P. Kingston’s Secret Weapon: How the #45 Midfielder Sneaks Past Defenders—And Steals Sandwiches!
Ever wonder who’s been wearing the number 45 for Tacoma Defiance and has roots that run deep in the Seattle Sounders FC system? That’s Peter Kingston. He’s a midfielder who got his start in the Sounders Academy, then sharpened his game at Seattle University and the University of Washington, and picked up a winning streak with Ballard FC. Peter Kingston plays midfield for Tacoma Defiance, wears #45, and came up through the Sounders pathway.
His career’s touched almost every level of soccer in the region. He played academy matches with the Sounders, then made clutch plays at Seattle U and Washington. With Ballard FC, he delivered goals and assists that helped them win a national championship. Kingston’s shown he can handle the pressure.
Now, he’s stepping up to the pro stage with Tacoma Defiance in MLS Next Pro. Years in the Sounders pipeline and tough college games shaped his journey, and he’s following a path a lot of young players dream about. Let’s take a closer look at how he’s developed, his impact at each stop, and what makes him worth tracking as his career unfolds.
Contents
Player Overview
Kingston built his game over years in the Seattle Sounders Academy. He honed it in college at Seattle University and Washington, and now he’s carrying it into the pro ranks with Tacoma Defiance. He’s got steady development, tactical awareness, and a clear role on the pitch.
Personal Information
Peter Kingston was born on July 14, 2001 in Tukwila, Washington. He grew up in the Seattle area, with the Sounders Academy laying the foundation for his soccer education starting back in 2014.
Standing 5-foot-11 and 155 pounds, he’s got enough size to handle midfield battles but stays agile. He’s been around winning teams since he was a kid.
Kingston spent three seasons at Seattle University. He played in 45 matches and helped the Redhawks win the 2021 WAC Tournament. After that, he transferred to the University of Washington, where he put up six goals and five assists as a senior in 2024.
While juggling college soccer, he logged big minutes with Ballard FC in USL League Two. He made 50 appearances, scored 10 goals, and racked up 22 assists, playing a big part in the club’s 2023 national title. His climb through the levels has been steady.
Playing Position and Style
You’ll mostly see Kingston as a midfielder. He does more than just score—he links play, distributes the ball, and covers ground at both ends.
At Washington, he showed he could get into the box and finish. At Seattle U, he was more of a connector, picking up five assists over three seasons. With Ballard FC, he really showed off his creativity, notching 22 assists in just two summers.
Kingston’s style is about timing and vision. He’s not the most physical guy out there, but he reads the game and always seems to be in the right spot. Coaches have relied on him in big matches, like the WAC final where he grabbed MVP honors.
College and USL League Two stats
| Team | Matches | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle University | 45 | 2 | 5 |
| Washington | 39 | 8 | 10 |
| Ballard FC | 50 | 10 | 22 |
Jersey Number
Kingston wears number 45 for Tacoma Defiance. For fans, it might not have the same weight as a 7 or 10, but it says something about where he is in his pro journey.
Numbers in the 40s usually go to younger or newly signed players. For Kingston, it marks his first pro contract, which he signed in March 2025.
If he keeps moving up, that number might change. Right now, it shows he’s working his way into a squad that values development. He’ll make the most of it, no matter what’s on his back.
You can check out his current role with Tacoma Defiance.
Professional Career with Tacoma Defiance
Kingston’s path to Tacoma Defiance shows steady growth from college at Seattle U and Washington to the pro stage. Joining the Sounders’ second team keeps him in the system where he started, and gives him a shot in MLS NEXT Pro.
Signing and Contract Details
Kingston signed with Tacoma Defiance on March 3, 2025, right after wrapping up his college career. The club announced him along with fellow midfielder Charlie Gaffney, both on MLS NEXT Pro contracts. This deal brought Kingston back to the Sounders organization, where he’d played in the Academy.
He’s a familiar face in Seattle soccer circles, having played for Ballard FC in USL League Two before turning pro. His signing mattered because of his local ties and his track record at Seattle U and Washington.
Defiance highlighted his versatility and college experience in their announcement, pointing out his impact on the field. You can find his official roster profile on the Tacoma Defiance website.
Role in MLS Next Pro
Kingston’s expected to play central midfield for Tacoma, contributing in possession and transition. At Washington, he showed he could create chances, with six goals and five assists in 2024. That production earned him a role balancing defense and attack.
