Sounders FC employee tests positive for COVID-19

SEATTLE — The Seattle Sounders FC announced Sunday afternoon that one of its support staff members has tested positive for COVID-19.

The employee is currently in isolation.

The employee worked during the match against Columbus Crew SC at CenturyLink Field but did not have access to the general public, the club said. Club officials said the person only had access to the team-controlled areas during the game.

The club said the person became ill four days after the match.

The person also was not present for Sounders FC operations or soccer activities at any time between the match and when he or she tested positive.

The club also stated, “Based upon current guidance from club medical staff, infectious disease specialists and public health authorities, this case does not present a risk to the public, the visiting team or Sounders FC.”

“Over this current weekend, we were informed of a confirmed case of COVID-19 that directly impacted our club,” said Sounders FC general manager & President of Soccer Garth Lagerwey. “In a situation like this, our aim is to provide as much information as possible in order to properly inform the public. We remain in constant communication with a number of regional and national health authorities, and based on the information we collectively have at this time, there is not felt to be a risk to any fans that attended our March 7 match at CenturyLink Field. The individual that tested positive for COVID-19 did not have access to the public on matchday, and fortunately, we have no other confirmed cases within the club at this time. Alongside public health authorities, we are actively monitoring this situation and should new details emerge, we will continue proactively communicating with our community. These are trying times, and this is a good reminder for all of us to remain vigilant and to take care of one another. I’m also pleased to relay this impacted individual is recovering and is in good spirits.”

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