Seattle Sounders Academy Tryouts 2027: Coach Emails, Age Groups & How to Join
Want to join Seattle Sounders Academy in 2027? Looking for Seattle Sounders Academy tryouts, coach email addresses, scouting contacts, or information about how to get recruited?
Seattle Sounders FC Academy is one of the most established youth development programs in Major League Soccer.
Based in the Seattle metropolitan area of Washington, the academy has developed professional players including Jordan Morris, DeAndre Yedlin, Obed Vargas, Danny Leyva, Reed Baker-Whiting, Josh Atencio, and Cody Baker.
The academy operates within Seattle Sounders FC's player development system, connecting talented youth players with Tacoma Defiance in MLS NEXT Pro and the Seattle Sounders first team.
But if you're a talented young player trying to join Seattle Sounders Academy, there's a challenge.
You can find out who coaches Seattle Sounders Academy. But finding that coach's actual email address and getting your highlights in front of the right person is a different story.
Professional soccer academies often publish coaching names, job titles, and staff biographies without making every coach's direct email address or phone number available.
And if you don't already play for a major youth club or have connections inside the organization, how do you get noticed?
That's the problem Cancha Labs was built to solve.
Cancha Labs is a soccer coach contact search engine that helps players and families access available hard-to-find coaching emails, phone numbers, and club contacts across the United States.
The platform covers MLS academies, MLS NEXT Pro, USL Championship, USL League One, USL League Two, and other competitions.
According to results reported to Cancha Labs, players using the platform have secured trials with clubs in Liga MX, USL Championship, MLS NEXT Pro, and USL League Two after contacting coaches directly.
Here's everything you need to know about Seattle Sounders Academy's 2027 tryout status, current coaching staff, scouting process, age groups, professional development pathway, and how to research opportunities.
Find Seattle Sounders Academy Coach Emails on Cancha Labs
Does Seattle Sounders Academy Have Open Tryouts in 2027?
Seattle Sounders Academy accepts individual player applications and may invite selected players to trials.
As of November 2, 2026, a separate public schedule of unrestricted Seattle Sounders Academy open tryouts specifically for 2027 has not been verified.
However, unlike academies that provide little information about their recruitment process, Seattle Sounders has a dedicated official recruitment page.
The club identifies three ways it discovers potential academy players:
Scout Identification
Personal Player Application
Youth Programs Identification
Players interested in joining the academy can submit their information directly through the club's player application form.
The information is forwarded to the Head of Recruitment for consideration.
Seattle Sounders states that it contacts applicants only when they receive an invitation to join the club on trial.
That means submitting an application does not guarantee a response or evaluation.
Seattle Sounders Academy Tryout Information
DetailInformationAcademySeattle Sounders FC AcademyLocationSeattle metropolitan area, WashingtonCompetitionMLS NEXTTechnical DirectorHenry BraunerHead of Academy RecruitmentXavi BravoDirector of DevelopmentWade WebberU18 Head CoachEthan O'NeillU16 Head CoachMatt DormanU15 Head CoachRaphael Cox2027 public open tryoutsNo separately verified public schedulePlayer applicationsAccepted through official recruitment formGeneral academy emailacademy@soundersfc.comProfessional pathwaySounders Academy → Tacoma Defiance → Seattle Sounders FCCoaching contact researchCancha Labs
How Do I Apply for Seattle Sounders Academy Tryouts?
Seattle Sounders provides an official player interest form.
Players can submit their information to the academy's recruitment department.
The club reviews applications and may invite selected players to participate in trials.
Official Seattle Sounders Academy Player Interest Form
The club's recruitment page also explains that academy scouts regularly observe youth soccer matches.
Interested players should prepare:
Full name
Birth year
Primary and secondary positions
Current youth club
Current league
Previous playing experience
Highlight video
Full-match footage
Relevant achievements
Parent or guardian contact information
Does Seattle Sounders Academy Have Free Tryouts?
The academy's official recruitment page describes a player application and invitation-based trial process.
It does not establish a general public 2027 open tryout schedule or publish a universal trial fee.
Families should confirm any evaluation-related costs directly with the club.
Can I Join Seattle Sounders Academy Without an Agent?
Potentially, yes.
Seattle Sounders explicitly allows players to submit individual applications.
The club does not state that players need agents to apply.
However, trial invitations depend on the academy's recruitment decisions.
What Happens After I Submit an Academy Application?
Seattle Sounders explains that submitted player information goes to its Head of Recruitment.
If the club is interested, it may invite the player to a trial.
