Houston Dynamo FC
Houston Dynamo FC is an American professional men's soccer club based in Houston, Texas, that competes in Major League Soccer (MLS) as a member of the Western Conference.[1]
Established on December 15, 2005, through the relocation of the San Jose Earthquakes franchise—prompted by the inability to secure a suitable stadium in San Jose—the Dynamo inherited the Earthquakes' players and staff to begin play in the 2006 season.[2][3]
The club quickly established itself as a powerhouse, winning the MLS Cup in its inaugural 2006 season and repeating the feat in 2007, both times defeating the New England Revolution in the final.[4][5]
Houston Dynamo FC plays its home matches at Shell Energy Stadium, a soccer-specific venue with a capacity of approximately 22,000 that opened in 2012.[6][7]
The team's primary colors are wildcatter orange and raven black, reflecting elements of Houston's identity.[8]
Beyond its MLS successes, the Dynamo has claimed the U.S. Open Cup in 2018 and 2023, underscoring its competitive resilience in domestic competitions.[5][4]
History
Founding and inaugural MLS Cup victory (2005–2006)
The Houston Dynamo FC originated from the relocation of the San Jose Earthquakes franchise by owner Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG) to Houston in late 2005, prompted by unsuccessful efforts to secure a suitable stadium in San Jose.[2] The move was announced on November 16, 2005, with the club officially established on December 15, 2005, retaining the Earthquakes' players, staff, and head coach Dominic Kinnear.[9] Initially named Houston 1836 on January 25, 2006, to commemorate the city's founding year, the name faced backlash for perceived historical insensitivity and was changed to Houston Dynamo in April 2006, evoking the region's energy industry and dynamism.[2] In their inaugural 2006 Major League Soccer season, the Dynamo played home matches at Robertson Stadium on the University of Houston campus, drawing an average attendance of 20,197.[10] Under Kinnear's leadership, the team compiled a regular-season record of 11 wins, 13 draws, and 8 losses, accumulating 46 points and securing first place in the Western Conference.[11] Key contributors included forward Brian Ching, who led the team with 9 goals, and goalkeeper Pat Onstad, pivotal in defensive efforts. The Dynamo advanced through the playoffs by defeating the Dallas FC 4-3 on aggregate in the conference semifinals and Chivas USA 4-2 on aggregate in the conference finals.[12] The season culminated in the MLS Cup on November 12, 2006, at Pizza Hut Park in Frisco, Texas, where the Dynamo faced the New England Revolution. After a 1-1 draw in regulation and extra time—marked by Ching's 83rd-minute equalizer offsetting Taylor Twellman's earlier goal—the match proceeded to penalty kicks. Onstad saved two penalties, and Houston converted four of theirs to win 4-3, claiming the MLS Cup in their first year of existence as the first expansion team to do so since 1998.[13] This victory established the Dynamo as an immediate force in MLS, building on the relocated franchise's prior successes while marking a new chapter in Houston's soccer history.[4]Back-to-back championships and early dominance (2007)
In the 2007 MLS regular season, the Houston Dynamo achieved a record of 15 wins, 8 losses, and 7 draws, totaling 52 points and securing second place in the Western Conference behind Chivas USA.[14] The team posted a strong home record of 8 wins, 4 losses, and 3 draws at Robertson Stadium, while earning 7 away wins, their league-high mark, contributing to an overall away record of 7-3-5.[14] Defensively, the Dynamo excelled under goalkeeper Pat Onstad, setting an MLS record with a 695-minute shutout streak across multiple matches, including a 0-0 draw against Toronto FC on July 15.[15] This run underscored their early-season resilience despite a slow start, as they won only two of their first eight games before surging to dominance.[16] Entering the playoffs as the defending champions, the Dynamo faced FC Dallas in the Western Conference Semifinals. Dallas took a 1-0 lead in the first leg on October 27 at Pizza Hut Park via a Clarence Goodson goal off a loose ball, but Houston responded decisively in the second leg on November 2 at Robertson Stadium, routing Dallas 4-1 behind a hat-trick from midfielder Ricardo Clark—his goals coming in the 11th, 61st, and 65th minutes—to advance 4-2 on aggregate.[17] This victory extended their Texas Derby superiority, having gone 6-1-2 against Dallas in regular-season play across 2006 and 2007.[17] In the Western Conference Final on November 10 at Robertson Stadium, the Dynamo defeated the Kansas City Wizards 2-0 before a club-record playoff crowd of 30,972, with goals from Brian Ching and Dwayne De Rosario sealing their berth in MLS Cup.[18] The match highlighted their tactical discipline under coach Dominic Kinnear, who leveraged a balanced attack led by forwards like Ching and De Rosario alongside midfield control from Clark.[18] The season culminated in the MLS Cup on November 18 at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C., where Houston rallied from a 0-1 halftime deficit against the New England Revolution—Taylon Twellman had scored in the 29th minute—to win 2-1.[19] Ricardo Clark equalized in the 76th minute, and De Rosario netted the decisive goal in the 83rd, earning him Man of the Match honors and cementing the Dynamo's status as only the second MLS team to win consecutive titles.[19][20] This repeat championship affirmed the Dynamo's early-era hegemony, built on defensive fortitude, clutch playoff performances, and key contributions from core players retained from their 2006 inaugural triumph.[16]Post-championship transition and partnerships (2008–2010)
In the years immediately following their consecutive MLS Cup triumphs in 2006 and 2007, Houston Dynamo FC navigated a period of roster evolution and strategic shifts while maintaining playoff contention before a sharper decline. Under head coach Dominic Kinnear, who had led the team to both titles, the Dynamo posted a 13–5–12 record (wins–losses–draws) in 2008, accumulating 51 points and securing second place in the Western Conference. This performance qualified them for the MLS playoffs, where they advanced to the conference semifinals but fell to the New York Red Bulls. The season included participation in the 2008–09 CONCACAF Champions League as defending MLS champions, though they exited early with a 1–4 aggregate defeat to Atlante FC in the quarterfinals. Roster adjustments featured the integration of midfielders like Ricardo Clark and forward Brian Ching as core contributors, amid efforts to blend veteran leadership with emerging talent following the high of back-to-back championships.