The Homegrown Player Spotlight presented by American Family Insurance celebrates the local talent shaping the future of Sounders FC. Through personal stories of development rooted in Seattle’s rich soccer culture, fans will follow the journeys of players who dreamt of playing for Sounders FC, and rose through our academy to the First Team.
2026
2026
Cody Baker turns boyhood dream into reality with the Sounders
Cody Baker grew up dreaming of playing for the Sounders and now, he’s doing it. After rising through every level of the club’s pathway, he’s now making his mark with the First Team.
2025
2025
Snyder Brunell's consistency paves way to First Team opportunity
This past August, midfielder Snyder Brunell made it to the big leagues, signing a Homegrown contract to the Seattle Sounders. It was a special moment for the 18-year-old, achieving something he’s worked toward since a young age. But it was even more significant knowing that he would be kickstarting his MLS career at his hometown club.
Danny Leyva’s rise to the First Team driven by his impact on and off the pitch
Originally from Las Vegas, Danny Leyva moved to the Pacific Northwest at 14 to chase his professional soccer dreams. Rising quickly through the Sounders Pathway, he became the youngest Homegrown Player to sign with the First Team and continues to make an impact at the club today.
Reed Baker-Whiting continues upward trajectory within Sounders organization
From joining the Sounders Discovery Program at age 11 to becoming a key member of the First Team, Reed Baker-Whiting has steadily risen through the organization and continues to thrive as a vital part of the Sounders squad.