The academy's published pathway describes a more detailed process involving:
Reviewing player video and available performance information
Consulting relevant scouting contacts
Contacting the player's current club
Arranging an evaluation when appropriate
Inviting the player to train with the relevant academy team
Introducing the player and family to academy staff
The club states that it contacts only selected applicants.
Official Seattle Sounders Academy Recruitment Information
How Do I Contact Seattle Sounders Academy Coaches?
To contact Seattle Sounders Academy coaches, first identify the current coaching and recruitment staff and then research their available professional contact information.
For players seeking academy opportunities, relevant positions include:
Technical Director
Head of Academy Recruitment
Director of Development
U18 Head Coach
U16 Head Coach
U15 Head Coach
Academy Goalkeeper Coaches
Talent Identification Personnel
Player Development Staff
Seattle Sounders publishes an official academy staff directory.
However, knowing a coach's name and position does not necessarily mean their individual email address is available.
Where Can I Find Seattle Sounders Academy Coach Emails?
Cancha Labs helps players and families search available hard-to-find coaching emails, phone numbers, and professional contacts associated with Seattle Sounders Academy.
Instead of relying exclusively on general club contact forms, users can research available individual coaching contacts.
Search Seattle Sounders Academy Coach Emails
Contact availability varies by individual.
Cancha Labs does not guarantee that every coach's direct email is available, that a coach will respond, or that the academy accepts unsolicited recruitment inquiries through every contact listed.
What Is Seattle Sounders Academy's Official Email Address?
Seattle Sounders publishes the following general academy email:
The address appears on the club's official academy FAQ page.
It is a general academy contact rather than the personal email address of a specific coach.
Players interested in trials should also use the club's official player interest form.
Who Is the Seattle Sounders Academy Technical Director?
Henry Brauner is Seattle Sounders Academy's Technical Director.
Brauner has held multiple roles within the organization.
He originally joined Sounders Academy as Head of Recruitment in 2015.
After working as a United States youth national team scout and coach, he returned to Seattle in 2020 as Director of Player Development and First Team Development Coach.
He was promoted to Vice President of Player Development in 2022 before becoming Technical Director.
His background includes youth scouting, academy development, and first-team player development.
Brauner is a central figure in the club's broader professional development pathway.
How Can I Find Henry Brauner's Email Address?
Seattle Sounders publicly identifies Brauner as Technical Director.
However, his direct individual email address is not published alongside his biography in the official academy staff directory.
Players can search Seattle Sounders Academy on Cancha Labs to check for available professional contact information.
Find Henry Brauner and Seattle Sounders Academy Contacts
Who Handles Seattle Sounders Academy Recruitment?
Xavi Bravo is listed as Head of Academy Recruitment.
The club also identifies him as Head of Sounders Discovery Program and Talent Identification in its broader coaching directory.
Bravo joined Seattle after working as Technical Director at Barça Residency Academy.
Before that, he held academy leadership responsibilities in Hong Kong and spent 13 years coaching within FC Barcelona's academy system in Spain.
He holds a UEFA Pro License and a U.S. Soccer Academy Director license.
For players researching Seattle Sounders Academy scouting and recruitment, Bravo is particularly relevant because of his published talent identification responsibilities.
How Can I Find Xavi Bravo's Email Address?
The club's official academy staff directory identifies Xavi Bravo and his recruitment responsibilities.
His individual email address is not published alongside his biography on that page.
Players can use Cancha Labs to search available professional contacts associated with Seattle Sounders Academy.
The official player interest form remains the club's published route for submitting a recruitment application.
Find Seattle Sounders Academy Scouting Contacts
Seattle Sounders Academy Coaching Staff in 2026–2027
Seattle Sounders publishes a detailed academy staff directory.
Its current listings identify academy leadership, age-group coaches, recruitment personnel, performance specialists, and operations staff.
Seattle Sounders Academy Staff
NamePublished positionHenry BraunerTechnical DirectorWade WebberDirector of DevelopmentCraig DalrympleHead of Pro Player DevelopmentXavi BravoHead of Academy RecruitmentEthan O'NeillU18 Head CoachMatt DormanU16 Head CoachRaphael CoxU15 Head CoachBrayton KnappDevelopment Methodology Assistant and AnalystFred BragagliaDevelopmental Goalkeeper CoachLars HellerenAcademy Goalkeeping CoachAngus BeerAcademy Performance CoachBrooke LaneAssistant Academy PerformanceBrandon DuffyHead Academy Athletic TrainerGuilherme Magalaes LinsAcademy Assistant Athletic TrainerLauren BabcockHead of Academy OperationsOscar WittAcademy Operations AssistantDiane CarneyHead of EducationKeoni GavinoAcademy Administrative Assistant
Source: Official Seattle Sounders Academy Staff Directory
Who Is Wade Webber?
