San Jose Earthquakes Soccer

San Jose Earthquakes Soccer, a privately owned entity headquartered in the US, was founded in 1974 and employs approximately 440 individuals. The company's main product offerings include sports tickets, merchandise, and sponsorship. Functioning as an American professional soccer club based in San Jose, California, the Earthquakes compete in Major League Soccer (MLS) as a member of the Western Conference. Originally known as the San Jose Clash, the franchise began play in 1996 as one of the charter members of the league, participating in the first game in MLS history with a 1–0 victory over D.C. United. The team has secured two MLS Cup titles in 2001 and 2003, and two Supporters' Shields in 2005 and 2012. In 2002, the Earthquakes played in their first CONCACAF Champions Cup, reaching the quarterfinals.