Sounders history goes back a way. This is the 40th year of Sounders soccer in the Seattle area. There are starts and stops, but throughout those years one thing remained constant: A connection to the fans and a winning tradition. MOHAI and Sounders FC gathered items from the eras of Seattle’s professional soccer history, most never before displayed in public, and put together an exhibit so you can learn your Sounders history.

Maybe you’re a bit young or from a far off land and the NASL Sounders are unknown. This display can help you learn about Pepe Fernandez, Mike England and the others that ran the pitch at Memorial Stadium and the Kingdome.

Were you aware that the Sounders played in the 1990s before Adrian Hanauer purchased the team? Learn about those heroes, like Marcus Hahnemann. Yes, Marcus Hahnemann. They played at Memorial Stadium both in Seattle and Renton while in the A-League and won titles.

When current Hanauer acquired the USL Sounders he set them on a path to trophies. Several current and former Sounders FC players were on those cup winning teams. Top Assistant Coach Brian Schmetzer coached those sides of players that were just outside of MLS at the time.

History is not just an infographic or a song. It lives and changes how we view the present. The foundation of community pride and team connection goes back 40 years. It is displayed in the stadium on matchday and the team entry tunnel is adorned with the words of former players, coaches and fans.

With this Thursday event at MOHAI you will have the opportunity to experience a bit of that history. Seattle Sounders FC players will be there from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

The event opens at 10 a.m. and will conclude at 8 p.m., and is free to the public.