The Houston Dynamo bring a legacy of early success and a passionate Latin American flair to MLS's Western Conference. The club calls Shell Energy Stadium in downtown Houston its home, a venue known for its vibrant atmosphere. Founded in 2005, the Dynamo, wearing orange, white, and black, are owned by Ted Segal and managed by head coach Ben Olsen. The team's name honors Houston's energy industry and its dynamic, powerful spirit. The Dynamo's peak came immediately, winning back-to-back MLS Cup championships in 2006 and 2007 under coach Dominic Kinnear, with a core of players like Brian Ching, Dwayne De Rosario, and Brad Davis defining an era of gritty, winning soccer. They added U.S. Open Cup titles in 2018 and 2023 to their trophy case. The modern era has seen periods of rebuilding, but the 2023 Open Cup victory and a return to the playoffs signal a resurgence. The current squad features exciting talents like Héctor Herrera and Adalberto "Coco" Carrasquilla. The team's culture is deeply intertwined with Houston's diverse community, particularly its strong connection to the city's Hispanic population, making matchdays a festive and loud celebration. The Houston Dynamo remain a club with a proud history and the potential to rise again.