Seattle's annual celebration of athletes across sports in the region has two Sounders and one Reign up for best of 2014 awards. Both pro soccer teams are also eligible to win their category, Story of the Year. The winners are decided by a mix of fan voting and select media recognition. The Seattle Sports Commission holds the annual Sports Star of the Year dinner and auction.
Seattle Male Athlete of the Year nominees include both Obafemi Martins and Clint Dempsey. The Sounders stars face off against Earl Thomas (Seahawks), Shaq Thompson (Husky Football), Kyle Seager (Mariners) and Connor Halliday (Cougar Football).
Seattle Female Athlete of the Year options include the Reign's Kim Little up against SooBin Kim (Husky Golf), Kelsey Plum (Husky Basketball), Tia Presley (Cougar Basketball), Lianna Sybeldon (Husky Volleyball), and Stephanie Verdoia (Redhawk Soccer).
The Sports Story of the Year should just close voting now. Both the Sounders' and Reign's shield-winning seasons are up for nomination. Joining them in getting crushed are UW Men's Crew getting a fourth straight national title, and the Mariners' resurgence. But the winner will be the Seahawks winning the Super Bowl, because NFL and Super Bowl.
There is a strong chance for Kim Little to take home this recognition. Vote splitting probably hurts Clint and Oba.
Online voting continues into January, and the ceremony at Benaroya Hall will be on Jan. 21.