Wade Webber is Seattle Sounders' Director of Development.
Webber previously served as head coach of Tacoma Defiance.
He took charge of the professional second team in 2021 after working as an assistant coach.
During his tenure, Tacoma Defiance competed in both the USL Championship and MLS NEXT Pro.
Before that, Webber coached within Sounders Academy and held youth development responsibilities in Washington.
He also played professionally in MLS.
His current role connects youth development with the broader Sounders professional pathway.
Who Is Craig Dalrymple?
Craig Dalrymple is Seattle Sounders' Head of Pro Player Development.
Dalrymple previously served as an academy director at Vancouver Whitecaps FC and Inter Miami CF.
His experience includes youth development leadership and professional player development.
He joined Seattle Sounders in 2024.
His background is relevant to players approaching the transition from academy soccer into professional competition.
Who Is Ethan O'Neill?
Ethan O'Neill is Seattle Sounders Academy's U18 Head Coach.
O'Neill joined the Sounders in 2024.
Before joining Seattle, he worked as Boys Director of Coaching and ECNL Head Coach at Seattle United.
He also served as head coach of Ballard FC during the club's 2023 USL League Two championship season.
O'Neill holds a UEFA A coaching license.
His experience includes Irish youth soccer, American youth development, and competitive senior soccer.
For older academy players, the U18 coaching structure is particularly relevant because these players are approaching college or professional opportunities.
Who Is Matt Dorman?
Matt Dorman is Seattle Sounders Academy's U16 Head Coach.
Dorman was appointed to the position in August 2024.
Before that, he worked as an academy and Tacoma Defiance development analyst.
His previous experience includes Seattle United and Seattle Reign.
Dorman has also worked as an opposition scout for the United States women's national team and as a coach educator.
He holds a U.S. Soccer A coaching license.
Who Is Raphael Cox?
Raphael Cox is Seattle Sounders Academy's U15 Head Coach.
Cox joined the academy coaching staff in 2026.
Before joining Seattle, he worked as an assistant coach with the University of Washington women's soccer program.
His previous coaching experience includes San Diego State, Washington, Highline College, Seattle United, and Washington State Youth Soccer.
As a player, Cox competed professionally after being drafted by Real Salt Lake.
He was part of Real Salt Lake's 2009 MLS Cup-winning organization and later played in other American professional leagues.
Who Is Brayton Knapp?
Brayton Knapp is Seattle Sounders' Development Methodology Assistant and Analyst.
Knapp joined the organization in 2013.
His previous experience includes coaching with FC Portland, Crossfire Premier, Mercer Island FC, and Eastside FC.
His role focuses on player development methodology and analysis.
Who Is the Seattle Sounders Academy Goalkeeper Coach?
Seattle Sounders' broader coaching directory identifies:
Fred Bragaglia — Developmental Goalkeeper Coach
Lars Helleren — Academy Goalkeeping Coach
Goalkeepers interested in the academy should prepare footage demonstrating:
Shot-stopping
Positioning
One-on-one situations
Distribution
Aerial ability
Communication
Decision-making
Playing under pressure
Full-match footage is especially useful because it demonstrates how a goalkeeper performs outside highlight situations.
Search Seattle Sounders Academy Goalkeeper Coaching Contacts
What Age Groups Does Seattle Sounders Academy Have?
Seattle Sounders' official academy staff directory identifies U15, U16, and U18 head coaches.
The club also operates younger player development initiatives through its Discovery Program.
Its fall 2026 competition schedule includes U16, U17, and U19 match classifications.
This distinction matters because coaching assignments and competition age groups do not always use identical labels.
Seattle Sounders Academy Age Groups
Age groupPublished informationU8–U14Younger talent development through Discovery Program and partner-club pathwaysU15Academy team, Raphael Cox listed as Head CoachU16Academy team, Matt Dorman listed as Head CoachU17Appears in fall 2026 competition scheduleU18Academy team, Ethan O'Neill listed as Head CoachU19Appears in fall 2026 competition schedule
Players should confirm birth-year eligibility and team classifications for the specific season in which they hope to join.
Can a 12-Year-Old Join Seattle Sounders Academy?
Seattle Sounders identifies talented younger players through its Discovery Program and youth development partnerships.
