SEATTLE -- Sigi Schmid believes one group is responsible for the decision to play MLS Cup 2009 in the Emerald City: Seattle's soccer fans.
"It shows that Seattle has jumped ahead of a lot of people just because of the response of the fans," the Sounders FC coach said. "I think MLS Cup coming here is really a tribute to the interest that the city has shown and what the fans have done by getting behind this team and supporting it. It's almost like a thank you to the fans to be able to witness and watch a showcase game."
Fan interest in the expansion team, which was awarded to Seattle in November of 2007, has been unprecedented. With more than 20,000 season tickets sold, Seattle boasts the largest season ticket base in Major League Soccer.
International exhibitions featuring teams such as Manchester United, the Brazilian national team, and the Mexican national team have also long drawn strong soccer audiences in Seattle.
A sold-out crowd of 32,400 spectators at Qwest Field will greet Schmid's team when they open the season on March 19 against the New York Red Bulls. Season ticket holders were mailed rave green scarves which will serve as their tickets for the nationally-televised match.
The potential home field advantage makes MLS Cup an enticing target for Schmid's squad.
"Our objective, even though we're an expansion team, is to find our way into that game if at all possible."
Seattle soccer fans also have one more reason to celebrate -- the CONCACAF Gold Cup. The continental governing body announced that Qwest Field will host a doubleheader on July 4. Teams are yet to be determined.
The 23-day tournament will be played at 13 venues, including four with artificial surfaces (Qwest Field, FIU Stadium in Miami, Gillette Stadium and Giants Stadium).
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