Ezra Hendrickson, Vincentian footballer and manager

Ezra Hendrickson, born on January 16, 1972, is a highly respected Vincentian professional football (soccer) coach and a distinguished former player. Currently, he holds the esteemed position of head coach for Major League Soccer (MLS) club Chicago Fire FC, leading one of the premier professional sports teams in the United States.

Born in Layou, a picturesque village in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Hendrickson embarked on his journey to the United States at a young age with his family. His foundational soccer skills were honed during his collegiate career, where he notably played college soccer for the Drake Bulldogs, representing Drake University in NCAA Division I competition. This period is often a crucial developmental phase for aspiring professional players in the American soccer landscape.

Ezra Hendrickson's Illustrious Playing Career

Hendrickson's senior playing career commenced in the semi-professional ranks, an important stepping stone for many emerging talents. He notably featured for the Des Moines Menace and the New Orleans Riverboat Gamblers. His undeniable talent quickly caught the attention of Major League Soccer teams, leading to his selection in the 1997 MLS Supplemental Draft by the NY/NJ MetroStars, a franchise now known as the New York Red Bulls. Although his tenure with the MetroStars was brief, being cut midseason, this setback proved to be a pivotal moment as he subsequently joined the Los Angeles Galaxy.

It was with the LA Galaxy, one of MLS's most storied franchises, that Ezra Hendrickson truly established himself as a formidable defender. He was an integral part of a robust defense that achieved significant success, including winning the coveted Supporters' Shield in 1998, an award presented annually to the MLS team with the best regular-season record. His time with the Galaxy culminated in a historic 2002 season, where the team secured both the Supporters' Shield and the prestigious MLS Cup, the league's ultimate championship trophy won through a playoff tournament. In 2003, Hendrickson was traded from the Galaxy to the Dallas Burn, a club now recognized as FC Dallas.

Further MLS Triumphs and International Representation

Following the 2003 MLS season, Hendrickson briefly transitioned to the A-League (which later evolved into the USL Championship, a prominent second-tier league), joining the Charleston Battery. However, his return to Major League Soccer was swift, as he signed with D.C. United, another historic and successful MLS franchise. With D.C. United, Hendrickson added a second MLS Cup to his impressive resume, even though he was an unused substitute in the final match, still contributing to the team's success. His career path continued with a move to Chivas USA, a former MLS club known for its focus on Mexican-American talent development, before he joined the Columbus Crew in 2006.

Ezra Hendrickson concluded his distinguished playing career in 2008, doing so on a high note by securing both his third MLS Cup and second Supporters' Shield with the Columbus Crew. Beyond his club achievements, Hendrickson proudly represented his home nation, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. He earned 36 caps for the "Vincy Heat," as the national team is affectionately known, scoring two international goals during his dedicated service to the national team in CONCACAF competitions.

Ezra Hendrickson's Coaching Journey

In 2009, Ezra Hendrickson seamlessly transitioned from player to coach, embarking on a new chapter that has seen him rise through the coaching ranks. He began his coaching career as an assistant coach for Major League Soccer expansion club Seattle Sounders FC. This move marked a significant reunion, as he joined the staff of his former head coach, Sigi Schmid, a legendary figure in MLS coaching history known for his tactical acumen and player development expertise. Schmid's mentorship proved invaluable for Hendrickson.

During his tenure as an assistant with the Sounders, Hendrickson frequently took charge of the club's reserve side, playing a key role in developing future talents. His dedication and expertise led to his appointment in 2015 as the first head coach of Seattle Sounders FC 2 (S2), the club's professional reserve affiliate, which serves as a crucial development pathway for young players. While leading S2, Hendrickson simultaneously lent his expertise as an assistant coach for the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines national team, further demonstrating his commitment to the development of soccer in his home country. In 2018, he departed both roles to return as an assistant to Sigi Schmid, this time with the LA Galaxy, reuniting with the club where he enjoyed significant playing success.

From 2019 to 2021, Hendrickson served as an assistant coach for the Columbus Crew, working under head coach Caleb Porter. This period saw the Crew achieve notable success, further solidifying Hendrickson's reputation as a valuable member of a coaching staff. His extensive experience, both as a player and an assistant coach across multiple successful MLS franchises, culminated in his announcement as the head coach of the Chicago Fire for the 2022 season, marking a significant milestone in his coaching career.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ezra Hendrickson

When was Ezra Hendrickson born?

Ezra Hendrickson was born on January 16, 1972.

What is Ezra Hendrickson's current role in Major League Soccer?

Ezra Hendrickson is currently the head coach of Major League Soccer (MLS) club Chicago Fire FC.

Which MLS teams did Ezra Hendrickson play for?

Ezra Hendrickson played for the NY/NJ MetroStars, Los Angeles Galaxy, Dallas Burn, D.C. United, Chivas USA, and Columbus Crew during his MLS playing career.

How many MLS Cups did Ezra Hendrickson win as a player?

Ezra Hendrickson won three MLS Cups as a player: in 2002 with the LA Galaxy, in 2004 with D.C. United, and in 2008 with the Columbus Crew.

Did Ezra Hendrickson play for his national team?

Yes, Ezra Hendrickson represented Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, earning 36 caps and scoring two goals for his national team.

Where did Ezra Hendrickson begin his coaching career?

Ezra Hendrickson began his coaching career in 2009 as an assistant coach for Seattle Sounders FC, working under head coach Sigi Schmid.