Seattle Sounders FC today announced the return of former team captain and club icon Brad Evans, who is joining the Rave Green’s business operations in a full-time capacity as Brand Ambassador.

In this role, Evans will work across the organization to represent Sounders FC in a number of ways, including public appearances, media and broadcast work, community outreach and a variety of other duties.

“We’re extremely pleased to have Brad back with the Sounders in an official capacity,” said Sounders FC Owner Adrian Hanauer. “Brad was an integral part of the team during his years on the field and his passion for the Seattle community was only rivaled by how greatly the community embraced him in return. This new position gives him the opportunity to continue affecting change in our region while once again representing the Rave Green.”

“I had a variety of options in front of me after my playing days ended,” said Evans. “I feel truly blessed to return now, not only to Seattle, but to the Sounders on top of that. My wife and I made a home here for a decade and it feels right to be back. I’m excited to help support the team in an entirely new way.”

Evans was selected by Seattle from Columbus in the 2008 MLS Expansion Draft, joining Sounders FC as a member of its inaugural-season roster. A key contributor for his nine seasons with the club, Evans recorded time at every field position and ranks second in all-time appearances for Sounders FC with 200 (not including postseason). Evans helped the Rave Green to four Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup trophies, the 2014 Supporters’ Shield and 2016 MLS Cup, with memorable moments ranging from scoring the club’s second goal in team history to successfully converting the opening penalty kick in the 2016 MLS Cup Final at Toronto. Last season during the club’s celebration of 10 years in MLS, Evans was voted by fans, media and high-level club stakeholders as part of the club’s MLS Best XI squad.

Off the field, Evans has always been equally dedicated. He has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ rights, speaking out for inclusion, serving alongside Chad Marshall as the club’s Athlete Ally representatives and making league history as one of the first MLS captains to don a rainbow armband in support of Pride activities. Evans is also passionate about the environment and is a longtime supporter of Seattle Humane.