[21][22] The 2009 campaign sustained competitiveness, with a 13–9–8 record yielding 48 points and a third-place Western Conference finish, again earning a playoff berth. Houston reached the Western Conference final, only to lose 2–0 to the Los Angeles Galaxy in a match noted for unusual referee decisions and defensive lapses. Off the field, the club emphasized youth development, highlighted by the Dynamo Academy's victory in the 2008 Dallas Cup, signaling investments in long-term talent pipelines as part of post-championship sustainability. Competitions extended to the North American SuperLiga, where Houston advanced but ultimately fell short of the title. Core players such as Ching (who scored key goals) and Brad Davis anchored the squad, though subtle transitions in depth— including signings like forward Dwayne De Rosario—reflected adaptations to league expansion and rival strengthening.[23][24][25] By 2010, performance waned markedly, with a 9–6–15 record totaling 33 points, placing the team seventh in the Western Conference and out of playoff contention for the first time since inception. This drop correlated with injuries, aging key contributors, and integration challenges for newcomers, underscoring the difficulties of sustaining elite form without the championship momentum. Kinnear remained at the helm, but the season's struggles prompted introspection on tactical rigidity and squad depth. A pivotal off-field development emerged in December 2010, when the club forged a public-private partnership with Harris County and the Houston Sports Authority to develop a dedicated 20,000–22,000-seat soccer-specific stadium, marking a foundational shift toward infrastructure independence from shared university venues like Robertson Stadium. This agreement, driven by owner Philip Anschutz's investment group, laid groundwork for enhanced fan engagement and operational stability, representing a key institutional partnership amid on-field transitions.[26]Eastern Conference competition and playoff contention (2011–2014)
In 2011, Major League Soccer realigned conferences to accommodate expansion teams Portland Timbers and Vancouver Whitecaps FC in the Western Conference, prompting the Dynamo to shift from the West to the East alongside Sporting Kansas City.[27] The team finished second in the Eastern Conference with a record of 12 wins, 9 losses, and 13 draws, securing 51 points and clinching a playoff berth.[28] Under head coach Dominic Kinnear, Houston advanced through the Eastern Conference semifinals by defeating the Philadelphia Union 3–1 on aggregate (2–1 home, 1–0 away), then triumphed 2–0 over Sporting Kansas City in the conference final to claim the Eastern Conference championship.[29] Goals from Will Bruin and Jermaine Taylor sealed the final, highlighting the team's defensive solidity led by goalkeeper Tally Hall, who recorded 12 clean sheets during the regular season.[30] This propelled them to MLS Cup, where they fell 1–0 to the Los Angeles Galaxy, marking their third appearance in the final but extending a streak of consecutive runner-up finishes.[28] The 2012 season saw continued contention amid a competitive Eastern Conference featuring strong sides like Sporting Kansas City and D.C. United. Houston ended fifth with 15 wins, 11 losses, and 8 draws for 53 points, qualifying via the knockout round where they edged the Chicago Fire 2–1.[31] They followed with a 2–1 aggregate semifinal victory over Sporting Kansas City (2–0 home, 0–1 away) and a 3–2 aggregate conference final win against D.C. United (1–1 away, 2–1 home), earning another Eastern Conference title.[32] Midfielder Brad Davis contributed 9 goals and 13 assists, underpinning the attack, while the defense conceded just 34 goals in the regular season.[33] However, in MLS Cup, the Galaxy again prevailed 3–1, underscoring Houston's postseason resilience against Western Conference dominance despite geographic challenges in cross-country travel.[31] Houston sustained playoff contention in 2013, finishing fourth in the East with 14 wins, 9 losses, and 11 draws for 53 points.[34] A 2–1 knockout-round win over D.C. United advanced them to the conference semifinals, where they overcame the New York Red Bulls, but a 2–1 loss to Sporting Kansas City in the Eastern Conference final ended their bid for a third straight title.[35] [36] Boniek García's midfield presence and timely goals from Giles Barnes proved pivotal, though inconsistent form and injuries hampered regular-season momentum.[34] By 2014, injuries to key players like Tally Hall and Jermaine Taylor disrupted cohesion, resulting in an eighth-place Eastern Conference finish of 11 wins, 6 losses, and 17 draws for 39 points, marking the first missed playoffs since 2010.[37] [38] The campaign exposed vulnerabilities against rivals like Sporting Kansas City and the New York Red Bulls, with defensive lapses contributing to 59 goals conceded, ending a streak of three consecutive Eastern Conference finals appearances.[39]Realignment challenges and mid-tier performance (2015–2017)
Following Major League Soccer's conference realignment announced on October 27, 2014, the Dynamo shifted from the Eastern Conference back to the Western Conference for the 2015 season to accommodate expansion teams Orlando City SC and New York City FC in the East.[40] This move placed Houston in a highly competitive Western Conference, where the previous ten MLS Cup finalists were concentrated, intensifying competition and scheduling demands.[40] The realignment also revived the full Texas Derby series against FC Dallas but exposed the team to stronger Western rivals like Sporting Kansas City, contributing to adaptation struggles amid roster turnover after missing the 2014 playoffs.[40][41] Under new head coach Owen Coyle, appointed December 9, 2014, to replace Dominic Kinnear, the Dynamo recorded 11 wins, 9 draws, and 14 losses for 42 points in 2015, finishing eighth in the Western Conference and missing the playoffs for the second straight year.[41][42] Defensive vulnerabilities persisted, with the team conceding more goals than playoff qualifiers, while offensive output relied on forwards like Will Bruin but lacked consistency against Western powerhouses.[41] Coyle's implementation of a more attacking style yielded early promise but faltered in key matches, underscoring challenges in integrating new signings amid the conference shift.[41] The 2016 season began with a franchise-record 11 goals in the first three games, but a midseason collapse led to Coyle's mutual departure on May 25 after a 3-7-2 start marred by a 0-6-0 road record and defensive breakdowns.[43][44] Wade Barrett served as interim coach, guiding the team to a 6-17-11 finish and last place in the West with 29 points, the club's worst regular-season performance and third consecutive playoff absence.[45] Injuries and roster instability exacerbated issues, with the team winless on the road until late and unable to capitalize on home form at BBVA Compass Stadium.[45] Wilmer Cabrera assumed the head coaching role on October 28, 2016, implementing a pragmatic approach that yielded a 13-10-11 record and 50 points in 2017, securing fourth place in the Western Conference.[46] The Dynamo dominated at home with a 12-4-1 mark but struggled away (1-7-9), reflecting ongoing adaptation to Western travel and rivalries.[47] Forward Erick Torres led with 14 goals, fueling a playoff push. In the postseason, Houston defeated Sporting Kansas City 1-0 in the knockout round, advanced past Portland Timbers with a 2-1 aggregate in the conference semifinals, but fell 2-0 aggregate to Seattle Sounders FC in the Western Conference Final on November 29, 2017.[48] This run highlighted mid-tier resilience but exposed limitations against elite defenses, capping a period of transition marked by coaching changes and realignment pressures.[46]Resurgence, US Open Cup wins, and stadium opening (2018–2021)
