The Houston Dynamo history reflects the rise of one of Major League Soccer’s most successful teams. Founded in 2005, the Houston Dynamo Football Club has built a proud legacy with talented Houston Dynamo players who shaped its journey. Their passion, resilience, and achievements continue to define the club’s impact on American soccer.
Established
2005
City
Houston
League History
2006 – Present / Major League Soccer
Team History
2021 - Present / Houston Dynamo Football Club
2006 – 2020 / Houston Dynamo
Nickname
Dynamo – Houston Dynamo is one of Major League Soccer’s most successful franchises, and its nickname has a fascinating origin story. The name “Dynamo” was chosen by team owners in 2006 to honor the city’s long-standing energy industry. Houston is known as an oil and gas powerhouse, so it only seemed natural that the soccer club should pay tribute to this vital part of their hometown's identity.
Houston Dynamo Origin
The name also reflects Houston's history as a major port city with strong ties to international trade and commerce - particularly during World War II when German U-boats were active in the Gulf of Mexico off Texas' coast. During this period, "dynamo" became associated with powerful machines for generating electricity, making it an ideal choice for representing Houston's industrial might and its growing status on the global stage.
What makes Dynamo even more remarkable is how much pride locals take in their team; they often refer to themselves simply as “the Dynamo Nation." This shows how deeply rooted support runs throughout all levels of society within Houston – from local businesses who sponsor games or donate funds towards youth programs to high school teams who proudly wear orange jerseys emblazoned with ‘DYNAMO.' Then that if you're looking for passionate sports fans, look no further than those cheering on our beloved home side!
Championship
MLS Cups 2
2007, 2006
Stadium
2012 – Present / BBVA Stadium
2007, 2011 / Aggie Soccer Stadium
2006 / Carl Lewis Track & Field Stadium
2006 / Reliant Stadium
2006 - 2011 / Robertson Stadium
Owner
2015 - Present / Gabriel Brener, Oscar De La Hoya, Jake Silverstein, Ben Guill
2008 – 2015 / Anschutz Entertainment Group, Oscar De La Hoya (through Golden Boy Promotions) and Gabriel Brener
2005 - 2008 / Anschutz Entertainment Group
- 2005
- 2006
- 2007
-
Dynamo Team Formation
MLS Commissioner Don Garber revealed on November 16, 2005, that the league had granted permission to San Jose Earthquakes’ owners Anschutz Entertainment Group to relocate the team for the 2006 season, giving the entertainment giant 30 days to make a decision. Garber was in Houston and spoke with the media before an international friendly between Mexico and Bulgaria at Reliant ... -
2006 MLS Champions
MLS Cup 2006 was the 11th edition of the MLS Cup, the championship match of Major League Soccer (MLS), and took place on November 12, 2006. It was contested between the New England Revolution and the Houston Dynamo to decide the champion of the 2006 season. The match was played at Pizza Hut Park in Frisco, Texas, which had hosted ... -
2007 MLS Champs
MLS Cup 2007 was the 12th edition of the MLS Cup, the post-season championship match of Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States. It was played on November 18, 2007, at Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium in Washington, D.C., between the New England Revolution and Houston Dynamo in a rematch of the previous edition. The match determined the championship ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Houston Dynamo History
The Houston Dynamo Football Club is a professional soccer team competing in Major League Soccer (MLS) and based in Houston, Texas. Founded in 2005 as part of the league’s expansion, the team quickly became one of the most competitive sides in American soccer. From the start, the Houston Dynamo history has been filled with success, passion, and resilience on and off the field.
In 2006, only a year after their formation, the Houston Dynamo Football Club captured their first MLS Cup Championship, defeating the New England Revolution 4–3 on penalty kicks at Pizza Hut Park in Frisco, Texas. This incredible achievement solidified the Houston Dynamo players as a new powerhouse in MLS, proving that even young franchises could rise quickly to the top.
The club repeated its success the following year, winning back-to-back MLS Cup titles in 2006 and 2007. These victories highlighted the strength and unity of the Houston Dynamo players, who became known for their aggressive play style and strong team chemistry. Over the next few seasons, the team consistently performed well, reaching several playoff appearances and remaining a key competitor in the Western Conference.
Dynamo Achievements
Between 2011 and 2012, the Houston Dynamo Football Club continued their strong run, making consecutive MLS Cup Finals appearances. Although they fell short of the title during those campaigns, their performances further strengthened the Houston Dynamo history as one of dedication and consistent excellence in American soccer.
Throughout their journey, the Houston Dynamo players have included stars like Brian Ching, Brad Davis, and Boniek García, who have all contributed to the team’s success and identity. The club also won multiple U.S. Open Cup titles, further adding to their growing trophy collection and demonstrating their ability to compete in multiple competitions.
Today, the Houston Dynamo Football Club remains a respected name in MLS, with a focus on developing young talent and continuing their legacy. The Houston Dynamo history stands as a testament to hard work, teamwork, and an unshakable commitment to excellence — values that continue to inspire both players and fans alike.
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Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history