Who Are San Jose Earthquakes? History, Stats & More
The San Jose Earthquakes are one of the founding teams in American soccer, with a rich history dating back to the formation of Major League Soccer in 1996. Hailing from the soccer hotbed of San Jose, California, the Earthquakes have established themselves as a fierce competitor in the Western Conference.
Their intense rivalry with the LA Galaxy, known as the California Clásico, is one of the most highly anticipated matchups in the league each season. The team faced a brief period of uncertainty in 2005 when they were relocated, but they returned with a vengeance in 2008 and have been a dominant force ever since.
The Earthquakes currently call PayPal Park, formerly known as Avaya Stadium, their home and continue to thrill fans with their electrifying play.
History of San Jose Earthquakes: Founded in 2005
Founded in 1995, the team debuted in the MLS as the San Jose Clash. In addition, they were the Supporters’ Shield winners in 2005 and 2012. The team was relocated in 2005 due to stadium issues in San Jose, and they moved to Houston to become the Houston Dynamo.
However, the San Jose Earthquakes returned to the MLS in 2008 after a two-year hiatus. They have played their home games at PayPal Park since 2015, which was formerly known as Avaya Stadium.
The team is well-known for its passionate and dedicated fan base, who have supported them throughout its history. They are a beloved team in the MLS and continue to play a significant role in the history of soccer in the United States.
Who was the founder of San Jose Earthquakes?
Behind every great soccer team is a great owner, and the San Jose Earthquakes have one of the best. Edward J. DeBartolo Jr. may have made his name as the owner of the San Francisco 49ers in the NFL, but he’s also a force to be reckoned with in the soccer world. During his 23-year tenure with the 49ers, DeBartolo led the team to a record five Super Bowl victories, setting a new standard for sports ownership.
But he didn’t stop there. DeBartolo’s family business, the Edward J. DeBartolo Corporation, was one of the biggest players in US real estate, with over two billion square feet of retail space to their name. He’s also a philanthropist and sports management guru, making him the perfect owner for a team like the Earthquakes. With DeBartolo at the helm, the San Jose squad is sure to keep shaking things up on the soccer field.
Current President of San Jose Earthquakes; Who is Jared Shawlee?
Jared Shawlee, the new president of San Jose Earthquakes, has strong roots in the area. After earning his degree from Cal Poly in 2005, he pursued a career in sports eventually becoming an account executive.
When the opportunity arose to switch sports and join the newly launched San Jose Earthquakes in 2007, Shawlee grabbed the chance with both hands. He quickly became one of the organization’s earliest employees, helping to launch the team’s first season in 2008. `season. Shawlee is also excited about the MLS NEXT Pro in 2022. The San Jose Earthquakes II are among the 21 original squads.
Stadium of San Jose Earthquakes: PayPal Park
Get ready to experience football like never before at PayPal Park, the home of the San Jose Earthquakes. This state-of-the-art stadium is located in San Jose, California, and can seat approximately 18,000 fans. The park offers luxury suites, club seats, and a rooftop terrace where spectators can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding area.
The stadium has undergone several renovations over the years, most notably in 2014 when the facility received a major overhaul that included new additions like a scoreboard and sound system, as well as upgraded concession areas and restrooms. The playing surface is made of natural grass, which adds to the authenticity of the football experience. The stadium also features a state-of-the-art lighting system that allows for evening games.
PayPal Park is not just a football stadium. It has also played host to several other events, including international soccer matches, concerts, and festivals. Owned by the city of San Jose and operated by the Earthquakes organization, PayPal Park is more than just a football stadium – it is a hub of entertainment for fans of all ages.
Q: What is the name of San Jose Earthquake’s stadium?
Ans: San Jose Earthquakes play their home games at PayPal Park.
Fans and Culture of San Jose Earthquakes
The San Jose Earthquakes have several supporters group with the San Jose Ultras being one of the primary ones. Other groups which sing their heart out for their beloved club include Soccer Silicon Valley, Club Quake, The Faultline, The Casbah, and Epicentro74.
Lars Frederiksen, a punk rocker, is a big fan of the Earthquakes and supports the team. He and his band, The Old Firm Casuals, created a song along with a new anthem that the San Jose earthquakes hold very close to their heart “Never Say Die”. Frederiksen stated that the San Jose Earthquakes are the most “punk rock” team in the MLS.
San Jose Earthquakes KEY INDIVIDUALS
Notable players in the history of San Jose Earthquakes
The San Jose Earthquakes have had several notable players throughout their history. One of the most iconic players is Landon Donovan, who played for the Earthquakes from 2001-2004 and helped lead the team to two MLS Cup championships in 2001 and 2003. Donovan is considered one of the greatest American soccer players of all time and was named the MLS MVP in 2003.
Another notable player is Chris Wondolowski, who has spent the majority of his career with the Earthquakes. Wondolowski holds the most goals scored in a career and most goals scored in a season for the Earthquakes. He was also the MLS MVP in 2012 and has gone on to become a five-time MLS All-Star.
Other notable players include Ronald Cerritos, who played for the Earthquakes from 1997-2001 and was named to the MLS Best XI in 1999, as well as Ramiro Corrales, who played for the Earthquakes from 1996-2004 and 2008-2013 and holds the franchise record for most appearances. These players, among others, have helped shape the legacy of the San Jose Earthquakes in Major League Soccer.