The club's pathway information describes player identification beginning as young as U8.
However, participation in a younger development program does not guarantee admission to the full-time academy.
Can a 14-Year-Old Try Out for Seattle Sounders Academy?
Potentially.
Players in the appropriate birth-year category can submit their profiles for consideration.
The club's recruitment department determines whether an applicant should receive a trial invitation.
Does Seattle Sounders Academy Have a U15 Team?
Yes.
Raphael Cox is listed as U15 Head Coach.
Does Seattle Sounders Academy Have a U16 Team?
Yes.
Matt Dorman is listed as U16 Head Coach.
Does Seattle Sounders Academy Have a U17 Team?
The club's fall 2026 academy schedule includes U17 competition.
However, its staff directory identifies U18 rather than U17 as a head coaching assignment.
Players should confirm which team corresponds to their birth year.
Does Seattle Sounders Academy Have a U18 Team?
Yes.
Ethan O'Neill is listed as U18 Head Coach.
Does Seattle Sounders Academy Have a U19 Team?
The club's fall 2026 competition schedule includes U19 fixtures.
Players should verify the appropriate team classification and eligibility requirements for 2027.
What Is the Sounders Discovery Program?
The Sounders Discovery Program, commonly called SDP, is a talent identification and youth development initiative designed to identify promising young players.
Seattle Sounders uses the program to develop relationships with local youth clubs and evaluate players over time.
The club has described its Discovery Program as an important part of its academy recruitment system.
How Does the Sounders Discovery Program Work?
Seattle Sounders identifies young players through its youth development network.
The program allows the club to observe talented players and support their development before they potentially enter the full-time academy.
Its historical pathway information describes participation beginning as young as U8.
Can the Sounders Discovery Program Lead to the Academy?
Yes.
Seattle Sounders has documented several professional players who progressed through its Discovery Program before joining the academy.
Examples include:
Reed Baker-Whiting
Josh Atencio
Danny Leyva
These players later progressed into Tacoma Defiance and the Seattle Sounders first team.
However, Discovery Program participation does not guarantee academy admission or a professional contract.
Does Seattle Sounders Scout Local Youth Clubs?
Yes.
Seattle Sounders' academy pathway identifies Washington youth clubs as a primary source of players.
The club's scouting staff observe youth matches and evaluate players through its recruitment network.
The academy has developed players from organizations including:
Seattle United
Crossfire Premier
Eastside FC
Washington Premier FC
Pacific Northwest Soccer Club
These organizations appear in the club's published academy roster information.
Can Players From Outside Washington Join Sounders Academy?
Potentially.
Seattle Sounders has documented recruitment beyond Washington, including players from other parts of the United States.
The club's Academy Futures reporting also describes recruiting outside its traditional regional market.
However, players should carefully consider the academy's housing policy before applying.
Does Seattle Sounders Academy Provide Housing?
No. Seattle Sounders' official academy FAQ states that the club stopped providing housing in February 2024.
Players joining from outside the Greater Seattle area are responsible for arranging their own housing.
This is especially important for families considering relocation.
Before pursuing a trial, families should research:
Housing costs
Transportation
Schooling
Parent or guardian arrangements
Training schedules
Travel expenses
Eligibility requirements
A trial invitation does not automatically include housing or relocation assistance.
Official Seattle Sounders Academy FAQ
Where Does Seattle Sounders Academy Train?
Seattle Sounders' academy FAQ identifies Starfire Sports in Tukwila, Washington, as an academy training location.
The club's 2026 fall competition schedule also lists matches at the Providence Swedish Performance Center & Clubhouse.
Families should verify the exact training or trial location directly with the academy.
Is Seattle Sounders Academy Located in Seattle or Tukwila?
The academy operates in the Greater Seattle area.
Tukwila is a city south of Seattle where the club has historically trained.
The broader Sounders organization also uses facilities in Renton.
Where Is Starfire Sports?
Starfire Sports is located in Tukwila, Washington.
The facility has hosted Seattle Sounders Academy and Tacoma Defiance activities.
Can Academy Players Train With Professional Players?
Seattle Sounders' academy FAQ describes opportunities for selected academy players to train with professional staff and potentially participate in first-team training.
However, joining the academy does not guarantee regular training with the MLS first team.
How Does Seattle Sounders Academy Scout Players?
Seattle Sounders operates a structured scouting system.
The club's official recruitment page explains that academy scouts regularly attend youth soccer matches.
Scouting reports are reviewed by the academy's recruitment leadership.
What Do Seattle Sounders Academy Scouts Look For?
