In an offseason defined almost exclusively by bringing in players with existing ties to the Seattle Sounders or the region, it only makes sense that someone with local ties would replace Chris Henderson as sporting director.
That person will be Craig Waibel, Sounder at Heart confirmed with a source knowledgeable of the hiring. The news was first reported by Kristian Dyer, but had been hinted at by Garth Lagerwey during his appearance at YachtCon: Back to School. The news is expected to be made official this week.
Not only did Waibel play collegiately at the University of Washington and for the USL Sounders on three separate occasions — including one with Brian Schmetzer — but he also worked with Lagerwey at Real Salt Lake.