The Eternal Sounders Circle of Legends is the highest honor a Sounders alumnus can receive, reserved for those whose impact on the club will be remembered for generations. Each year, a new class of players, coaches, and builders is inducted through a process that unites fans, alumni, media, and club staff—ensuring the community itself helps define the club’s legacy. To be named to the Circle of Legends is to stand forever among the giants of Sounders history.
The original “Mr. Sounder,” Gabriel came to the Emerald City and captained the 1974 squad following a distinguished career in England, eventually taking over as player-Head Coach from 1977-1979.
Sounders FC’s first Head Coach of the MLS era (2009-2016), Schmid brought class and pedigree to the Rave Green, ushering in unprecedented success for an expansion side in American sports.
An Olympia native and U.S. Soccer legend, Keller joined Sounders FC in 2009 after an illustrious career in Europe, captaining the team at the start of the MLS era.
Sounders legends are chosen from four categories—MLS Players (2009+), Veteran Players (1974-2008), Coaches, and Builders—each with its own criteria around performance, contributions, and community impact. Some must wait several years after retirement (or match / trophy thresholds) unless they meet exceptional standards for fast-track eligibility. Community legacy matters just as much as on-field success.
Each year, a Nomination Committee of alumni, staff, ownership, and Alliance Council members builds the ballot for the Circle of Legends. Fans, alumni, media, staff, and other stakeholders then cast weighted votes, with Alliance Members holding the largest share. To be inducted, a candidate must earn at least 75% of the total vote, making the Circle of Legends the highest honor in Sounders history.
Inducted in 2024 as part of Sounders FC's 50th Anniversary Celebration, the original 1974 Sounders team forever holds the distinction of being the first honored in the Circle of Legends. They were the first professional soccer players to call the Puget Sound home, arriving from seven different countries to forge a bond with one another and with a city that embraced them. Their grit, character, and unity set the standard for what it means to be a Sounder.
Their story is more than history, it is legend. Coming to the water’s edge and choosing to stay, the 1974 Sounders defined the spirit that still echoes in every match. They showed that the club is built on resilience, pride, and an unbreakable connection to community. By enshrining them as the inaugural inductee, the Circle of Legends ensures their legacy will endure as the foundation upon which all future generations of Sounders will stand.
Barry Watling • David D’Errico • Willie Penman • Phil Trenter • Jimmy Gabriel • Roy Sinclair • Dave Butler • Pepe Fernandez • Hank Liotart • Roger Goldingay • Alan Stephens • Bob Cram • Chris Bartels • Bernie Fagan • Adrian Webster • Dave Gillett • John Rowlands • Tjeert Van’t Land • Otey Cannon • Ballan Campeau • Dave Landry • Manager: John Best