Jorge de la Cruz
The Chilean-American icon who defined the Sounders' golden era and became a franchise legend.
Jorge de la Cruz stands as one of the most iconic figures in the history of American soccer, serving as a bridge between the original NASL Sounders and the modern MLS franchise. A naturalized American citizen born in Chile, he was a founding member of the Seattle Sounders in 1974 and played a pivotal role in establishing the club's identity during its golden era. His tenure defined an entire generation of fans, earning him the status of a revered legend long before his jersey number was officially retired.
- Role
- Midfielder / Forward
- Affiliation
- Seattle Sounders (NASL & MLS)
- First Appearance
- 1974
- Status
- Retired Legend
- Jersey Number
- 8
- Key Achievement
- NPSL Champion
- Legacy
- Sounders Hall of Fame Inductee
Lore & Background
Beyond his playing days, de la Cruz's connection to Seattle runs deep. He returned to the club decades later when the modern MLS franchise began its journey, serving as an ambassador and a living link to the team's storied past.
In Their Own Story
The Kingdome hummed with an electric anticipation, the air thick with the sound of chanting fans and the smell of popcorn. Jorge de la Cruz stood at the center circle, the number 8 on his chest gleaming under the floodlights. He didn't need to shout; his presence commanded the midfield. As he received a pass, the crowd roared in unison, a testament to a decade of loyalty. With a delicate touch that seemed to defy gravity, he spun past a defender and threaded a perfect through-ball, igniting another moment of magic for the Sounders.
Reader's Guide
Jorge de la Cruz's career with the Seattle Sounders began in 1974 as a founding member of the NASL franchise. He quickly established himself as a creative force, known for his elegant playmaking and goal-scoring ability that helped the team dominate the indoor circuit. During the late 1970s, de la Cruz was instrumental in leading the Sounders to multiple National Professional Soccer League (NPSL) championships. His leadership on the field and charisma off it helped build a fan culture that would eventually sustain the club through its hiatus and rebirth in MLS. In 2014, the modern Seattle Sounders FC honored his legacy by retiring jersey number 8, making him one of the few players from the original era to receive such an accolade. His induction into the Sounders Hall of Fame solidifies his status as a cornerstone of the franchise's history. De la Cruz remains a beloved figure in Seattle sports, representing the enduring spirit of the club and serving as a mentor to new generations of players who wear the green and gold.
Did You Know?
- Jorge de la Cruz was one of the original founding members of the Seattle Sounders when they joined the NASL in 1974.
- He helped lead the team to multiple indoor soccer championships during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
- His jersey number 8 was officially retired by the Seattle Sounders FC in 2014, honoring his immense contribution to the club's history.
- De la Cruz is a naturalized American citizen who brought international flair to American soccer during its formative years.