Tacoma Defiance often relies on academy products to develop into first-team options for Seattle Sounders FC. Kingston fits that mold, bringing experience from top college games and USL League Two. He adds depth in midfield and gives coaches a reliable option in the rotation.
At 5-foot-9 and 153 pounds, Kingston isn’t the biggest guy out there, but his technical skills and awareness make him valuable. He already knows the Sounders’ style, which helps his transition into the league.
Key Performances
Kingston’s early matches with Tacoma have shown the same qualities he displayed in college: calm on the ball and always looking to push forward. He’s already been part of a squad that scored a ton in 2025—Tacoma racked up 45 goals through midseason, according to Stats Crew.
He’s been creating scoring chances since his Ballard FC days, where he totaled 22 assists over three seasons. That playmaking is still at the heart of his game with Tacoma.
Here’s a quick look at Kingston’s recent college and early pro numbers:
| Team | Years | Matches | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle University | 2020-2022 | 45 | 2 | 5 |
| Washington Huskies | 2023-2024 | 39 | 8 | 10 |
| Ballard FC (USL2) | 2022-2024 | 50 | 10 | 22 |
| Tacoma Defiance (MLSNP) | 2025 | Ongoing | — | — |
You can see in these stats how Kingston built a steady record of contributions. Now, he’s looking to turn those numbers into consistent MLS NEXT Pro performances.
Collegiate Soccer Journey
Kingston’s college journey was all about steady progress. He started at Seattle University, then raised his profile at the University of Washington. Each stop helped him grow and get noticed at the college level.
Seattle University Achievements
At Seattle University, Kingston became a steady presence in midfield. From 2020 to 2022, he played in 45 matches, started 38, scored two goals, and added five assists. His biggest moment came in the 2021 Western Athletic Conference Tournament, where he was named MVP after helping the Redhawks win the championship.
He didn’t just show up for the big games—he played every week. In 2021, he didn’t miss a match, one of only two Redhawks to do that. Coaches knew they could count on him.
Seattle U Stats (2020-2022)
| Matches Played | Starts | Goals | Assists | Honors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 45 | 38 | 2 | 5 | 2021 WAC Tournament MVP |
His time at Seattle U overlapped with his run at Ballard FC in USL League Two. That gave him year-round competition and kept him sharp.
University of Washington Impact
When Kingston transferred to the University of Washington, his role got bigger. In 2024, he scored six goals and added five assists, earning Second Team All-Big Ten honors. His production helped the Huskies reach the second round of the NCAA Tournament—a strong finish that highlighted his growth and impact at a higher level.
His time with the Huskies wasn’t just about stats. He adjusted to a new system and a tougher conference, but still found ways to make a difference. Coaches noticed how quickly he fit in.
Washington 2024 Season
- Goals: 6
- Assists: 5
- Conference Honors: Second Team All-Big Ten
- NCAA Tournament: Second Round appearance
At Washington, Kingston sharpened his attacking instincts and became more direct in the final third. That made him a more complete midfielder and set him up for the pro game.
Success with Ballard FC
With Ballard FC, Kingston showed he was more than just a college player. USL League Two gave him a chance to compete at a higher level, sharpen his skills, and step up in big moments.
USL League Two Championships
Ballard FC entered USL League Two in 2022 and became contenders right away. By 2023, they won their first league championship—a huge feat for a new team. Kingston played a big part in that run, staying cool under pressure.
In the title match against Lionsbridge FC, Kingston scored in second-half stoppage time to seal a 2-1 win. That goal didn’t just win the trophy—it proved he could deliver when it mattered most.
You can really see his impact in the postseason. Even as a midfielder, he created scoring chances, pressed opponents, and kept possession steady. Those traits made him one of the most dependable players out there.
Championship Match Stats (2023 Final):
| Player | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played | Key Passes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peter Kingston | 1 | 0 | 90 | 3 |
Northwest Division Titles
Ballard FC played in the Northwest Division of USL League Two, which is always tough. Winning the division is never a given, but the team stayed near the top with consistent performances.
Kingston’s steady midfield play was a huge factor. He helped Ballard keep possession against pressing teams and linked defense to attack. His reading of the game gave Ballard an edge in tight spots.
In 2023, Ballard not only took the division but made a deep playoff run. That momentum carried them to the championship, and Kingston’s contributions fit perfectly into the team’s system.
Notable Contributions
Kingston balanced college soccer at Seattle University with summer play at Ballard FC. That combo helped him develop tactical smarts and build endurance.
