A few weeks ago Stefan Frei swore an oath to become an American citizen. Tuesday’s match against the Colorado Rapids was Frei’s first time hearing his own National anthem on the Fourth of July, prior to a match.
For the Seattle Sounders keeper it was something special. After Thursday’s practice Frei told Sounder at Heart, “Ever since I’ve finally become citizen — it’s unique in North American sports you play the anthem before every game — it carries some weight, you know? It’s not just a procession that comes before the game and finally we can enjoy the game for fans.