Following a last-place finish in the Western Conference in 2017, the Houston Dynamo began a partial resurgence in 2018 under head coach Wilmer Cabrera, who had assumed the role on an interim basis late the prior year and received a contract extension in March.[49] The team hosted key matches at BBVA Compass Stadium, leveraging the venue's home advantage during a season that saw improved cohesion after a slow start.[50] The season's pinnacle was the club's first U.S. Open Cup triumph, culminating in a 3–0 victory over the Philadelphia Union in the final on September 26, 2018, at BBVA Compass Stadium.[51] Mauro Manotas scored twice, with Tomás Rodríguez adding a late goal, capping a run that included penalty shootout wins over Los Angeles FC in the semifinals and other MLS sides earlier.[52] [53] This title provided a highlight amid an otherwise middling MLS campaign, where the Dynamo qualified for the playoffs but exited in the conference semifinals.[51] Veteran DaMarcus Beasley offered leadership, while Manotas emerged as a key scorer in both competitions.[53] Cabrera's tenure ended in August 2019 after a winless streak contributed to another playoff miss, with assistant Davy Arnaud serving as interim coach for the remainder of the year.[54] Tab Ramos was appointed head coach in October 2019, guiding the team through the abbreviated 2020 MLS season, which featured a group stage format in a central "bubble" due to the COVID-19 pandemic and resulted in early elimination. Ramos' contract expired without renewal after the 2021 season, during which the Dynamo again failed to reach the playoffs despite some tactical adjustments.[55] BBVA Compass Stadium remained central to operations, hosting home fixtures and fostering fan engagement amid these transitions, though the period post-2018 saw inconsistent results.[56]Recent seasons: Record points and playoff pushes (2022–2025)
In the 2022 MLS season, Houston Dynamo FC recorded 10 wins, 6 draws, and 18 losses, accumulating 36 points and finishing 10th in the Western Conference, which resulted in missing the playoffs for the fifth consecutive year.[57] The team's performance was hampered by defensive inconsistencies and an inability to secure consistent road results, with only 4 away wins. The 2023 season marked a resurgence under head coach Ben Olsen, as the Dynamo achieved 12 wins, 8 draws, and 14 losses for 44 points, securing 6th place in the Western Conference and returning to the MLS Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2017.[58] In the postseason, they advanced past the first round by defeating Sporting Kansas City 1–0 before progressing to the Western Conference Semifinals, where they were eliminated. This playoff push coincided with a successful U.S. Open Cup campaign, culminating in a victory that qualified them for the 2024 CONCACAF Champions Cup. Houston Dynamo FC set a club record for points in the 2024 regular season with 54 points from a 15–9–10 record (wins–draws–losses), finishing 7th in the Western Conference and clinching a playoff berth.[59] The achievement was bolstered by a strong road performance, including a franchise-high 8 away wins, and key contributions from forwards like Ezequiel Ponce. However, in the playoffs, they were ousted in the first round by Seattle Sounders FC after a 1–1 aggregate draw decided by penalties (6–7).[60][61] The 2025 season saw the Dynamo compile a 9–10–15 record for 37 points, placing them outside the playoff positions in the Western Conference despite a late push that kept them in contention until the penultimate match.[62] A 4–2 loss to San Diego FC on October 4 eliminated their postseason hopes, ending a streak of consecutive playoff appearances and highlighting challenges in maintaining the prior year's momentum amid injuries and inconsistent finishing.[63]Club identity
Name origin and branding decisions
The franchise, relocated from San Jose as the Earthquakes' successor, was initially named Houston 1836 on January 4, 2006, to commemorate the city's founding year and Texas's declaration of independence from Mexico.[2] This choice aimed to evoke historical pride but faced immediate backlash from Houston's Mexican-American community, who associated 1836 with the Texas Revolution's decisive battles, including San Jacinto, resulting in Mexican defeat and perceived cultural insensitivity.[64] In response to the protests and to broaden appeal in a diverse market with a significant Hispanic population, ownership abandoned the name after less than two months.[2] On March 6, 2006, the team unveiled "Houston Dynamo," selected for its connotations of energy, power, movement, and speed—attributes aligning with Houston's identity as the global energy capital, home to major oil, gas, and electricity sectors.[2][65] The name also referenced the short-lived Houston Dynamos, a lower-division club that operated from 1984 to 1991, providing a nod to local soccer heritage without evoking controversy.[2] Branding evolved further in November 2020, when the club rebranded as Houston Dynamo FC, appending "Football Club" to signal institutional maturity, international aspirations, and alignment with global soccer norms after 14 seasons.[66] This coincided with a redesigned crest—a bold, hexagonal emblem incorporating a stylized "D" intertwined with Bayou City motifs like interlocking links symbolizing community and resilience—marking the first major visual update to unify identity across the men's and affiliated women's teams.[67] The shift followed a two-year design process emphasizing Houston's resilient spirit over transient trends, prioritizing fan ownership and regional authenticity.[66]Colors, crest, and kit evolution
The primary colors of Houston Dynamo FC are electric orange (#F15A22), raven black (#1D1D1D), and white, reflecting the club's branding since its 2006 inception.[8] These hues draw from Houston's cultural and historical palette, with electric orange symbolizing energy and vitality. In November 2020, the club introduced championship silver as an additional color to commemorate its MLS Cup victories.[66] Space City blue has appeared in select branding and kits, particularly in recent designs honoring the city's space exploration heritage.[68] The club's crest evolved significantly during a 2020 rebrand coinciding with the name change to Houston Dynamo Football Club. The original 2006 badge incorporated a starburst element representing player energy on the pitch, paired with core branding motifs.[69] The updated primary crest adopted a hexagonal shape, denoting the 2006 founding year and Houston's six original wards, featuring a black background with an interlocking "H" and "D" monogram inspired by the city's bayou waterways.[66] This design emphasizes "HOUSTON" in bold lettering above "DYNAMO FC," promoting city pride and club unity, developed in collaboration with Houston-based agency 9thWonder over two years.[67] Houston Dynamo FC kits, manufactured by adidas since the team's MLS debut in 2006, have centered on electric orange for home jerseys, often with black shorts and socks for a bold, consistent identity dubbed "#ForeverOrange."[70] Early kits emphasized solid orange tops with minimal patterns, evolving to include sponsor integrations like BHP Billiton starting in 2014. The 2020 rebrand aligned kits with the new hexagonal crest, incorporating championship silver accents. Special editions, such as the 2024 "Still Holdin'" kit extending the 2020 "Hold It Down" campaign, featured neckline slogans reinforcing fan loyalty. The 2025 Season 20 home kit revives the 2006 aesthetic by blending electric orange with Space City blue accents, celebrating two decades of history while honoring original supporters.[71][72] Away and alternate kits have varied, typically in black, white, or blue, adapting to opponents while maintaining core color principles.[73]Venues and facilities
