Sounders FC Selects Scout7 Information Systems

Seattle becomes first MLS club to join world-wide leader



RENTON, WASH. – The Seattle Sounders FC has become the first MLS club to select England-based Scout7 as provider of its information management system, it was announced today.

Scout7 is the world-wide leader and a pioneer in the delivery of information management systems in professional soccer. Its list of European clients has grown to nearly 100 since 2001.


Scout7 systems are installed at more than 75 percent of England’s Premier League clubs and over 50 percent of Championship clubs. The growing list of international clients reaches 15 different countries, including such clubs as RSC Anderlecht, Ajax, Celtic FC, Feyenoord, Le Mans, Olympique Lyonnais, PSV Eindhoven, Rangers FC, FC Schalke 04, Sevilla FC and Villarreal CF.


Sounders FC will use Scout7 systems to assist in monitoring player prospects outside of the United States. Senior management staff can track the progress of both established and emerging talent across the world through the largest player database in world soccer, in addition to managing their own report information and personal notes on specific targets centrally and securely online.


Seattle general manager Adrian Hanauer says Scout7’s depth of information, particularly in key South American markets, was key to the club’s decision to invest in the technology.


“As well as providing a greater depth of league history and personal information on established pros in Europe,” said Hanauer, “the system also enables us to monitor both domestic and international football in South and Central America, which have been very successful recruitment markets for MLS franchises over the past decade.”


“In the major nations, including Brazil and Argentina, we can also access comprehensive and accurate information on lower league football below Serie A and Primera A, which again is of great value to us,” Hanauer said. “We are looking forward to working closely with Scout7 over the next six months, as we prepare to make an impact in our first season in MLS.”


Scout7 managing director Lee Jamison traveled to Seattle to present the system to Sounders FC representatives. Jamison expressed his delight at Seattle becoming the first North American
ProScout7 client.


“I am delighted that Seattle Sounders have recognized the benefits we can provide them in the recruitment process as they prepare for their first MLS season,” Jamison said. “Both I and our international database team will be on hand to provide extensive support to their senior staff as they formulate their playing roster for 2009.”


Sounders FC has signed four players for its inaugural season. Ten more will be added Nov. 26 during the MLS Expansion Draft.