Seattle Sounders' pathway information emphasizes developing intelligent, independent players who can adapt to changing situations.
Players should demonstrate:
Technical ability
First touch and passing
Decision-making
Tactical awareness
Position-specific skills
Movement without the ball
Defensive work rate
Athletic potential
Coachability
Competitive mentality
Consistency
These are useful development priorities rather than an officially ranked scouting checklist.
Does Seattle Sounders Academy Review Highlight Videos?
Yes.
The club's published recruitment process describes reviewing player video and other available information.
A highlight video can help introduce a player.
However, full-match footage provides additional context about decision-making, movement, and consistency.
Can ECNL Players Join Seattle Sounders Academy?
Potentially.
Players from competitive youth clubs can submit applications and may be identified through scouting.
Selection depends on the academy's recruitment criteria and applicable eligibility requirements.
Can MLS NEXT Players Join Seattle Sounders Academy?
Potentially.
The club recruits talented youth players through its scouting network.
Transfers between youth development programs must comply with applicable registration rules.
Can Seattle Sounders Academy Players Become Professional Soccer Players?
Yes. Seattle Sounders has a documented development pathway connecting its academy with Tacoma Defiance and the MLS first team.
The club has developed numerous players who progressed into professional soccer.
A possible pathway is:
Seattle Sounders Academy → Tacoma Defiance → Seattle Sounders FC
Some academy graduates have also moved to professional clubs in Europe and Mexico.
Which Seattle Sounders Academy Players Have Reached Professional Soccer?
The club's official alumni directory identifies numerous professional graduates.
Jordan Morris
Jordan Morris developed through Seattle Sounders Academy before playing college soccer at Stanford University.
He later signed professionally with Seattle Sounders and became an established MLS player.
Morris also represented the United States men's national team.
His pathway demonstrates that academy players can pursue college soccer before signing professionally.
DeAndre Yedlin
DeAndre Yedlin developed through Seattle Sounders Academy before playing college soccer at the University of Akron.
He subsequently signed professionally with Seattle and moved into European soccer.
Yedlin also represented the United States internationally.
Obed Vargas
Obed Vargas developed through Seattle Sounders Academy and Tacoma Defiance before establishing himself in the MLS first team.
He represented Mexico at youth international level.
In 2026, Seattle Sounders announced his transfer to Atlético Madrid in Spain.
His progression demonstrates how the academy can lead to international professional opportunities.
Danny Leyva
Danny Leyva progressed through Seattle Sounders' youth development system before signing a Homegrown contract.
He gained professional experience with Tacoma Defiance and Seattle's MLS first team.
In 2026, the Sounders confirmed his move to Club Necaxa in Liga MX.
Reed Baker-Whiting
Reed Baker-Whiting entered the Sounders Discovery Program at age 11.
He progressed through the academy and Tacoma Defiance before signing a first-team Homegrown contract.
The club later confirmed his departure to Nashville SC.
His pathway illustrates the connection between Seattle's youth identification programs and professional soccer.
Josh Atencio
Josh Atencio developed through Seattle Sounders Academy before progressing into Tacoma Defiance and the MLS first team.
He became an established professional midfielder.
Cody Baker
Cody Baker progressed through Seattle Sounders' development system before earning a professional first-team opportunity.
The club has highlighted his pathway from youth soccer to MLS.
Jackson Ragen
Jackson Ragen developed through Seattle Sounders Academy before playing college soccer at the University of Michigan.
He later returned to the professional organization and became an MLS first-team defender.
Snyder Brunell
Snyder Brunell progressed through Seattle Sounders' youth development system and signed a Homegrown contract in 2025.
He subsequently received MLS first-team opportunities.
Stuart Hawkins
Stuart Hawkins is another Seattle Sounders Academy product who progressed into the club's professional development structure.
He has also represented the United States at youth international level.
Does Joining Seattle Sounders Academy Guarantee a Professional Contract?
No.
Academy participation does not guarantee a Tacoma Defiance contract, MLS first-team opportunity, or international transfer.
However, the club has documented numerous examples of academy graduates progressing into professional soccer.
Official Seattle Sounders Academy Alumni
What Is Tacoma Defiance?
Tacoma Defiance is Seattle Sounders FC's professional second team competing in MLS NEXT Pro.
The team provides a development environment for young players preparing for higher levels of professional soccer.
Academy graduates can gain experience competing against professional players before potentially reaching the MLS first team.
Is Tacoma Defiance the Same as Seattle Sounders Academy?
No.