Shell Energy Stadium
Shell Energy Stadium is a soccer-specific, open-air venue located at 2200 Texas Avenue in downtown Houston, Texas, which has served as the primary home for Houston Dynamo FC since its inauguration.[74] The stadium opened on May 12, 2012, with an initial seating capacity of 22,000, marking the first Major League Soccer facility constructed in the urban core of a major U.S. metropolitan area.[75] [7] Construction began in February 2011 following a December 2010 agreement for the project, funded in part by a $20 million, 10-year naming rights deal with BBVA Compass Bank, and concluded in April 2012 at a total footprint of 340,000 square feet.[75] The stadium's naming rights have undergone several transitions reflective of corporate sponsorship changes. Originally BBVA Compass Stadium from 2012 to 2019, it became BBVA Stadium in 2019 after the bank's rebranding, then PNC Stadium in 2021 following PNC's acquisition of BBVA USA, before adopting its current name, Shell Energy Stadium, under a multiyear agreement announced on January 17, 2023.[76] [77] The Shell partnership includes sustainability initiatives, such as LED lighting upgrades, a solar array installation, electric vehicle charging stations, and a goal to reduce emissions by 50% from a 2018 baseline by 2026.[74] Designed with soccer in mind, the stadium features premium seating options including 35 luxury suites, club-level amenities, and field-level boxes, alongside concessions emphasizing local Houston cuisine.[74] It shares the downtown Stadium District with venues like the Toyota Center and Discovery Green, enhancing accessibility via public transit and proximity to urban amenities.[74] For Dynamo FC matches, it hosts an average annual attendance exceeding 18,000, with 18,288 recorded in the 2022 season, contributing to the club's home advantage in MLS play.[78] Beyond Dynamo FC, the multi-purpose facility accommodates the Houston Dash of the NWSL, Texas Southern University football games, and diverse events including over 50 international soccer matches, CONCACAF Gold Cup fixtures, U.S. Women's National Team appearances, USA Rugby contests, and concerts.[74] [7] Approximately 40 soccer matches occur annually, underscoring its role as one of North America's busiest soccer venues.[7] Community outreach, such as the Dynamo Charities Cup and youth programs like Futbolito in the City reaching nearly 1,000 children in 2022, further integrates the stadium into local engagement efforts.[74]Houston Sports Park and training facilities
Houston Sports Park, located approximately 10 miles south of downtown Houston off State Highway 288, functions as the primary training complex for Houston Dynamo FC's first team and youth academy.[79] The facility opened in 2011 following a $12-13 million development funded jointly by the City of Houston, Houston Parks Board, and the Dynamo organization, with initial sod laid in January of that year to establish dedicated professional training grounds.[80] [81] The complex spans roughly 6 acres for its core training area and includes seven fields: six natural grass surfaces, including the Memorial Hermann Champions Field designated as the first team's official training pitch, and one artificial FieldTurf surface.[80] [82] Supporting infrastructure encompasses locker rooms, a training room, weight room, film analysis room, hydrotherapy pool, and a dining facility tailored for player recovery and preparation.[80] These amenities enable year-round operations, accommodating daily sessions, fitness regimens, and tactical drills while also hosting academy matches and development programs.[83] Beyond team use, the park's fields support community tournaments, youth leagues, and public events, logging over 5,000 hours of annual utilization as of recent records, though Dynamo's professional activities take priority for maintenance and access.[84] Renovations completed in 2011 added lighting to all fields and ancillary features like a medical sports building, enhancing its dual role in elite training and amateur recreation.[85] The setup has been described as state-of-the-art in team media, supporting performance optimization amid Houston's humid climate through shaded seating, irrigation systems, and durable Bermuda grass varieties.[86]Ownership, management, and personnel
Ownership structure and changes
Houston Dynamo Football Club, the entity controlling Houston Dynamo FC of Major League Soccer (MLS), the Houston Dash of the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), and operational rights to Shell Energy Stadium, is majority-owned by Ted Segal, who serves as chairman.[87] Segal acquired a controlling interest on June 22, 2021, in a transaction valued at approximately $400 million, which included minority stakes retained by prior investors James Harden, Gabriel Brener, Oscar De La Hoya, and Ben Guill.[88][89] Prior to Segal's involvement, the club was under the majority control of an investment group led by Gabriel Brener following the acquisition of Anschutz Entertainment Group's (AEG) remaining stake on December 15, 2015.[90] Brener, a Mexican businessman, had entered as a minority owner in February 2008 alongside Oscar De La Hoya, purchasing 50% of AEG's controlling interest in the Dynamo and BBVA Compass Stadium (now Shell Energy Stadium).[91] AEG had held full ownership since the Dynamo's inception as an MLS expansion team in 2006.[92] Significant changes under Segal's tenure include the buyout of Brener, De La Hoya, and Guill's minority stakes on August 25, 2022, consolidating his position while retaining Harden as a minority partner who joined on July 18, 2019.[93][94] On July 16, 2024, former U.S. men's national team goalkeeper Tim Howard was added as a minority owner, joining a group operating amid a reported franchise valuation exceeding $700 million.[95] These shifts reflect a pattern of private equity and celebrity investments common in MLS, prioritizing operational stability and facility control over public listings.[96]General managers and executive leadership
