this will be a difficult agreement to finalize, but I am very confident that we will be able to reach a productive agreement with our players," Garber said. "I know that both we and the union are committed to do that."

Referring to a published report, Garber said any talk of a work stoppage "is totally premature."

"We, the league, will not agree to a CBA that will negatively impact our ability to continue to grow this sport in the United States and Canada," Garber said. "We've been very committed to doing that and quite successfully, I might add, for the last 14 years and we're not going to compromise any of the key issues that we're discussing confidentially within this agreement in order to avoid a stoppage."

The above was excerpted from this story on the MLS site.

Philadelphia Union's uniform unveiled

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:18:02 PST

What do you think? I'm not feeling it much...

Here's a story on the unveiling from the Philly Business Journal.

Seattle getting set for MLS Cup

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:01:02 PST

On my way back from the sunshine to this rain this morning I learned that there is some work being done atop the Space Needle this week.

Workers are painting (UPDATE 4:57 p.m.- HAVE PAINTED) a 15-foot high Seattle MLS Cup logo on top of the Needle. The weather is slowing down the progress of what will be a larger project which should be done sometime this week, but the logo is completed.

Here's where you can see photos, click on the link that says "MLS Cup adorns Seattle".

Also, while waiting for my bag at SeaTac baggage claim, the TVs atop the carousels displayed this...

One more thing, just learned that Sounders FC player Osvaldo Alonso is visiting patients and their families at the Ronald McDonald House in Seattle today at 4:30. You might recall that he and Fredy Montero appeared at a McDonald's restaurant in town, and that led to something being worked out with the RMH.

Freddie Ljungberg named to MLS Best XI

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 15:30:03 PST

Back from a little vacation...here's the announcement from the league, preceded by my story for the Times.

Sounders FC midfielder Freddie Ljungberg was voted to Major League Soccer's Best XI for 2009, league commissioner Don Garber announced Monday morning.
The Best XI is a postseason award that recognizes the League's top 11 players at each position on the field - one goalkeeper, three defenders, five midfielders and two forwards. Ljungberg, one of four MLS All-Stars representing Sounders FC in its inaugural season, was the club's lone honoree.
Ljungberg, a native of Sweden who became a star in the English Premier League with Arsenal before signing to become Sounders FC's designated player last fall, led Seattle with nine assists and led MLS with five game-winning assists. He also scored two goals and was named MLS Player of the Month for October on his way to being a finalist for league Newcomer of the Year.
Ljungberg overcame hip surgery before the season and dealt with severe migraines during the regular campaign that forced him out of a few games, but made a major impact on Sounders FC's attack when healthy and playing at full strength.
The Best XI members received the most votes from the media, MLS players and MLS coaches and general managers.

And now, the official details from MLS, including other honorees.

NEW YORK (Monday, Nov. 16, 2009) - MLS Commissioner Don Garber today announced the 2009 Best XI during his annual State of the League address. The Best XI recognizes the League's top 11 players at each position on the field - one goalkeeper, three defenders, five midfielders and two forwards. Six members of the 2009 Best XI are prior recipients of the honor, while five have been named to the squad for the first time.

The Best XI members received the most votes from the media, MLS players and MLS coaches and general managers.

Chivas USA goalkeeper Zach Thornton earned his third major award of this year and his second career Best XI nod. This year's Goalkeeper of the Year and Comeback Player of the Year, Thornton was a Best XI member in 1998 when he helped lead the Chicago Fire to an MLS Cup championship.

The Best XI defense includes Chad Marshall, a two-time Best XI member and this year's Visa Defender of the Year. Joining Marshall on the back line are two first-time recipients - the Houston Dynamo's Geoff Cameron and the Chicago Fire's Wilman Conde.

The star-studded midfield includes two four-time honorees, Shalrie Joseph (New England Revolution), and Dwayne De Rosario (Toronto FC). Landon Donovan (LA Galaxy) earned his third selection. MLS Newcomer of the Year finalist Freddie Ljungberg (Seattle Sounders FC) earned MLS Best XI honors for the first time, as did Stuart Holden (Houston Dynamo).

The 2009 Golden Boot winner Jeff Cunningham (FC Dallas), joins his closest suitor in that race, Conor Casey (Colorado Rapids) at forward. Cunningham was named to the team for a third time, while this is the first Best XI selection for Casey.

This season 10 clubs are represented on the Best XI. Houston is the only club with two representatives. Of the top 11 players, 10 were members of the 2009 MLS All-Star team, and seven are finalists for the League's top end-of-season awards, including Volkswagen MLS MVP finalists Cunningham, Donovan and Joseph. Nine members of the Best XI have senior national team appearances. Conde and Cameron are the only two without a full national team cap.