Seattle Sounders Academy develops youth players.
Tacoma Defiance competes professionally in MLS NEXT Pro.
Seattle Sounders FC competes in Major League Soccer.
These programs are connected but operate at different competitive levels.
Can Seattle Sounders Academy Players Play for Tacoma Defiance?
Yes.
Seattle Sounders has repeatedly promoted academy players into Tacoma Defiance.
Obed Vargas, Danny Leyva, Reed Baker-Whiting, and Josh Atencio are examples of players who progressed through the development pathway.
Can Tacoma Defiance Players Reach MLS?
Yes.
The club has documented multiple players progressing from Tacoma Defiance into the Seattle Sounders first team.
However, playing for Tacoma Defiance does not guarantee an MLS contract.
Does Tacoma Defiance Have the Same Tryouts as Sounders Academy?
No.
Tacoma Defiance operates as a professional team with separate recruitment responsibilities.
An academy trial is not the same as a professional MLS NEXT Pro trial.
Can Seattle Sounders Academy Players Go to College?
Yes.
Seattle Sounders Academy has developed players who continued into NCAA soccer.
The club's official alumni directory identifies graduates who attended universities including:
Stanford University
University of Washington
University of Portland
University of North Carolina
University of Denver
San Diego State University
Gonzaga University
Yale University
University of Pennsylvania
Does Seattle Sounders Academy Help With College Recruitment?
Seattle Sounders' official academy FAQ states that academy staff help players with college recruitment.
The club describes having a network of college contacts and a history of graduates attending prominent universities.
Does Playing for Seattle Sounders Academy Affect NCAA Eligibility?
The club's FAQ states that academy participation does not automatically eliminate NCAA eligibility.
However, NCAA eligibility rules depend on a player's individual circumstances and can change.
Families should verify current NCAA regulations before signing contracts or accepting compensation.
How to Email Seattle Sounders Academy Coaches
For players and families pursuing academy opportunities, the most effective approach begins with the club's official recruitment process.
Step 1: Identify the Appropriate Age Group
Determine the player's birth-year eligibility.
Review the academy's current age-group structure and younger development programs.
Step 2: Research the Current Coaching Staff
Identify the academy leadership and relevant age-group coaches.
For example:
Henry Brauner — Technical Director
Xavi Bravo — Head of Academy Recruitment
Ethan O'Neill — U18 Head Coach
Matt Dorman — U16 Head Coach
Raphael Cox — U15 Head Coach
Verify assignments before sending inquiries.
Step 3: Find Available Professional Contact Information
This can be one of the most difficult steps.
A coach's name may be public while their individual email address is not.
Use Cancha Labs to search available coaching emails, phone numbers, and professional contacts associated with Seattle Sounders Academy.
Find Seattle Sounders Academy Coach Emails
Step 4: Prepare a Player Profile
Include:
Full name
Birth year
Primary and secondary positions
Current club
Current league
Previous playing experience
Highlight video
Full-match footage
Relevant achievements
Parent or guardian contact information
Step 5: Submit Through the Official Academy Application
Seattle Sounders provides an official player interest form.
The application is reviewed by the recruitment department.
Official Seattle Sounders Academy Player Application
Step 6: Follow Up Professionally
Seattle Sounders states that it contacts only applicants selected for a trial invitation.
Families should not assume that every application will receive a response.
If outside inquiries are welcome, one concise and respectful follow-up may be appropriate.
Seattle Sounders Academy Trial Email Template
Use this template when contacting academy staff who accept outside player inquiries.
Subject: Seattle Sounders Academy Player Evaluation Inquiry — [Birth Year] — [Position]
Hello Coach [Last Name],
My name is [Parent/Guardian Name], and I'm reaching out on behalf of my son, [Player Name], a [Birth Year] player currently competing for [Club Name] in [League].
We're interested in learning whether he could be considered for an evaluation with Seattle Sounders Academy.
He currently plays as a [Position], and his recent playing experience includes [Relevant Background or Achievements].
I've included his footage below:
Highlights: [Link]
Full Match: [Link]
Player Profile: [Link]
Would you be open to reviewing his profile or directing us to the appropriate academy recruitment process?
Thank you for your time.
[Parent/Guardian Name]
[Email / Phone]
This is a general recruitment inquiry template, not an official Seattle Sounders Academy trial application.
Families should follow the club's published recruitment procedures.
Can International Players Join Seattle Sounders Academy?
International players can research academy opportunities.
However, international transfers of minors are subject to FIFA regulations, applicable exceptions, immigration requirements, and registration rules.
