Sounders FC is proud to continue its annual celebration of Latine Heritage Month this fall. As part of the club’s commitment to advance equity in play and life, the Rave Green are celebrating the diversity of culture and heritage within the Latine community through Latine Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15.
Sounders FC recognizes the complexity of the language used to observe Latine Heritage Month. The club is committed to supporting individuals of all backgrounds and chooses to use the term “Latine” to foster the most inclusive environment for all. Through this gender-inclusive language, the club supports those who do not identify within the gender binary and acknowledges the intersectional identities held by the Seattle soccer community. While this language aligns with the club's organizational values, fans are encouraged to identify in whichever ways feel most true to themselves.
Ridgeview Elementary Mini-Pitch Opening
With RAVE Foundation and Seattle Reign FC, Sounders FC is excited to begin the month’s celebrations by opening two new mini-pitches at Ridgeview Elementary School in Yakima on Wednesday, September 16. The day’s celebrations will include an all-school assembly and a soccer ball giveaway for all Ridgeview students followed by a free community celebration beginning at 4:30 p.m. The addition of these two free play fields further increases youth access to soccer in a predominantly Latine community and extends RAVE Foundation’s total number of mini-pitches opened to 50 to date.
Fiestas Patrias at Seattle Center
Sounders FC is returning to Sea Mar’s Fiestas Patrias on Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20! This community celebration of Latine culture and traditions is part of a free two-day event in which the public is invited to come and enjoy traditional Latin American food, live music, traditional folk-dance performances and more.
RAVE Foundation is joining the club on Saturday, September 19 to host soccer clinics from noon to 3:00 p.m. with all participants receiving a free soccer ball. On both days, attendees can enter to win Sounders prizes and join Sounders FC’s Vamos Sounders Club.
Celebrate on Matchday
On Saturday, September 26, the club is centering and celebrating its Spanish-speaking community with its Vamos Sounders Celebration when the Rave Green takes on Minnesota United. In collaboration with key community organizations, the club’s Vamos Sounders Celebration match brings fans a heightened matchday experience unlike any other – cultivated by and for members of the Latine community.
The club is partnering with Aquí Mercado to bring a pop-up market focused on the Latine and Queer community in Seattle. Beginning when gates open, fans can explore 19 booths featuring local vendors, community organizations and the club’s own Vamos Sounders Club. The mercado will run through the duration of the match and end 90 minutes after the match’s final whistle.
Sounders FC has also teamed up with a special artist to tell the community's story through an exclusive matchday collection, including a poster gate giveaway and limited-edition merchandise, with a special offer just for Vamos Sounders Club members. More details will be announced ahead of matchday.
Fans can join Sounders’ Vamos Sounders Club ahead of matchday to unlock exclusive member benefits and experiences.
Support Latine-owned Businesses
In continuation of our ongoing partnership with Intentionalist, we are encouraging fans to #SpendLikeItMatters at Latine-owned businesses this Latine Heritage Month. Fans can upload their receipt from a purchase made at Latine-owned small businesses from September 15 to October 15 and be entered to win Sounders FC prizes. With your help, we can achieve our goal of catalyzing $40,000 in spending at Latine-owned small businesses. You can find a Latine-owned business near you here. Fans can also support Latine-owned food vendors on matchday through our featured food trucks in the North Plaza!
