Ethan Dobbelaere’s first MLS start for Sounders FC on Wednesday night was years in the making.
Dobbelaere, 17, joined the Rave Green from youth partner club Seattle United when he was 11 years old. Six years and a host of international trophies at the youth level later, the local kid made his full debut for his hometown club.
“It was super exciting,” said Dobbelaere. “I found out [the night before the game], tried not to think about it too much so I could get some sleep. It kind of hit me right before warmups.