The Defiance announced today the signing of highly rated academy center back Gallatin Sandnes. The club signing Sandnes to a professional contract was unsurprising given he has joined the first team on two preseason trips to Marbella, Spain and has been praised by the likes of Brian Schmetzer.
“Gallatin has earned this opportunity through the work he’s put in every day, both in our academy and with Tacoma Defiance,” said Sounders FC Director of Development Wade Webber. “He’s consistently shown that he can compete at a higher level, and each time he’s stepped onto the field with Defiance he’s demonstrated the maturity, quality and mentality we look for in young players. Gallatin is another great example of the strong developmental pathway at our organization, and we’re excited to see him keep pushing himself and take the next step in his career within our pathway.”
Sandnes has already established himself as a starter for Defiance and has appeared in 14 of the club’s 16 games this season. His consistent presence has helped improve the Defiance defensive record, with the team allowing about 1.38 goals against per game compared to 2.39 in 2025.
“Gallatin has earned this contract through his performances and the consistency he’s shown every time he’s been with our group,” said Tacoma Defiance Head Coach Paulo Nagamura. “He’s taken advantage of every opportunity, and his growth has been clear to everyone in our environment. He brings quality on the ball, a strong understanding of the game and a willingness to work for the team. We’re happy to continue working with him and we believe he has can be an important player for Tacoma Defiance.”
This year he has been asked to do a similar job to first-teamer and academy graduate Jackson Ragen. He plays as the central defender in a back 3 when the team is in possession and shows comfort on the ball with an average of 87% pass completion. Defensively he is an organizer and excels in positioning to cut out dangerous chances before they materialize.
Sandnes was a player identified as one to watch before the season started and he is coming through on that promise.
