Sounders FC Signs Forward Will Bates

RENTON, WASH. – Seattle Sounders FC has signed forward Will Bates, the club announced today. Per Major League Soccer and club policy, terms were not disclosed. 

Bates, 22, was selected by Sounders FC with the fifth overall selection in the 2013 MLS Supplemental Draft on January 22. The former University of Virginia forward joined Sounders FC training in early February. 

"Will is dangerous in the box and always plays hard," said Sounders FC Sporting Director Chris Henderson. "He can score with both feet and with his head. He provides us with depth at forward and we are excited to have him in Seattle."

Bates appeared in 77 matches over four seasons at Virginia, tallying 46 goals with 10 assists. He finished his collegiate career as the seventh leading goal scorer in school history, tied for third with 15 game-winning goals and finished ninth in career points (102). Bates was a member of the U.S. U-20 National Team and he was named to the 2012 MAC Hermann Trophy Watch List.

Additionally, the club has waived defender Andrew Duran. Selected by Seattle with the 15th overall pick in the 2012 MLS SuperDraft, Duran did not make an appearance for Sounders FC and spent part of last season on loan to the Atlanta Silverbacks of the North American Soccer League. 

Sounders FC visits the Colorado Rapids on Saturday. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. PT from Dick's Sporting Goods Park and will be televised locally on KONG 6/16.