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Sounders To Face UW In Final Exhibition Weekend

April 11, 2008 - USL First Division (USL-1)
Seattle Sounders News Release


The Sounders final weekend of exhibition matches features the University of Washington, Saturday, at French Field in Kent, and the Puget Sound Soccer Academy, Sunday, at Whatcom CC in Bellingham. Match times are 4:15 in Kent and 5:00 in Bellingham.

In their fourth week of training ahead of next Saturday's regular season opener in Charleston, the Sounders have enjoyed a relatively light week.

Monday involved a short training session comprised of mostly possession drills that made time for everyone to watch the naming of Seattle's new MLS club, Seattle Sounders FC. Tuesday, after four weeks of practice and exhibition fixtures, the players were given a much deserved day off.

With all of the excitement surrounding Monday's naming, the team hasn't been distracted and are more resolved then ever to finish their last season in the USL with another championship. "Sounders are a proud tradition and I love the blend of old and new for the MLS entity", says Coach Brian Schmetzer, "but the USL Sounders have one more year of existence and the staff and players are aware of the responsibilities that come with being the 2007 champions."

In first team news, Kevin Sakuda and Craig Tomlinson sat out Wednesday's training with sore knees but will be available for the weekend matches. Youssouf Kante returned home to Paris for the week to finalize his visa and should return to training early next week.

Not returning to this year's club will be Jake Besagno, Gabe Sturm, Santa Maria Rivera, and Nate Boyden. All were veterans from the 2007 championship and Gabe Sturm played on the 2005 championship side. "These players meant a lot to the Sounders", said Schmetzer, "We wish them well in their future endeavors."

The Sounders home opener is May 10th at Qwest Field against arch-rival, Portland Timbers. Go to www.seattlesounders.net for tickets. Don't forget to put down your season ticket deposit for Seattle's newly named MLS club, Seattle Sounders FC. Call Gary Boyle at 206-381-7908 to put down your deposit today.

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