Ozzie Alsonso signed a one day contract on February 29, returning to Lumen Field and the Sounders family for an opportunity to retire as a Seattle Sounder. In an emotional press conference filled with tears and stories, Alonso signed the one day ceremonial contract, officially ending his professional soccer career. He will be honored for all he did for the rave green during the Sounders home opener on March 2nd.
Joining the MLS era expansion Sounders in 2009 after a USL stint in Charleston with the Battery, Alonso quickly established himself in the rave green starting line up. Supporters began to refer to him as “Honey Badger” for his midfield play. While with Seattle he would raise four US Open Cups, a Supporter’s Shield, and captain the 2016 MLS Cup winning side. His 339 appearances across all competitions during his decade in rave green set the standard. Although mostly known for his ability to lock down the midfield, he still notched 20 goals.
“It just feels right to retire here a Sounder,” Alonso remarked.
Born in Cuba, he defected to the USA during the 2007 CONCACAF Gold Cup and became a citizen in 2012 while with the Sounders.
“In the history of Sounders soccer, there are certain players who epitomize the ethos of the club – who are stamped with the grit, determination and mindset that our organization stands for,” said Sounders FC Majority Owner Adrian Hanauer. “Ozzie is one of those players. My first experience with him was when he was playing opposite our team, and I knew immediately that he was a player you only wanted to see if he was in your uniform. With Ozzie’s help – both through his on-field skills and off-field character and leadership – Sounders FC saw great success as it began building its MLS legacy. I couldn’t be happier to welcome Ozzie and his family back to Seattle so that we can honor his incredible career.”
His ten year tenure in Seattle would end after the 2018 season. He would extend his career with stops in Minnesota and Atlanta.
His retirement was announced earlier in the MLS offseason, the one day contract offering him the opportunity to retire where he spent the bulk of his career.
Seattle Sounders FC 2024 MLS regular season home opener is Saturday March 2 at 7:30PM against Austin FC.