Houston Dynamo FC lacked a dedicated general manager for soccer operations in its early years, with club president Chris Canetti overseeing both business and sporting decisions from the team's inception in 2006 until his resignation on October 26, 2018.[97] Canetti's tenure included two MLS Cup victories in 2006 and 2007, as well as the relocation to BBVA Compass Stadium (now Shell Energy Stadium) in 2012.[97] Following majority owner Ted Segal's acquisition in May 2021 and subsequent restructuring, the club appointed Pat Onstad as general manager on November 1, 2021.[98] Onstad, a former Dynamo goalkeeper who contributed to the 2006 and 2007 MLS Cup triumphs and later served as technical director for Columbus Crew from 2019 to 2021, focused on roster rebuilding and youth integration, leading to three consecutive U.S. Open Cup titles from 2021 to 2023.[99] In January 2025, Onstad received a multi-year contract extension and was promoted to president of soccer, expanding his oversight to include broader soccer operations strategy.[100] Current executive leadership emphasizes separation between soccer and business functions:- Pat Onstad: President of soccer, responsible for player acquisition, coaching staff, and performance operations.[101]
- Jessica O'Neill: President of business operations, managing commercial, marketing, and stadium-related activities.[101]
- Nicolò Zini: Chief revenue officer, appointed October 13, 2025, to drive sponsorships, ticketing, and partnerships following Jeff Stewart's departure in August 2025.[102][103]
- Vanessa Scott: Chief operating officer and chief financial officer, handling administrative and fiscal responsibilities.[101]
Head coaching history
Houston Dynamo FC was founded in 2005 as an expansion team for the 2006 Major League Soccer season, with Dominic Kinnear appointed as its inaugural head coach on December 16, 2005.[104][105] Kinnear guided the team through its first nine seasons, compiling a regular-season record of 118-69-59 and leading Houston to MLS Cup victories in 2006 and 2007, as well as a U.S. Open Cup title in 2012.[106] His tenure ended on October 25, 2014, following a postseason absence.[107] Owen Coyle succeeded Kinnear, signing on December 9, 2014, but departed by mutual consent on May 25, 2016, after a 14-21-11 record across 46 regular-season matches, with the team missing playoffs in both years.[108][109] Wilmer Cabrera took over on October 28, 2016, as the fourth head coach, achieving a 40-41-24 regular-season record over 105 games; highlights included a 2018 U.S. Open Cup win but culminated in three straight non-playoff finishes, leading to his dismissal on August 13, 2019.[110][54] Assistant Davy Arnaud served as interim for the final 10 regular-season games that year, posting a 2-5-3 mark.[111] Tab Ramos was hired on October 25, 2019, and coached through December 31, 2021, with a 21-27-21 regular-season record; the team reached playoffs in 2020 and 2021 but exited early each time.[111] Paulo Nagamura, the club's youngest head coach at appointment on January 3, 2022, was fired on September 5, 2022, after an 8-16-5 start that placed Houston last in the Western Conference.[112] Kenny Bundy managed as interim from September 6 to November 7, 2022, overseeing a 1-1-1 finish.[111] Ben Olsen was appointed the sixth full-time head coach on November 8, 2022, bringing prior MLS experience from D.C. United where he won a Supporters' Shield in 2012.[112] As of October 2025, Olsen remains in charge, with a cumulative regular-season record of approximately 39-28-26 through early 2025, including playoff appearances in 2023 and U.S. Open Cup final runs, reflecting improved defensive structure and postseason contention.[106]| Coach | Tenure | Regular-Season Record (W-D-L) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dominic Kinnear | Dec 16, 2005 – Oct 25, 2014 | 118-69-59 | MLS Cups (2006, 2007); longest tenure in club history.[104][106] |
| Owen Coyle | Dec 9, 2014 – May 25, 2016 | 14-21-11 | No playoffs; mutual departure.[109] |
| Wilmer Cabrera | Oct 28, 2016 – Aug 13, 2019 | 40-41-24 | U.S. Open Cup (2018); three non-playoff seasons.[54] |
| Tab Ramos | Oct 25, 2019 – Dec 31, 2021 | 21-27-21 | Playoff berths (2020, 2021).[111] |
| Paulo Nagamura | Jan 3, 2022 – Sep 5, 2022 | 8-16-5 | Dismissed midseason.[111] |
| Ben Olsen | Nov 8, 2022 – present | ~39-28-26 (through 2025) | Ongoing; playoffs and cup finals.[112][106] |
Squad and player development
Current roster composition
As of October 21, 2025, Houston Dynamo FC holds contracts for 19 senior players entering preparations for the 2026 Major League Soccer season, following the exercise of options on five players and the declination of ten others after the 2025 campaign.[113] The composition emphasizes defensive stability and midfield depth, with a blend of veteran international signings, retained core members, and three homegrown players integrated into the senior squad.[113] [114] Goalkeepers consist of three experienced options: Jonathan Bond as the primary starter, backup Jimmy Maurer, and young prospect Blake Gillingham, whose option was exercised to maintain depth.[113] The defensive unit includes four center backs and full backs: Brazilian Antônio Carlos, Dane Erik Sviatchenko, American Griffin Dorsey (option exercised), and Felipe Andrade, providing a solid backline anchored by international pedigree without recent academy promotions in this group.[113] Midfield features the largest contingent with seven players, balancing creativity and work rate: Brazilian Artur (option exercised), American Duane Holmes, Czech Ondřej Lingr, Malian Diadié Samassékou, and homegrown Americans Jack McGlynn, Brooklyn Raines (option exercised), and Sebastián Rodríguez, highlighting the club's investment in youth development alongside tactical versatility.[113] [114] Forwards total five, focused on scoring output: Argentine Ezequiel Ponce as the focal point striker, Colombian Nelson Quiñones (option exercised), American Toyosi Olusanya, Dutch-Ghanaian Lawrence Ennali, and Honduran Exon Arzú, forming a unit reliant on pace and finishing rather than depth.[113]| Position | Count | Notable Attributes |
|---|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | 3 | Senior depth with one prospect retained[113] |
| Defenders | 4 | International experience in central defense[113] |
| Midfielders | 7 | Homegrown integration (3 players) and international variety[113] [114] |
| Forwards | 5 | Emphasis on designated players and wing threats[113] |
Youth academy and affiliate pathways