An invitation to a trial does not automatically establish eligibility to register with the academy.
Can Players From Other MLS Academies Join Seattle Sounders?
Potentially.
Players may move between youth development programs when recruitment and registration requirements permit.
However, transfers depend on individual circumstances and applicable rules.
Can Players From California Join Seattle Sounders Academy?
Potentially.
Seattle Sounders has recruited players from outside Washington.
However, the club's official FAQ states that it does not provide academy housing.
Families considering relocation should research accommodation and education arrangements before accepting an invitation.
Where Can I Find MLS Academy Coach Emails?
Cancha Labs is a soccer coach contact search engine that helps players access available hard-to-find coaching emails, phone numbers, and club contacts across American soccer.
The platform covers multiple levels of the American soccer system.
CompetitionContact categoriesMLS AcademiesYouth academy coaches, directors, and development staffMLS NEXT ProProfessional second-team coaches and technical personnelUSL ChampionshipProfessional managers, coaches, and club staffUSL League OneProfessional coaching and technical personnelUSL League TwoPre-professional coaches and club contacts
Contact availability varies by club and individual.
Why Are MLS Academy Coach Emails Hard to Find?
Professional soccer academies often publish coaches' names and positions without publishing their direct contact information.
You might know exactly who coaches the U16 team.
But that doesn't mean you know how to reach that person.
Cancha Labs is not simply a directory of coaching names. Its value is helping users access available contact information associated with those coaches.
Can I Find Seattle Sounders Academy and Other Pacific Northwest Soccer Academies?
Yes.
Players can use Cancha Labs to research available contacts associated with multiple clubs.
If you're interested in academy opportunities in the Pacific Northwest, you might research:
Seattle Sounders Academy
Portland Timbers Academy
Vancouver Whitecaps Academy
Other competitive youth development programs
Each organization has its own recruitment policies.
Players should verify which academies accept outside inquiries before sending evaluation requests.
Search Seattle Sounders Academy Coach Emails
Why You Shouldn't Depend on One MLS Academy
If Seattle Sounders Academy is your dream club, research its coaching staff and follow its recruitment process.
But don't make one academy your entire development strategy.
The Pacific Northwest has numerous competitive youth soccer programs.
Some organizations recruit through established scouting networks.
Others identify players through youth club competition, development programs, and evaluation events.
Recruitment policies can change between seasons.
Research multiple academies that fit your age, playing level, and location.
Cancha Labs helps players access available coaching contacts across multiple clubs instead of depending exclusively on personal connections.
Find Soccer Coach Emails on Cancha Labs
Seattle Sounders Academy Tryouts and Coach Emails: Frequently Asked Questions
Does Seattle Sounders Academy have open tryouts in 2027?
As of November 2, 2026, a separate public schedule of unrestricted academy open tryouts specifically for 2027 was not verified. The club accepts player applications and may invite selected players to trials.
How do I apply for Seattle Sounders Academy?
Complete the official player interest form on the Seattle Sounders website.
Where can I find Seattle Sounders Academy coach emails?
Cancha Labs helps users research available coaching emails, phone numbers, and professional contacts associated with Seattle Sounders Academy.
How do I contact Seattle Sounders Academy coaches?
Research the current coaching staff, follow the club's official recruitment process, and use Cancha Labs to check for available professional contact information.
What is Seattle Sounders Academy's official email address?
The club publishes academy@soundersfc.com as its general academy contact.
Who is the Seattle Sounders Academy Technical Director?
Henry Brauner is the academy's Technical Director.
How can I find Henry Brauner's email address?
Search Seattle Sounders Academy on Cancha Labs to check for available professional contact information.
Who handles Seattle Sounders Academy recruitment?
Xavi Bravo is listed as Head of Academy Recruitment.
Who is the Seattle Sounders U18 Head Coach?
Ethan O'Neill is listed as U18 Head Coach.
Who is the Seattle Sounders U16 Head Coach?
Matt Dorman is listed as U16 Head Coach.
Who is the Seattle Sounders U15 Head Coach?
Raphael Cox is listed as U15 Head Coach.
Who is Seattle Sounders' Director of Development?
Wade Webber is listed as Director of Development.
Who is Seattle Sounders' Head of Pro Player Development?
Craig Dalrymple is listed as Head of Pro Player Development.
Does Seattle Sounders Academy have a U15 team?
Yes. Raphael Cox is listed as U15 Head Coach.
Does Seattle Sounders Academy have a U16 team?
Yes. Matt Dorman is listed as U16 Head Coach.