He made his biggest impact in the clutch. Beyond his title-winning goal, he regularly delivered clean passes, pressed opponents into mistakes, and set up teammates to score. Coaches trusted him late in games because he kept his cool.
His leadership also started to show. Even as a young player, he communicated well on the field and set the tone with his work rate. Those qualities followed him to Tacoma Defiance and helped him earn looks with Seattle Sounders FC.
Development in Seattle Sounders FC Academy
Peter Kingston’s time with the Seattle Sounders FC Academy really shaped his path. He showed standout performances in youth tournaments and grew steadily through the age levels. That gave him a solid foundation to succeed at Seattle University and the University of Washington, before he turned pro.
Youth Tournament Success
Kingston jumped into the Sounders Academy in 2014, right when the program started getting noticed for producing first-team talent. You can follow his early progress through team achievements that highlighted his technical skill and vision in midfield.
He helped the U-17 squad win the 2018 Generation adidas Cup Premier Division. That competition threw the club against international opponents, so it definitely tested everyone.
That experience gave Kingston exposure to different playing styles and pushed his competitive edge higher. Earlier, he played a role in the 2017-2018 U.S. Development Academy Championship, a title that added to the Sounders’ reputation for developing adaptable players.
He also featured in the 2016 Youdan Trophy, a youth tournament in England, and the Sounders came out on top.
These tournaments let Kingston compete under pressure. They also got him ready for the grind of college soccer, where he later became a key contributor at both Seattle U and Washington.
Notable Youth Honors
| Year | Tournament | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Youdan Trophy | Winner |
| 2017-2018 | U.S. Development Academy | Champion |
| 2018 | Generation adidas Cup (Premier) | Winner |
Progression Through Academy Ranks
Kingston’s journey through the Sounders Academy looks like a steady climb. He started in the younger age groups and moved up into the U-17s. His role shifted from developing prospect to reliable starter.
The Academy’s setup let him train with players who eventually joined Tacoma Defiance and the Seattle Sounders first team. That environment forced him to make sharper decisions and get physically tougher—he improved in those areas every year.
By the time he left the Academy, Kingston had built a reputation as a midfielder who could link play and create chances. He also got comfortable with the Sounders’ style of play, which made his later jumps to Ballard FC and then Tacoma Defiance feel more natural.
If you’re looking for a lesson here, the Academy’s pathway really does prepare players for the pro level. Kingston’s progression shows that steady development and competitive opportunities can lead to a career that bridges youth, college, and pro soccer in Seattle’s system.
Playing Attributes and Recognition
Peter Kingston stands out as a midfielder who mixes technical sharpness with steady growth through academy and college play. His time with the Seattle Sounders Academy and later at Seattle University shaped his style. He balances skill, awareness, and consistency.
Technical Skills and Versatility
Kingston’s game leans on precise passing and adapting to different midfield roles. You notice he can play centrally or out wide, using his vision to connect play and keep the ball under pressure.
At Seattle University, he made 42 appearances. That shows reliability and fitness across multiple seasons.
He moved well off the ball, creating openings for teammates, even if he didn’t always end up on the scoresheet. Over time, you could see his shot selection improve.
During one season, he took 22 shots with six on target. That’s a sign of growing confidence in the attack. He’s not a big scorer, but his timing and positioning gave him chances to make an impact.
Statistical Snapshot
| Category | College Career (Seattle U) |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 42 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Shots | 22 |
| Position | Midfielder |
This profile paints a picture of a player who values control and steady choices over flashy moments.
Awards and Honors
People started recognizing Kingston early in his career. When he played with the Seattle Sounders FC Academy, he helped the team win the 2016 Youdan Trophy.
He also played a key part in the 2017-18 USSDA Championship and the 2017-18 GA Cup. Those tournaments really showed how much he contributed to squads that made a mark both nationally and internationally.
At college, Kingston saw regular playing time with the Seattle Redhawks. Just getting that much time on the field says a lot about how much coaches trusted him in the midfield.
Even if individual awards didn’t always come his way, he kept earning responsibility. Coaches leaned on him to anchor the middle of the pitch.
When he moved up to the Seattle Sounders, he wore No. 45. That step up really shows how much he’d grown and how the club saw his potential in a tough MLS setting.
Sure, his shelf might not be crowded with personal trophies, but his steady role in winning teams speaks volumes about his impact.