The Houston Dynamo FC Academy operates as the club's primary youth development system, competing in the MLS Next league for elite underage teams across age groups including U-14, U-15, U-16, and U-18.[115] Established to cultivate players toward professional and international standards, the academy emphasizes technical proficiency, tactical awareness, and holistic development, with a focus on local talent from the Greater Houston area.[116] In February 2023, the club reorganized its player pathway to prioritize homegrown professionals, integrating academy graduates more seamlessly into senior squads through enhanced scouting, training integration, and performance metrics.[117] The academy has produced several prospects who have advanced to professional contracts, including forward Jahmani "JJ" Bell, signed to an MLS Next Pro deal with Houston Dynamo 2 in October 2025 after progressing through the U-19 side.[118] Other notable alumni include forward Roberto "Beto" Avila, who transitioned from academy ranks to the first team via the affiliate system in May 2022, and various players who have earned U.S. Youth National Team call-ups, with eleven academy participants in talent identification events as of 2025.[119][120] The program's coaching staff for the 2025-26 season, announced on September 10, 2025, includes experienced MLS Next personnel tasked with bridging youth and senior levels.[121] Affiliate pathways extend from the academy to Houston Dynamo 2, the club's MLS Next Pro reserve team launched in 2022 as a dedicated second-division bridge to the first team, hosting academy graduates under professional contracts.[122] Previously, the Dynamo maintained an affiliate relationship with Rio Grande Valley FC in the USL Championship, restructured in December 2020 to allow RGV greater operational autonomy while facilitating player loans and development loans from Houston.[123] At the youth level, partnerships with local affiliates such as Houston Dynamo Unidos and Total Football Club, formalized in August 2020, provide feeder programs for U-13 and younger talents, funneling identified prospects into the MLS Next academy structure.[124] This multi-tiered system aims to maximize local retention, with academy director roles emphasizing data-driven progression to mitigate talent leakage common in U.S. soccer development.[121]Notable former players and transfers
Houston Dynamo FC's notable former players include several who contributed to the club's two MLS Cup victories in 2006 and 2007, as well as long-term record holders. Brian Ching, the club's all-time leading scorer with 55 goals across 162 appearances from 2006 to 2011, was instrumental in those championships, earning MLS Cup MVP honors in 2006 for his two goals in the final against the New England Revolution.[125] Brad Davis holds the record for most appearances with 288 games and 54 assists from 2002 to 2015, providing consistent service from midfield during the title-winning eras and beyond.[126] Ricardo Clark amassed 235 appearances and 26 goals between 2002–2004 and 2010–2018, anchoring the midfield in both MLS Cups and later captaining the team.[126] Dwayne De Rosario, who played for the Dynamo from 2006 to 2009, scored 22 goals in 86 appearances and was named MLS MVP in 2007 after leading the league with 26 goals and 18 assists that season.[127] DaMarcus Beasley, a U.S. national team stalwart, featured in 89 matches from 2011 to 2014 and 2019, contributing 12 goals and helping secure the 2011 U.S. Open Cup.[128] Significant transfers include the club's record sale of defender Micael to SE Palmeiras on February 22, 2025, for an undisclosed fee reported as the largest outgoing transfer in Dynamo history after his standout performances since joining in 2023.[129] Midfielder Nicolás Lodeiro departed on a free transfer to Club Nacional de Fútbol on July 15, 2025, following a tenure from 2024 that included key playmaking contributions.[130] Earlier, forward Alberth Elis transferred to Bordeaux in 2019 after scoring 21 goals in 65 appearances, marking a notable outgoing move for the Honduran international.[131] Incoming highlights feature the 2022 signing of Héctor Herrera from Porto on a free transfer, who later moved to the Houston Dynamo 2 affiliate before departing, bringing European pedigree to the midfield.[132]Achievements and records
Domestic league and cup honors
Houston Dynamo FC has won the MLS Cup championship twice, in 2006 and 2007.[133] In the 2006 final on November 12, the Dynamo defeated the New England Revolution 4–3 in extra time at Robertson Stadium in Houston.[134] The following year, on November 18, 2007, Houston again beat New England, this time 2–1, at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C., securing back-to-back titles.[133]
The club reached the MLS Cup final twice more, in 2011 and 2012, but lost both to the LA Galaxy—1–0 in 2011 and 3–1 in 2012.[133] Houston has not won the Supporters' Shield, awarded for the best regular-season record.[135] In the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, the Dynamo claimed titles in 2018, defeating the Philadelphia Union 3–0 on September 26, and in 2023, overcoming Inter Miami CF 2–1 on September 27.[136][137] These victories mark Houston's two U.S. Open Cup championships to date.[138]
International participation and results
Houston Dynamo FC has competed in the CONCACAF Champions Cup (formerly known as the CONCACAF Champions League), North America's premier club football tournament organized by CONCACAF, on eight occasions as of 2024, accumulating a record of 14 wins, 10 draws, and 12 losses across 36 matches, with 45 goals scored and 43 conceded.[139] Qualification has stemmed from MLS Cup victories in 2006 and 2007, as well as U.S. Open Cup triumphs in 2018 and 2023, alongside other domestic performances granting berths in the expanded format. The club has advanced beyond the group stage or preliminary rounds in several editions but has yet to reach the final. The Dynamo's debut in continental competition occurred in the 2007 CONCACAF Champions' Cup, earned via their inaugural MLS Cup title. They progressed through the quarterfinals with a 2-0 second-leg victory over Puntarenas FC of Costa Rica after a first-leg draw, then secured a 2-0 home win in the semifinal first leg against Pachuca CF of Mexico on March 15, 2007. However, they were eliminated in the second leg, losing 2-5 after extra time on April 3, 2007, for a 4-5 aggregate defeat.[140][141][142] Subsequent appearances yielded mixed outcomes. In the 2012–13 CONCACAF Champions League, Houston reached the quarterfinals but fell to Santos Laguna of Mexico, losing 1-0 away and 0-3 at home. The 2013–14 edition saw an early group-stage exit, where they recorded one win and one loss against Árabe Unido of Panama, alongside results versus W Connection of Trinidad and Tobago. By contrast, the 2018–19 tournament—qualified through the 2018 U.S. Open Cup—ended in the quarterfinals with aggregate losses to Tigres UANL of Mexico.[143] In the 2024 CONCACAF Champions Cup, secured via the 2023 U.S. Open Cup, Houston advanced from the Round of 16 against MLS rival St. Louis City SC, losing 1-2 in the first leg on February 20 before a 1-0 home win on February 27, prevailing 2-2 on aggregate via away goals rule. Their run concluded in the quarterfinals versus Columbus Crew, with a 0-1 home defeat in the first leg followed by a 1-1 draw away on March 12, exiting 1-2 on aggregate.[144][145][146] Beyond the Champions Cup, Houston has featured in invitational cross-border events like the North American SuperLiga, a now-defunct tournament pitting MLS teams against Mexican Liga MX clubs. In the 2007 edition, they reached the semifinals, defeating C.D. Guadalajara before elimination by Pachuca CF. The club has also competed in the Leagues Cup since its inception in 2023, a MLS-Liga MX showdown, though results there remain secondary to CONCACAF's official continental championship.[147]Statistical records and milestones