Does Seattle Sounders Academy have a U18 team?
Yes. Ethan O'Neill is listed as U18 Head Coach.
Does Seattle Sounders Academy have a U19 team?
The club's fall 2026 competition schedule includes U19 matches.
What is the Sounders Discovery Program?
It is a youth development and talent identification initiative that helps identify promising players for the academy.
Can the Sounders Discovery Program lead to the academy?
Yes. Seattle Sounders has documented players who progressed through the program into the academy and professional soccer.
Does Seattle Sounders Academy provide housing?
No. The club's official FAQ states that it stopped providing housing in February 2024.
Does Seattle Sounders Academy scout players?
Yes. The academy uses scouts, player applications, and youth development programs to identify talent.
Can you join Seattle Sounders Academy without an agent?
Yes. The club accepts individual player applications.
Where is Seattle Sounders Academy located?
The academy operates in the Greater Seattle area of Washington.
Is Seattle Sounders Academy the same as Tacoma Defiance?
No. The academy develops youth players, while Tacoma Defiance competes professionally in MLS NEXT Pro.
Can Seattle Sounders Academy players reach MLS?
Yes. The club has documented numerous academy graduates progressing into the MLS first team.
Did Jordan Morris play for Seattle Sounders Academy?
Yes. Morris developed through the academy before playing college soccer and signing professionally with Seattle.
Did DeAndre Yedlin play for Seattle Sounders Academy?
Yes. Yedlin developed through Seattle's academy before progressing into professional soccer.
Did Obed Vargas play for Seattle Sounders Academy?
Yes. Vargas developed through the academy and Tacoma Defiance before reaching MLS and transferring to Atlético Madrid in 2026.
Did Danny Leyva play for Seattle Sounders Academy?
Yes. Leyva developed through the academy before signing professionally and later moving to Club Necaxa.
Can Seattle Sounders Academy players go to college?
Yes. The club has documented academy graduates attending NCAA universities.
Can international players join Seattle Sounders Academy?
Potentially, subject to FIFA regulations concerning minors, immigration requirements, registration rules, and individual eligibility.
Can parents contact Seattle Sounders Academy coaches?
Parents or guardians can use the club's official recruitment process and research appropriate professional coaching contacts.
Does Cancha Labs guarantee Seattle Sounders Academy trials?
No. Cancha Labs provides contact research services and does not guarantee trials, coach responses, academy selection, or professional contracts.
Does Cancha Labs have every academy coach's email?
No. Contact availability varies by club and individual.
Where can I find MLS Academy coach emails in the USA?
Cancha Labs helps users research available coaching contacts across MLS academies, MLS NEXT Pro, USL Championship, USL League One, USL League Two, and other covered competitions.
Find Seattle Sounders Academy Coach Emails and Start Pursuing Opportunities
Seattle Sounders Academy offers one of the most established youth development pathways toward professional soccer in the United States.
The club has developed players who progressed into Tacoma Defiance, Major League Soccer, European professional soccer, and international competition.
Its recruitment system includes scouting, player applications, and youth development programs.
But if you're an aspiring youth player trying to reach the right people, there's still a major challenge.
Knowing who coaches Seattle Sounders Academy doesn't necessarily mean you have their email address.
Professional clubs may publish coaching names and job titles without making every individual recruitment contact readily accessible.
That's why Cancha Labs exists.
Cancha Labs helps players and families access available hard-to-find soccer coaching emails, phone numbers, and club contacts across the United States.
Players using the platform have reported securing trials with clubs in Liga MX, USL Championship, MLS NEXT Pro, and USL League Two through direct outreach.
Those results don't guarantee an opportunity with Seattle Sounders Academy or any other club.
But they demonstrate why access to the right contacts can matter.
If Seattle Sounders Academy is one of your target clubs, research the current coaching staff and follow its official recruitment process.
And if you're serious about developing as a soccer player, don't limit yourself to one organization.
Don't wait for a scout to be your only route into competitive soccer.
Prepare your footage.
Research realistic opportunities.
Find available contacts.
Submit your player profile through appropriate channels.
Find Seattle Sounders Academy Coach Emails on Cancha Labs
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Last reviewed: November 2, 2026. Academy coaching assignments, contact availability, recruitment procedures, age-group structures, and tryout policies may change. Cancha Labs is an independent soccer contact research service and is not affiliated with Seattle Sounders FC, Seattle Sounders Academy, Tacoma Defiance, or Major League Soccer. Customer-reported trial outcomes are not guarantees of future results.