Qwest Field Fully Open Thursday Against New York Red Bulls

UPDATE: As of Monday morning, Sounders officials reported having sold more than 43,000 tickets for Thursday's match. That would be a Sounders record.

Seattle Sounders fans have the ability to again make their mark in the record books. For the game against the New York Red Bulls the front office first created the three-game premier pack, and now have opened all or nearly all of the 300 level for single game purchasing at 15$ plus fees. That provides the city, particularly those non-season ticket holding fans, to show the nation (the game is on ESPN2) that this city loves soccer. It gives all fans an opportunity to show the front office that there are more than 36,000 people who want to be in the stadium.

Now, recently we've pushed our ticket partnership with TiqIQ, and others have suggested the exchange or craigslist. This isn't the match for that. If you love the game - go to the game. The price point and views are solid. Red Bull New York has some quality talent, despite Gold Cup losses of Tim Ream and Rafa Marquez, among others. Those that don't follow MLS will of course know Thierry Henry (who won't go 90 because he's scared of Turf), but there are other quality players like Luke Rodgers. Red Bull are one of the top tier teams in this league and play a quality game on most nights. Prior to their Sunday match against the Portland Timbers they sit in first in the East with 22 points in 14, score the most goals per match and are fifth in goals against per match.

For those looking at taking their families the club has organized a block party in the North Lot with some free food, activities and other madness. You can make Thursday afternoon and evening a celebration of family and soccer. To quote Joe Roth;

"Our fans demonstrate their passion for the team at every match, rain or shine. The Summer Block Party is one opportunity for us to say thanks."

This is the opportunity to practice some awesome soccer evangelism. Get fans of the beautiful game up in those seats. If you are normally in the Ring lead some chants and show those behind you that this is not just a match, but an experience. Make it big. Make it grand.

Full press release on the Block Party;

Sounders FC to Host Summer Block Party on June 23

First 1000 fans will receive complimentary Hawaiian pulled pork sliders

RENTON, Wash. - Seattle Sounders FC announced today the details for the inaugural Summer Block Party to be held in the North Lot of Qwest Field prior to the Sounders FC versus New York Red Bulls match. Access to the Summer Block Party begins at 5 p.m. and is open to all fans, including non-ticket holders. There is no charge to enter.

For the first time in MLS play, Sounders FC will open upper level seating beyond normal capacity. Tickets are available for $15.

"Our fans demonstrate their passion for the team at every match, rain or shine," said Sounders FC owner Joe Roth.  "The Summer Block Party is one opportunity for us to say thanks."

The Summer Block Party will include the following activities:

• Fans may enjoy the Bud Light Beer Garden where they can pose for pictures with the 2009 and 2010 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup trophies. Fans must be at least 21 years-old to access.
• Levy Restaurants will provide free Hawaiian pulled pork sliders topped with pineapple BBQ sauce to the first 1,000 fans and staff additional food and beverage portables.
• Complimentary samples from Johnsonville Sausage - The NEW Chipotle Monterey Jack Smoked Chicken Sausage
• Music by the Caribbean Vision Steel Drum Band
• Face Painters
• Sign Making Stand
• Dunk Tank
• Inflatable Jousting Tower
• Play a pick-up game of beach soccer on over eight tons of sand

Kickoff for the Sounders FC versus the New York Red Bulls is set for 7 p.m. PT.  The match will be broadcast nationwide on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes.

Sounders FC tickets are available by phone at 1-877-MLS-GOAL or online at www.SoundersFC.com.