Celebrating Visionary Leadership
The Honorary Chairman is a cornerstone of our tradition—a role determined by the Alliance Council that reflects the spirit of fan-driven democracy. This page honors those whose leadership has shaped the Sounders community and continues to inspire our future.
Brian Schmetzer (2017-present)
There are few people who make the lasting connections that Brian Schmetzer makes: the kind that members of our community and our team will always remember. Brian has a way of making people step up because they want to. He has a way of making deep personal connections within the community because he has no other way of being – it’s just who he is.
Facing last place – bottom of the table – a daunting position for anyone, he mapped out a plan to take the club to the top and told everyone what he needed from them to get there: simply and effectively. Because he does not let opposition get in his way, because he puts the community first, because he sees a way to victory in obstacles: our Honorary Chairperson starting with the 2017 season is Coach Brian Schmetzer.
Drew Carey (2009-2016)
The first Honorary Chairperson and Creator of the Alliance, he is possibly the most high-profile supporter of soccer in the United States. As an actor/comedian Drew Carey brought his over-enthusiasm and creative thinking to Sounders FC when he joined the ownership group.
Who conceived the idea of a supporters association which would have a say in the club’s direction? It was Drew. How about the contest to name the team? Drew, too. And who’s brainstorm resulted in the club’s signature marching band? Uh, that would be Drew again.
Says Carey: “I was mostly interested in spreading the gospel of fan control over the team’s management, like they have at Real Madrid and Barcelona. It had nothing, really, to do with wanting to own a business. We’re all excited about bringing democracy to sports in America.”
Carey can be seen daily on the CBS Network as host of The Price is Right. He starred in the Drew Carey Show on ABC from 1995-2004 and the improv showcase Whose Line is It Anyway? from 1998-2006.
Ready to get involved?
Join us in honoring these trailblazing leaders and become part of a movement that puts fans first. Learn more about our work or discover how you can contribute to shaping the future of Seattle Sounders FC.
Sounders FC Alliance Council 