MLS Seattle Sounders FC has officially inked a deal to acquire homegrown defender Stuart Hawkins, securing his presence within the squad until the culmination of the 2026 season, while club options for 2027 and 2028 add a layer of future promise to this exciting acquisition, as declared by the club in a statement issued this Wednesday.

At the tender age of 16, hailing from the picturesque Fox Island, Washington, this young talent is poised for a remarkable ascent into the first-team ranks. His journey to this pivotal juncture has been marked by nearly two seasons of dedicated service for the club’s esteemed MLS NEXT Pro affiliate, Tacoma Defiance.

Interestingly, Hawkins embarked on his voyage with the Sounders FC Academy at the tender age of 12, a testament to his early promise and undeniable talent. This year, he garnered the prestigious MLS NEXT All-Star Game accolade presented by the renowned Allstate, a recognition he has earned for the second consecutive year. Moreover, in 2022, his stellar performances led to him being crowned the Most Valuable Player of the 2022 U-17 Generation ADIDAS Cup, a remarkable feat that played a pivotal role in propelling the Sounders FC Academy to clinch its second consecutive championship title.

Craig Waibel, the Chief Soccer Officer and General Manager of Sounders FC, expressed his heartfelt congratulations to Stuart. He acknowledged the bright future that lies ahead for this budding talent. According to Waibel, Stuart’s commendable journey, marked by outstanding performances in both the Academy and Defiance, sets the stage for a promising professional career. The club eagerly anticipates witnessing his continued growth and development in the realm of professional soccer.

Hawkins, with his exceptional skills and dedication, has proudly donned the United States national colors in international competitions. Stuart Hawkins, a rising star in the world of soccer, embarked on a remarkable journey representing the U-16-17 national teams. His exceptional talent shone brightly on the global stage. What’s truly notable is his recent call-up to the U-17 squad for a prestigious tournament hosted in the Czech Republic. This significant achievement not only underscores his unwavering commitment but also symbolizes the nation’s meticulous preparation for the impending 2023 U-17 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to captivate audiences in Indonesia later this year.