Best Manager in the history of San Jose Earthquakes
Frank Yallop is widely regarded as the best manager in the history of the San Jose Earthquakes. He managed the team during two separate stints, first from 2001-2003 and then from 2008-2013. Yallop led the Earthquakes to two MLS Cup championships in 2001 and 2003 and also won the Supporters’ Shield in 2012.
During his time as manager, Yallop also helped develop several key players for the Earthquakes, including Landon Donovan, Dwayne De Rosario, and Chris Wondolowski. He was known for his tactical acumen and ability to get the best out of his players, even during challenging times.
Yallop’s success with the Earthquakes led to him being named MLS Coach of the Year twice, first in 2001 and then again in 2012. He left the Earthquakes in 2013 to become the head coach of the Chicago Fire, but his legacy with the San Jose club remains strong.
Q: Who is the President of San Jose Earthquakes?
Ans. Jared Shawlee currently serves the role of President for San Jose Earthquakes.
San Jose Earthquakes RECORD BREAKERS
All-Time Top Scorers of San Jose Earthquakes
Legendary American soccer player Chris Wondolowski has retired, leaving behind an impressive legacy. The forward scored a record 171 career goals in Major League Soccer, making him the top scorer in league history. Wondolowski was also named the Most Valuable Player in 2012 and was one of the league’s top strikers during his time.
He played for the San Jose Earthquakes, helping them to win the MLS Cup in 2006 and 2007 before returning to the team in 2009.
| Players | Goals Scored |
| Chris Wondolowski | 176 |
| Ronald Cerritos | 64 |
| Landon Donovan | 41 |
| Dwayne de Rosario | 30 |
| Valeri Qazaishwili | 30 |
Q: Who is the all-time highest goal scorer of the San Jose Earthquakes?
Ans: Chris Wondolowski has scored the highest goals in the history of Nashville FC.
All-Time top assists provider of San Jose Earthquakes
Former San Jose Earthquakes midfielder, Shea Salinas, was drafted 15th overall by the club in the 2008 MLS SuperDraft. He holds the career assist record for the club and scored his first goal against the Kansas City Wizards in 2008.
Salinas also played on loan for the Charleston Battery in 2008. He was later drafted by Philadelphia Union and Vancouver Whitecaps FC in the 2009 and 2010 MLS Expansion Drafts, respectively. In 2011, he was traded back to San Jose Earthquakes. Salinas retired from soccer last year.
| Players | Number Of Assists |
| Shea Salinas | 50 |
| Cristian Espinoza | 39 |
| Chris Wondolowski | 37 |
| Ronald Cerritos | 32 |
| Richard Mulrooney | 28 |
Q: Who is the all-time assist provider for San Jose Earthquakes?
Ans. Shea Salinas has provided the most assists for San Jose Earthquakes
Most all-time appearances for San Jose Earthquakes
Chris Wondolowski‘s legacy as one of the most prolific goal scorers in MLS history is well-known. However, what is often overlooked is his brief stint with Sporting Kansas City in 2005, where he made seven appearances for the club. Even though his time with the team was short-lived, Wondolowski’s contributions were not forgotten.
In fact, he remains the highest appearance maker for the club from his brief spell. While his time in Kansas City may have been brief, Wondolowski’s impact on the MLS is undeniable, and his name will forever be remembered as one of the greats.
| Players | Number Of Appearances |
| Chris Wondolowski | 401 |
| Shea Salinas | 351 |
| Ramiro Corrales | 268 |
| Tommy Thompson | 200 |
| Joe Cannon | 179 |
Q: When did San Jose Earthquakes start playing in the MLS?
Ans: San Jose Earthquakes was founded in 1995 and started playing in the MLS in 1996.
MOST EXPENSIVE TRANSFERS IN THE HISTORY OF San Jose Earthquakes
Ecuadorian midfielder Carlos Gruezo‘s career has taken him on a journey across the world, from South America to Europe and back to the United States. Starting his professional career with Independiente del Valle in Ecuador, Gruezo quickly caught the eye of Barcelona SC before making the leap to Europe in 2014.
After impressing during a pre-season trial with VfB Stuttgart, he signed a four-year contract with the German club, where he scored his first Bundesliga goal and made a name for himself as a rising star. After a stint with FC Dallas, Gruezo returned to Germany with FC Augsburg but has now returned to the United States, signing with San Jose Earthquakes in January 2023.
| Name | Club From | Transfer Amount |
| Carlos Gruezo | FC Augsburg | $2.70m |
| Cristian Espinoza | Villarreal | $2.30m |
| Magnus Eriksson | Djurgarden | $1.20m |
| Jeremy Ebobisse | Portland | $1.06m |
| Daniel | Internacional | $600k |
Q: How many MLS Cups have San Jose Earthquakes won?
Ans: San Jose Earthquakes have won MLS Cup two times in their history, winning them in 2001 and 2003.
CONCLUSION: Overview of San Jose Earthquakes legacy
The San Jose Earthquakes have left an indelible mark in Major League Soccer history with their impressive record. The team has secured two MLS Cup titles and two Supporters’ Shields, cementing their legacy as one of the league’s most formidable forces. The Earthquakes have also nurtured promising young talent, with several players progressing to represent the US men’s national team.
Among the notable players are Chris Wondolowski, who holds the record for the most goals scored in MLS history, and Shea Salinas, who has the career assist record for the team. The San Jose Earthquakes continue to be a respected and successful franchise in MLS.
