For those familiar with the story of Seattle Sounders FC’s ascendancy to the fore of North America’s soccer consciousness, names like Hanauer, Roth, Keller, Dempsey and Scott ring true as part of the Rave Green’s journey from plucky USL upstart to giant of the modern game. The list of those that have contributed to the club’s path is long and varied, but few have dedicated as much behind the scenes as Gary Wright.
On Saturday before the club’s pivotal fixture against Cascadia foe Vancouver, Seattle will pause to recognize one of its founding fathers. A sports industry veteran of more than 40 years, Wright bridges the gap between Sounders FC’s NFL-infused origins and its contemporary MLS success.