Headline
Headline
Back to Bellingham, WA News

Sounders goalkeeper Stefan Frei driven off by ambulance after head collides with opponents knee

Bellingham, WASports

Seattle Sounders goalkeeper Stefan Frei was taken to the hospital for evaluation after suffering head and neck injuries during a match against the Columbus Crew on July 6. Coach Brian Schmetzer reported that Frei remained alert and responsive after the collision with an opponent's knee. The incident occurred in stoppage time, leading to both coaches requesting that the referee end the match for safety reasons. Fans at Lumen Field chanted Frei's name in support as he was stretchered off the field. At 39 years old, Frei has been a key player for the Sounders since 2014, contributing to their MLS Cup victories in 2016 and 2019.

He achieved his 1,000th regular-season save during the match, making him only the second goalkeeper in MLS history to reach this milestone with a single team. Schmetzer expressed gratitude toward Crew coach Wilfried Nancy for agreeing to stop the match, emphasizing the importance of player safety. Frei's condition remains a concern, but initial reports indicate no major injuries.

Related Articles

Bellingham, WASports

Seahawks George Holani turns the Steelers blunder on a kickoff into a TD as Seattle wins 31-17

Seattle Seahawks' George Holani scored the first touchdown of his NFL career after recovering a kickoff blunder by Steelers' Kaleb Johnson, leading to a 31-17 victory on September 14. The Seahawks capitalized on Pittsburgh's mistakes, outgaining them 395 yards to 267. Holani's heads-up play put Seattle ahead 24-14, securing their first win of the season.

Bellingham, WALocal News

Work at Padden Creek fish passage project could extend into overnight hours

Bellingham contractors seek approval to extend work hours on the Padden Creek fish passage project into overnight hours to avoid significant delays. Currently limited to 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. shifts, Faber Construction aims to complete essential in-water tasks before the state's September 30 deadline. The City Council will review the noise ordinance request on Monday.

Bellingham, WALocal News

Environmental groups call on Whatcom County to take a closer look at Ferndale energy facility

Environmental organizations urge Whatcom County to scrutinize operations at the AltaGas Ferndale Terminal, which seeks permits for new projects. Friends of the San Juans advocates for a full Environmental Impact Statement, citing risks from increased vessel traffic in the Salish Sea. Public comments on the projects are due by September 17.