The San Jose Earthquakes history traces the rise of a proud California soccer club that helped shape MLS. From early challenges to championship victories, San Jose Earthquakes FC has become a symbol of passion and resilience. Fans continue to celebrate San Jose Earthquakes soccer for its thrilling matches and dedicated spirit on the field.
Established
1994
City
San Jose
League History
1996 – Present / Major League Soccer
Team History
2000 - 2005, 2008 – Present / San Jose Earthquakes
1996 - 1999 / San Jose Clash
Nickname
Earthquakes – The San Jose Earthquakes have been a mainstay in Major League Soccer since 1996, and their nickname has become synonymous with the team’s success. But where did this unique moniker come from?
San Jose Earthquakes Origin
The answer lies in the Bay Area’s past. In 1989, an earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale struck northern California and caused tremendous damage to both Oakland and San Francisco. The quake was so powerful that it registered as far away as Los Angeles! As such, when MLS announced plans for expansion into Northern California five years later – what better name could they choose than “Earthquakes”? It paid homage to one of nature's most destructive forces while also representing strength & resilience, two traits ideally suited for a professional sports franchise!
In addition to being symbolic of natural disasters, earthquakes can also be seen as symbolic representations of change or transformation - something which is especially relevant today given all that has happened over the last year or so with Covid-19 & social justice movements worldwide. So whether you're cheering on your favorite players at Avaya Stadium or just watching them play from home - remember why we call them "the Quakes"!
Championship
MLS Cups 2
2003, 2001
Stadium
2015 - Present / Earthquakes Stadium
2008 - 2014 / Buck Shaw Stadium
1996 - 2005 / Spartan Stadium
Owner
2007 - Present / Lewis Wolff and John J. Fisher (Earthquakes Soccer, LLC)
2003 - 2005 / Anschutz Entertainment Group
2002 - 2003 / Silicon Valley Sports & Entertainment and Anschutz Entertainment Group
2001 - 2002 / Silicon Valley Sports & Entertainment
1999 - 2000 / Robert Kraft
1996 -1998 / Major League Soccer
- 2000
- 2001
- 2003
- 2007
- 2011
- 2012
- 2018
-
Earthquakes Team Formation
The franchise’s official name changed from Clash to Earthquakes on October 27, 1999. After missing four consecutive post-seasons with three different coaches, the Earthquakes hired head coach Frank Yallop days before the 2001 MLS SuperDraft. Yallop’s personnel changes and deft coaching with the help of assistant coach Dominic Kinnear and goalkeeper coach Tim Hanley, along with the allocation of star ... -
2001 MLS Champs
MLS Cup 2001 was the sixth edition of the MLS Cup, the championship match of Major League Soccer (MLS), which took place on October 21, 2001, at Columbus Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio. It was contested by the San Jose Earthquakes and the Los Angeles Galaxy, a pair of in-state rivals from California, to decide the champion of the 2001 ... -
2003 MLS Champs
MLS Cup 2003 was the eighth edition of the MLS Cup, the championship match of Major League Soccer (MLS), which took place on November 23, 2003. It was hosted at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California, and was contested by the Chicago Fire and the San Jose Earthquakes to decide the champion of the 2003 season. Both teams had ... -
MLS Awarded Expansion for San Jose Earthquakes
In 2007: MLS announced that Wolff would be awarded an expansion team that would begin play in 2008 as a continuation of San Jose Earthquakes. Wolff also bought an option to relocate an existing team to San Jose if his expansion bid failed -
San Jose Qualified for the playoffs for second consecutive year
In 2011: The club had a strong season, finishing second in the Western Conference and qualifying for the playoffs for the second consecutive year. However, they lost to LA Galaxy 3–2 on aggregate in the conference semifinals. -
San Jose Earthquakes Wins Supporters’ Shield
In 2012: The San Jose Earthquakes club had its best regular season ever, finishing first in the Western Conference and winning its first Supporters’ Shield, as the team with the best record in MLS. -
Earthquakes Team Hired Matías Almeyda as Head Coach
In 2018: The club fired Stahre and hired Matías Almeyda as the new head coach. Almeyda implemented an aggressive pressing style that earned praise from fans and pundits.
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.
San Jose Earthquakes History
The San Jose Earthquakes are a professional soccer team based in San Jose, California, and one of the most respected clubs in Major League Soccer. The team was founded in 1996 as one of the original ten franchises of MLS. Since its debut season, the San Jose Earthquakes FC have grown into a well-recognized force in American soccer, representing the heart of California’s soccer culture.
From their early years, the San Jose Earthquakes soccer team built a reputation for resilience and thrilling performances. The club quickly earned success by winning multiple titles, including two MLS Cup championships, two Supporters’ Shields, and the prestigious CONCACAF Champions Cup. Their competitive spirit and loyal fan base have made them one of the most enduring names in MLS history.
Several legendary players have shaped the San Jose Earthquakes history, including Chris Wondolowski, who became the all-time leading goal scorer in MLS, and Landon Donovan, whose influence elevated both club and country. Other icons like Ramiro Corrales and Ronald Cerritos contributed significantly during the team’s early playoff runs, including the memorable 2001 season that marked the Quakes’ rise as true contenders.
The San Jose Earthquakes history also achieved major success during the early 2000s, claiming MLS Cup titles in 2001 and 2003, both of which remain proud milestones in the team’s history. Their exciting style of play, fueled by teamwork and determination, earned them a strong following throughout the Bay Area. The Earthquakes continued to be a dominant presence, consistently producing some of the most exciting matches in Major League Soccer.
Earthquakes Achievements
Under recent leadership and ownership, the San Jose Earthquakes soccer team has focused on revitalizing its performance and nurturing local talent. The arrival of coach Matías Almeyda brought a new identity to the club, blending attacking creativity with youthful energy. Rising stars such as Cade Cowell and seasoned players like Florian Jungwirth have continued to strengthen the squad.
In recent seasons, the San Jose Earthquakes FC have made significant progress, with key wins and improved performances in the MLS Western Conference. Their continued efforts in youth development, community engagement, and international partnerships show a club committed to long-term success. As the San Jose Earthquakes history continues to grow, fans remain hopeful for more championships and unforgettable moments in the years ahead.
The San Jose Earthquakes FC achievements include two MLS Cups (2001, 2003), two Supporters’ Shields (2005, 2012), and numerous playoff appearances that reflect their consistency. Beyond trophies, the San Jose Earthquakes soccer legacy lies in its passionate supporters, its contributions to American soccer, and its determination to stay competitive at every level of the game. The team’s journey stands as a proud example of perseverance, passion, and excellence in MLS.
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Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history