Houston Dynamo FC has competed in 607 Major League Soccer regular-season matches from 2006 through 2025, accumulating 223 wins, 177 draws, and 207 losses, while scoring 835 goals and conceding 803 for a goal difference of +32.[148] The club's most successful regular seasons occurred in 2007 (third place, 15 wins, 43 goals for, 23 against) and 2008 (second place, 13 wins, 45 goals for, 32 against), while its poorest performances came in 2021 (25th place, 6 wins, 36 goals for, 54 against) and 2022 (25th place, 10 wins, 43 goals for, 56 against).[148] Brian Ching holds the club record for most career goals with 69 in 223 appearances, followed by Mauro Manotas with 64 goals in 167 matches and Will Bruin with a similar tally in 191 outings.[149] [150] Ching also shares the single-game scoring record with four goals in a 5–2 victory over the Colorado Rapids on October 21, 2006.[149] The Dynamo established an MLS benchmark for early-season scoring by netting 11 goals across their first three matches in 2016.[43] In terms of streaks, the team maintained a 36-game unbeaten run at home spanning all competitions from 2011 to 2013 (30 wins, 6 draws), including 29 regular-season matches (21 wins, 8 draws) and victories over 19 different opponents.[151] This sequence encompassed 69 goals scored and 24 conceded overall, with the streak ending in a 0–2 loss to Sporting Kansas City on May 11, 2013.[152] Notable match records include the largest margin of victory, a 5–0 win over the Portland Timbers on August 21, 2023, and the heaviest defeat, a 0–6 loss to the Philadelphia Union on July 31, 2022.[153] The highest single-game attendance was 70,550 for an August 9, 2006, regular-season match against the Los Angeles Galaxy at Reliant Stadium.[153]Club culture and rivalries
Supporters groups and fan engagement
Hustle Town Supporters, established in 2020 as a coalition of independent fan groups, coordinates activities for Houston Dynamo FC's dedicated supporters, including El Batallón, Texian Army, The Surge, and Bandera Negra.[154] These groups occupy the Hustle Town Safe Standing section behind the south goal at Shell Energy Stadium, a 1,200-capacity area designed for standing and vocal support.[155] Supporters commonly chant songs such as "Queremos La Copa," "Wonderwall," "We Are Orange," and "Vamos Houston," while displaying flags, tifos, and the club's orange-and-black colors to create an intense matchday atmosphere.[156][155] Individual groups contribute distinct elements to the culture: Bandera Negra, active since 2009, focuses on tailgating in Lot C and requires $35 annual membership; The Surge, formed in 2020, organizes pregame meetups at Pitch 25 with $25 membership and emphasizes community building; El Batallón embodies a traditional Barra Brava style with coordinated displays; and the Texian Army, the club's oldest independent group, energizes the stadium through organized cheering.[155][157] Groups also engage in charity events, watch parties, and marches to the venue, fostering a sense of unity among members who adhere to an official code of conduct promoting support irrespective of race, national origin, religion, or other personal characteristics.[155][158] The club bolsters fan engagement through targeted initiatives, including the Custom Rewards program, which enables supporters to redeem points for personalized game-day experiences or merchandise selections.[159] A Fan Appreciation Night on September 26, 2025, featured giveaways, surprises, and heightened energy to recognize supporter loyalty.[160] Partnerships like the extended Verizon collaboration, active since 2023, enhance in-stadium connectivity and experiences via 5G technology.[161] Looking ahead, Dynamo FC plans a 2026 FIFA World Cup kickoff event at Shell Energy Stadium to broaden its audience and experiment with novel engagement tactics.[162]Traditions, mascot, and matchday atmosphere
The mascot of Houston Dynamo FC is Dynamo Diesel, a fox character whose design was selected through a 2007 contest involving students from The Art Institute of Houston and officially announced on April 3 of that year.[163] Diesel engages fans through appearances at matches, community events, and promotions, including collaborations with other Houston sports mascots during special nights like Kids Night at Shell Energy Stadium.[164] Club traditions center on the vibrant culture of its supporters' groups, particularly El Batallón, the largest independent group founded in 2006, which upholds practices such as marching en masse to Shell Energy Stadium before home matches while clad in the team's orange and black colors.[155] These groups occupy the Zona Naranja section in the stadium's north end, fostering a South American-inspired atmosphere through continuous drumming sessions called tamboraeda—a rhythmic ensemble drawing from Latin American soccer traditions—and coordinated chants that emphasize team pride.[165] A hallmark chant, "We Are Orange," emerged organically in the mid-2000s among supporters in Zona Naranja and has since become a unifying anthem sung across groups like El Batallón and the Nomads, symbolizing the club's energetic identity.[166] Other common chants adapt popular tunes, such as "Dale Dynamo" to the melody of "Cadillacs" by León or "Dale, dale, dale" derived from "Karma Chameleon," reinforcing communal participation during games.[167] Matchday atmosphere at Shell Energy Stadium, which opened in 2017 with a capacity of 22,000, is defined by high-energy tailgating in surrounding lots and an immersive in-stadium experience amplified by supporters' relentless vocal support, often reaching peak intensity during player entrances via the rally tunnel.[168] Fans arriving early can access pre-match warm-ups, on-pitch challenges, and group-led rituals like banner displays, contributing to average attendances exceeding 18,000 per match in recent seasons and creating a cacophonous environment that rivals European or Latin American stadia in fervor.[169] This dynamic is particularly evident in high-stakes games, where the blend of drums, flares (when permitted), and synchronized singing from thousands in Zona Naranja generates a wall of sound that influences home advantage, as noted in club analyses of crowd impact on performance.[170]Key rivalries and derbies
