SEATTLE, WASH. – Seattle Sounders FC 2 today announced that it has signed forwards Alec Diaz and Danny Robles to professional contracts for the 2019 season. The signings are pending USL and U.S. Soccer Federation approval, and Diaz and Robles will continue to be recognized as Sounders FC Academy players on this season’s roster. The 16-year-olds were each part of the Sounders Academy U-17 squad that won the USSDA National Championship in July, and are products of Sounders FC partner club, Pacific Northwest Soccer Club.
“Alec and Danny had a tremendous run with the U-17’s during the national championship campaign, and they’re ready to take the next step and join S2,” Sounders FC General Manager & President of Soccer Garth Lagerwey said. “This is the next phase in their development, with the hope that they ultimately transition into a spot with the First Team down the road.”
Diaz has scored 36 goals in 38 games across all competitions this season, while Robles has tallied 14 strikes in 44 matches across all competitions. They each made their S2 debut in the second half of the September 5 contest against Tulsa Roughnecks FC at Cheney Stadium in Tacoma, having previously signed USL academy contracts. Diaz saw 31 minutes of action in the 4-4 draw, and Robles played 45 minutes and fired one shot on goal.
“We are thoroughly delighted to add Alec and Danny to the future S2 roster,” said Sounders FC Director of Player Development Marc Nicholls. “Alec has a phenomenal goal-scoring record and has continued to rapidly improve in all facets of the game. Danny is a creative player, has an eye for the final pass and leads by example. It’s quite fitting that they have signed together. They both came through partner club Pacific Northwest Soccer Club and have a role to play in each other’s development. Danny often provides an assist to Alec’s goals.”
“Alec and Danny are talented goal-scorers that will add a great punch to our group of forwards next season,” said S2 Head Coach John Hutchinson. “They have already impressed us with their contributions to the team this season, and we’re excited about the future.”
S2 is 5-20-5 this season and returns to action on Wednesday, October 3 with a home match vs. LA Galaxy II at Cheney Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. PT, and the game can be streamed on ESPN+.
Transactions: Sounders FC 2 signs forwards Alec Diaz and Danny Robles to contracts for the 2019 USL season.
Name: Alec Diaz
Position: Forward
Height: 5-9
Weight: 154
Born: December 7, 2001 in Issaquah, Washington
Hometown: Issaquah, Washington
Citizenship: United States
Name: Danny Robles
Position: Forward
Height: 5-5
Weight: 154
Born: January 4, 2002 in Burien, Washington
Hometown: Burien, Washington
Citizenship: United States
