The Houston Dynamo are celebrating their Season 20 anniversary, bringing back legendary players like Dwayne De Rosario, Brad Davis, Stu Holden, and Brian Ching. This reunion is not just a nostalgic look back, but a celebration of the team’s early success and the strong connection forged with the Houston community. The Dynamo’s initial move from San Jose to Houston marked a significant chapter in MLS history, and the upcoming festivities promise to honor that legacy.
This article delves into De Rosario’s reflections on the team’s early days, the bond formed with his teammates, and his thoughts on the future of soccer in Canada, particularly concerning the upcoming 2026 World Cup. It also touches upon the personal pride he feels as he watches his children pursue their own careers in soccer. The reunion serves as a reminder of the impact these players had on the city and the sport.
Embracing Houston: De Rosario’s First Impressions
Dwayne De Rosario recalls his initial move to Houston with a mix of uncertainty and excitement. Leaving the West Coast with his family, he wasn’t sure how the team would be received in a new city. However, the warm welcome from Houston fans quickly quelled any doubts.
“The question we had of how we would be received was answered very quickly by the support we received when we relocated,” De Rosario told MLSsoccer.com. The community’s enthusiastic backing made the transition seamless, and the team quickly felt at home.
The initial stir caused by the team’s name only fueled the excitement. It became clear that Houston had a passionate fan base eager to embrace their new team. This strong community support played a crucial role in the Dynamo’s early success.
Season 20 Reunion: A Celebration of Dynamo Legends
This weekend, fans will have the opportunity to celebrate the Dynamo’s Season 20 alongside their favorite legends. The festivities include autograph sessions with Dynamo alumni and a 5v5 match where fans can play alongside these iconic players at Discovery Green, near Shell Energy Stadium.
The reunion is a testament to the lasting impact these players had on the city. De Rosario, Davis, Holden, and Ching, among others, will be celebrated for their contributions to the team’s success. Their presence is sure to ignite a sense of nostalgia and pride among Dynamo fans.
The event promises to be a memorable experience for fans of all ages, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the players who helped shape the Dynamo’s identity. It’s a chance to relive the glory days and celebrate the team’s rich history.
Building a Dynasty: The Dynamo’s Early Triumphs
The Houston Dynamo quickly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in MLS. De Rosario played a pivotal role in their early success, forming a potent attacking partnership with Brian Ching. Their on-field chemistry was evident from the start, with De Rosario assisting four of Ching’s goals in their inaugural game.
The team’s success culminated in back-to-back MLS Cup victories in their first two years in Houston. De Rosario’s standout performance in the 2007 final earned him the MVP award, solidifying his place in Dynamo history. These early triumphs were a result of the team’s collective effort and unwavering commitment to each other.
De Rosario emphasizes the strong bond that formed among the players during their transition to Houston. “I think the unknown of moving to Houston brought us stronger together, not only as players and a unit but as a family,” he explains. This close-knit atmosphere fostered a winning mentality and made the Dynamo a formidable opponent.
Full Circle: Onstad’s Leadership Role
Pat Onstad, a key figure in the Dynamo’s early success, now serves as the team’s president of soccer. His journey from goalkeeper to front office executive is a testament to his leadership qualities and dedication to the club. The Dynamo are honoring Onstad’s contributions with a bobblehead giveaway, commemorating his iconic penalty save in the 2006 MLS Cup shootout.
De Rosario views Onstad’s current position as a “full-circle” moment, highlighting their shared history both with the Dynamo and the Canadian national team. They were part of the squad that won Canada’s last trophy, the 2000 Gold Cup, a victory that holds special significance for Canadian soccer fans.
Onstad’s leadership and vision are crucial to the Dynamo’s future success. His understanding of the game and his commitment to the club make him an invaluable asset to the organization.
Looking Ahead: De Rosario on Canada’s World Cup Potential
With Canada set to co-host the 2026 World Cup, there’s a growing sense of optimism surrounding the men’s national team. De Rosario is among those who believe that Canada has the potential to achieve great things on the international stage. He acknowledges the challenges ahead but expresses confidence in head coach Jesse Marsch’s ability to lead the team to success.
De Rosario points to the increasing number of Canadian players gaining experience in top leagues around the world as a positive sign. He believes that this exposure will help the team compete against the world’s best. However, he emphasizes the need for the team to develop a “bite” and a “fight” in order to win trophies.
The upcoming World Cup presents a golden opportunity for Canada to showcase its talent and inspire a new generation of soccer players. With the support of the nation, the team has the potential to make a significant impact on the tournament.
A Family Affair: De Rosario’s Soccer Legacy
De Rosario’s passion for soccer extends beyond his own career. He’s now a proud soccer dad, watching his four children pursue their own dreams in the sport. His oldest son, Osaze, plays for Tacoma Defiance and represents Guyana internationally. His two younger sons are both goalkeepers, inspired by Pat Onstad’s influence during their time in Houston.
De Rosario expresses immense pride in his children’s accomplishments, emphasizing the importance of health and dedication in pursuing their goals. He acknowledges his role in steering them towards soccer, hoping they would follow in his footsteps. Seeing them thrive in the sport brings him great joy and satisfaction.
The De Rosario family’s story is a testament to the power of soccer to connect generations and create lasting memories. His contributions to the sport, both on and off the field, have left an indelible mark on Canadian soccer.
A Lasting Impact: Reflecting on the Dynamo’s Legacy
Dwayne De Rosario’s reunion with his former Houston Dynamo teammates is more than just a nostalgic event; it’s a celebration of the team’s legacy and the enduring bond forged with the city. The Dynamo’s early success, fueled by the talent and dedication of players like De Rosario, Onstad, Davis, and Ching, helped establish soccer as a major sport in Houston.
The Season 20 celebrations offer a chance to reflect on the team’s achievements and honor the players who made it all possible. It’s a reminder of the importance of community support and the power of sport to bring people together. As De Rosario looks ahead, he expresses optimism for the future of soccer in both Canada and the United States, inspired by the passion and commitment of the next generation of players.
The Houston Dynamo’s story is one of triumph, camaraderie, and community. The legacy of those early teams continues to inspire fans and players alike, ensuring that the Dynamo’s impact on the city will be felt for years to come.
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