The Texas Derby represents Houston Dynamo FC's most prominent rivalry, contested annually with FC Dallas since 2006 to crown the state's top professional soccer club based on regular-season results.[171] The competition emphasizes Texas regional pride, with matches often featuring heightened intensity due to geographic proximity and shared fanbases across the state's major metros.[172] All-time, FC Dallas holds a slight edge in the series at 16 wins to Houston's 14, with 20 draws across 50 meetings as of May 2025, including playoff contests.[173] Houston has claimed the derby title outright nine times (2006, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2016, 2017, 2021, and 2025), reflecting periods of dominance such as a 5-0 victory in 2016 that stands as the competition's largest margin.[174] Notable early clashes include the inaugural 4-3 Houston win on May 6, 2006, which drew over 21,000 fans to Robertson Stadium.[175] A secondary but significant rivalry exists with Sporting Kansas City, fueled by repeated high-stakes playoff confrontations rather than geography.[176] The clubs have met six times in the MLS Cup Playoffs, where Houston maintains a 3-2-1 advantage, including a decisive 2017 Western Conference Semifinals series win that advanced the Dynamo to the conference finals.[177] These encounters, spanning series in 2007, 2012, and 2017, have produced tight aggregates and extra-time drama, contributing to mutual respect and competitive tension in regular-season fixtures as well.[178] Overall head-to-head records show balance, with 63 meetings yielding 22 Houston wins, 21 for Sporting KC, and 20 draws since 2006.[179] Emerging tensions with Austin FC, Texas's newest MLS entrant since 2021, have added intra-state layers, though historical depth remains limited compared to FC Dallas.[180] Matches against Los Angeles Galaxy carry occasional weight from early MLS history and national broadcasts but lack the consistent fervor of the core derbies.[181]Media and broadcasting
Television, streaming, and national coverage
Houston Dynamo FC's regular season matches, along with playoffs and Leagues Cup games, are exclusively streamed via MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app, providing access to all Major League Soccer content without regional blackouts as part of the league's 10-year media rights agreement initiated in 2023.[182] This service includes multilingual commentary in English, Spanish, and French, and covers Dynamo-specific fixtures such as their April 5, 2025, home game against LAFC.[183][184] Select Dynamo games receive national linear television exposure through MLS broadcast partners, with FOX and FS1 airing approximately one league match per week during the regular season, while ESPN and Univision handle additional slots including playoffs.[184][185] For the 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs, all rounds stream on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV and DirecTV, with select matches simulcast on traditional networks for wider reach.[186] Prior to the Apple exclusivity, local telecasts in the Houston market were primarily on AT&T SportsNet Southwest, available via providers like DirecTV channel 674 and Xfinity channels 39/639.[187]Radio broadcasts and local media partnerships
Houston Dynamo FC has maintained radio broadcast partnerships for both English and Spanish-language coverage of its matches, primarily through local stations in the Houston area. Spanish broadcasts, handled by play-by-play announcer Daniel Mejia in his 16th season with the club as of 2024 and color analyst Cesar Procel, air on TUDN Radio Houston 93.3 FM (KLAT), covering all regular season games and select cup matches; this arrangement, originating from a pre-2016 deal with Univision Radio Houston, marked its eighth year in 2023 and continued into 2024 with simulcasts available on the UFORIA app.[188][189] English-language radio coverage has evolved from traditional over-the-air broadcasts to digital streams. In 2023, GOW Media broadcast most regular season matches on KFNC ESPN 97.5 FM, featuring veteran play-by-play voice Glenn Davis and analyst Bobby Boswell, with simulcasts on ESPN975.com and the club's website.[189] By 2024, English audio shifted to a virtual stream accessible via the radio icon on MLS Season Pass through Apple TV for select home games, with Davis returning for his 19th season; he continued in this role for the 2025 season, his 20th with the Dynamo.[188][190] These radio partnerships form part of broader local media collaborations aimed at reaching Houston's diverse fanbase, including digital extensions like podcasts on platforms such as Spotify for game recaps and full broadcasts.[191] The club's ties with stations like TUDN and ESPN emphasize accessibility, with Spanish coverage consistently prioritized for its comprehensive scope to serve the region's large Hispanic population.[189]Performance metrics and analysis
Seasonal results and playoff history
Houston Dynamo FC entered Major League Soccer in 2006 and quickly established itself as a playoff contender, capturing the MLS Cup in its inaugural season by defeating the New England Revolution 4–1 in a penalty shootout following a 1–1 draw, and repeating the feat in 2007 with a 2–1 victory over the same opponent.[9][192] The club reached the MLS Cup again in 2011 and 2012 but lost both finals to the Los Angeles Galaxy.[192] After a dominant start with four consecutive Western Conference Championship appearances from 2006 to 2009, the Dynamo experienced a prolonged period of mediocrity, missing the playoffs entirely from 2014 to 2016 and again from 2018 to 2022 amid coaching changes and roster turnover.[192] Resurging under head coach Ben Olsen, Houston qualified for the postseason in 2023, advancing to the Western Conference Finals before elimination by the Seattle Sounders FC, and repeated as a playoff team in 2024, though exiting in the First Round against the Los Angeles FC.[59][192] Overall, the club has made 10 playoff appearances in 19 full seasons through 2024, with a historical postseason record emphasizing early success but limited deep runs in recent years.[192][193] The table below details Houston Dynamo's regular-season performance in MLS from 2006 to 2024, including playoff outcomes where applicable. Positions reflect final standings (primarily Western Conference in early years, transitioning to overall/supporters' shield context later). Data sourced from verified statistical archives.[148]| Season | Position | Pld | W | D | L | GF | GA | Pts | Playoff Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | 5th (West) | 32 | 11 | 13 | 8 | 44 | 40 | 46 | Won MLS Cup |
| 2007 | 3rd (West) | 30 | 15 | 7 | 8 | 43 | 23 | 52 | Won MLS Cup |
| 2008 | 2nd (West) | 30 | 13 | 12 | 5 | 45 | 32 | 51 | Lost Western Conf. Semifinals |
| 2009 | 3rd (West) | 30 | 13 | 9 | 8 | 39 | 29 | 48 | Lost Western Conf. Finals |
| 2010 | 12th | 30 | 9 | 6 | 15 | 40 | 49 | 33 | Did not qualify |
| 2011 | 7th | 34 | 12 | 13 | 9 | 45 | 41 | 49 | Lost MLS Cup |
| 2012 | 9th | 34 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 48 | 41 | 53 | Lost MLS Cup |
| 2013 | 9th | 34 | 14 | 9 | 11 | 41 | 41 | 51 | Lost Western Conf. Finals |
| 2014 | 14th | 34 | 11 | 6 | 17 | 39 | 58 | 39 | Did not qualify |
| 2015 | 15th | 34 | 11 | 9 | 14 | 42 | 49 | 42 | Did not qualify |
| 2016 | 19th | 34 | 7 | 13 | 14 | 39 | 45 | 34 | Did not qualify |
| 2017 | 10th | 34 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 57 | 45 | 50 | Lost Western Conf. Finals |
| 2018 | 17th | 34 | 10 | 8 | 16 | 58 | 58 | 38 | Did not qualify |
| 2019 | 19th | 34 | 12 | 4 | 18 | 49 | 59 | 40 | Did not qualify |
| 2020 | 25th | 23 | 4 | 9 | 10 | 30 | 40 | 21 | Did not qualify |
| 2021 | 25th | 34 | 6 | 12 | 16 | 36 | 54 | 30 | Did not qualify |
| 2022 | 25th | 34 | 10 | 6 | 18 | 43 | 56 | 36 | Did not qualify |
| 2023 | 10th | 34 | 14 | 9 | 11 | 51 | 38 | 51 | Lost Western Conf. Finals |
| 2024 | 8th | 34 | 15 | 9 | 10 | 47 | 39 | 54 | Lost First Round |