The Volkswagen MLS MVP will be awarded Thursday, Nov. 19. ESPNews will broadcast the award ceremony. Below is a breakdown of the MLS Best XI by position and in alphabetical order:

2009 MLS Best XI:

GOALKEEPER (1): Zach Thornton (Chivas USA)
DEFENDERS (3): Geoff Cameron (Houston Dynamo), Wilman Conde (Chicago Fire), Chad Marshall (Columbus Crew)
MIDFIELDERS (5): Dwayne De Rosario (Toronto FC), Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy), Stuart Holden (Houston Dynamo), Shalrie Joseph (New England Revolution), Freddie Ljungberg (Seattle Sounders FC)
FORWARDS (2): Conor Casey (Colorado Rapids), Jeff Cunningham (FC Dallas)

March to the Match back once more for 2009

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 10:34:05 PST

Read this:

MLS Cup Final "March to the Match"

As part of the MLS Cup and Supporters Summit activities, there will be the traditional march to match 90 minutes prior to MLS Cup Final. The Sounders FC band, "Sound Wave" along with Sounders FC owners, players, coaches and MLS Commissioner Don Garber are all slated to take part in the march. This is an opportunity for fans from all over, regardless of which team they are supporting, to celebrate the beautiful game and our league's championship matchup. Major League Soccer fans will meet at 3:45 p.m. at Occidental Park for a brief celebration and address and then depart from there towards the X-Box Pitch at Qwest Field at 4:00 p.m.

News release from the L.A. Galaxy on making it to the MLS Cup

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 23:10:03 PST

CARSON, Calif. (Saturday, November 14, 2009) - With their 2-0 extratime win over the Houston Dynamo On Friday night at The Home Depot Center, the LA Galaxy have advanced to MLS Cup 2009. The Galaxy will now face the Eastern Conference Champion Real Salt Lake on Sunday, November 22 at Qwest Field in Seattle for the league title. MLS Cup 2009, which will be shown live nationally in English on ESPN and Galavision, will begin at 5:30 p.m. (PT).

Real Salt Lake advanced to MLS Cup on Saturday night with their 5-4 win over the Chicago Fire on penalty kicks in the Eastern Conference Championship. The match finished 0-0 after 120 minutes of regulation and extra time.

With their win over the Dynamo on Friday night, the Galaxy have now qualified for MLS Cup for a league record sixth time. The winners of the 2002 and 2005 MLS Cups, LA also qualified for the league championship in 1996, 1999 and 2001, losing in the Final to D.C. United in '96 and '99 before falling to San Jose in extratime of MLS Cup 2001. With a win in Seattle next Sunday, the Galaxy will join D.C. United as the only two teams in MLS history to win the MLS Cup three or more times.

One of most successful playoff teams in MLS history, the Galaxy have registered a record of 28-15-5 since the league began, including a 2-0-1 mark this season. To reach this year's MLS Cup, the Galaxy defeated Chivas USA 3-2 on aggregate in their Western Conference Semifinal Series thanks to a 2-2 draw in Game #1 and a 1-0 win in Game #2, before defeating Houston in the Western Conference Championship on Friday night.

Fans wishing to purchase MLS Cup tickets can do so by visiting http://web.mlsnet.com/t106/tickets/2009/playoffs.jsp.

It's a West side thing in the MLS Cup

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 23:02:03 PST

And I'm happy to see it. An established league traditional power in the Galaxy. And a sizzling Real Salt Lake squad trying to make some noise. Can't wait, should be a good one next weekend!

Honestly though, I'm still basking in Oregon's win over ASU today....

Now, there is this out of Sounders FC's front office:

RENTON, WASH. - Due to overwhelming demand, 6,000 additional seats are now on sale for the MLS Cup 2009 featuring David Beckham, Landon Donovan and the Los Angeles Galaxy. The initial offering of 36,000 sold out.

Tickets for the November 22 annual Major League Soccer championship are located in the Qwest Field upper level on the west side. Tickets can be purchased by visiting Ticketmaster.com or calling 1-800-745-3000.

The Los Angeles Galaxy, by virtue of Friday's 2-0 win in extra time over the Houston Dynamo, has advanced to MLS Cup 2009 as the Western Conference champion. The other half of the MLS Cup pairing will be decided when Real Salt Lake plays at Chicago Fire on Saturday night at 5:00 p.m. PT for the Eastern Conference bid. (That game is now over).

Seattle's Qwest Field is the eighth stadium to host Major League Soccer's championship game. Kickoff for MLS Cup 2009 is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. PT (live on ESPN).