Sounders Goalkeeper Stefan Frei Rushed to Hospital After Head Injury in Intense Collision

SEATTLE (AP) — During a recent Major League Soccer match, Seattle Sounders goalkeeper Stefan Frei was taken off the field by ambulance after a head injury. He collided with a Columbus Crew player while trying to make a play, dropping to the ground right away. Thankfully, Frei was alert as he left the field, according to Sounders coach Brian Schmetzer.

Frei later shared on social media that he had returned home from the hospital. He expressed gratitude for the support he received during this challenging time, saying, “What resonates is all the messages, calls, and love I’ve received from so many of you.”

This incident happened with the game tied at 1-1, deep into stoppage time. Both coaches, Schmetzer and Wilfried Nancy of the Crew, urged the referee to stop the match. When it became clear that a call needed to be made, the fans showed their support by chanting Frei’s name. The mutual respect between the coaches was evident, with Schmetzer thanking Nancy for his decision to call the game to a close.

Frei has been a key player for the Sounders since 2014. He has helped the team secure two MLS Cups and has a record of 1,000 regular-season saves, a milestone few goalkeepers reach. Only one other player, Nick Rimando, has more saves with a single team. Frei’s journey began in Switzerland, but he moved to the U.S. as a teenager, showcasing his talents at the University of California.

In recent years, player safety has become a hot topic in sports. According to the CDC, traumatic brain injuries in sports have increased, leading to stricter rules and better protocols for handling such cases on the field. This incident shines a light on the ongoing conversations about athlete safety and the importance of quick medical response.

Frei’s situation not only highlights the risks players face but also the sense of community in sports, evident in the outpouring of support from fans and fellow players alike.

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Stefan Frei, Columbus Crew SC, Athlete injuries, Wilfried Nancy, Seattle Sounders FC, Brian Schmetzer, MLS soccer, Soccer, WA State Wire, Washington, Sports, Seattle, Nick Rimando