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Updated with press release from today. This is now official. Statements from Sigi and Boss.
Seattle Sounders FC goalkeeper Terry Boss suffered a concussion against Manchester United in the infamous friendly and a few weeks later another while suiting up for the Puerto Rico National Team. Boss announced over Facebook today that the repeated concussions forced the backup keeper into retirement under the advice of his doctors.
Terry Boss After repeat concussions, and many appointments with concussion specialist, the doctors have told me that I have to retire. Although its sad news, it's difficult not to also feel very blessed. By Gods grace I have been fortunate to play the sport I love for a living for the last eight years. Ive met so many great people along the way, and i get to end my career with one of the best organizations in the world and the best fans anywhere. A big thank you to everybody who made my time in Seattle so special and to everybody else who helped me along the way!
Boss' eight year career included two MLS teams and several stops in the lower leagues, with most appearances coming for the Charlotte Eagles. He also ends his career with the Puerto Rican National Team. After his second concussion the doctors, team and Boss decided it was best to shut him down for the remainder of the year. Sadly, that wasn't enough.
Ideally, this news can help young players learn the importance of telling someone about the concussion immediately. Do not play through brain damage, as the rigors of the game can lead to even further problems. As always when concussion issues in sports Think Taylor Twellman.
Goalkeeper Terry Boss Retires
RENTON, WASH. - Terry Boss, a five-year MLS veteran and the backup goalkeeper for Sounders FC for the past three seasons, has announced his retirement, Seattle Sounders FC announced today,
"We are going to miss Terry," said Sounders FC head coach Sigi Schmid. "He was a valuable member of the Sounders and it is unfortunate his career has come to a close. We wish him well and good health in his future."
"It has been a great honor and privilege to play for Sounders FC," said Boss. "This has obviously been difficult, but the support I have received from my family, friends, teammates, coaches, front office and fans has been tremendous. From the top down this team has always felt like a family, and needless to say I will never forget the time I spent in Seattle."
Boss, 30, suffered a series of concussions in the 2011 season and was placed on the club's Disabled List on September 9. In his four starts during the 2011 season, Boss helped Seattle advance to the semifinals of the Lamar Hunt U.S Open Cup and earned victories in the first two matches of the CONCACAF Champions League Group Stage, including a historic shutout win in Mexico over reigning champions CF Monterrey.
"I don't know what the future holds, but I do know that I will proudly join the greatest fans in the world by supporting and wishing nothing but the best for the entire Sounders FC family," said Boss.
Boss, an Oregon native, joined Sounders FC on June 26, 2009 after playing for the New York Red Bulls from 2008-09. In his three seasons with Seattle, Boss started eight of nine appearances across all competitions and posted three shutouts. His only MLS appearance was 45 minutes against FC Dallas on April 22, 2010.
Prior to joining Sounders FC, Boss was named USL-2 Goalkeeper of the Year in 2008 while with Charlotte. He also earned eight caps with the Puerto Rico National Team.