Seattle Sounders News Release - www.seattlesounders.net

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

SEATTLE, WA -- The Seattle Sounders have re-signed Chris Eylander, the starting goalkeeper from the 2007 USL First Division championship team. Eylander will be in his third year with the club.

“Chris had a phenomenal 2007 season which culminated with his dominance in the post-season,” said Sounders head coach Brian Schmetzer. “We are thrilled to have him back this year and will look for him to continue to grow as a goalkeeper.”

Eylander, 23, a local product from Auburn Riverside High School and the University of Washington, may have had his best year as a professional last year. He led the USL-1 with 109 saves and 14 wins. Eylander’s 13 shutouts was one away from the league lead; his 0.823 goals against average ranked third.

Standing 6-foot-1, Eylander was drafted by the Sounders in 2006 after a decorated career with the Huskies. Eylander’s 18 shutouts rank third in school history; he is also fourth in saves (187) and fifth in goals against average (1.11).

In high school, Eylander won the Gatorade State Player of the Year award in 2002 as a senior with the Ravens.

For more about Eylander or ticket information, visit www.seattlesounders.com or call (206) 622-3415.

The Sounders begin preseason against the Vancouver Whitecaps at 7 p.m., March 22, at Starfire Sports Complex in Tukwila. The regular season opener in April 19 in Charleston.