On Sunday, head coach Sigi Schmid will become the only coach in MLS history to reach 500 regular season matches.
Schmid began his coaching career in 1999 with the LA Galaxy and since then has managed Columbus Crew SC and now the Seattle Sounders, his longest tenure of the three clubs.
When asked about the milestone on Thursday, Schmid wasted no time in attributing his longevity to his players.
“I’ve had a lot of great players; that’s what allows you to stay out here and keep coaching,” said Schmid. “You’ve got players who work for you and commit themselves to the effort of the team and I’ve been very blessed having coached a lot of great players.”
Schmid has won five U.S. Open Cups, three Supporters’ Shields, two MLS Cups and has maintained a .500-plus record throughout his illustrious career. Including postseason, he will hit 550 games on Sunday against the New York Red Bulls and, according to Schmid, he has no plans to leave the game any time soon.
“They say that when you retire you should do what you enjoy and what I enjoy is coaching,” he said. “So the way I look at it is I’m in retirement right now; I’m doing what I really enjoy.”
