“S. Frei — Seattle’s #24: The Goalkeeper Who Stole Goals, Fans, and the Coach’s Snacks!”
You know the name because you’ve seen the saves. Stefan Frei, the goalkeeper for Seattle Sounders FC, wears the number 24 jersey and brings a calm presence that really sets the tone for his game.
He came out of the University of California, Berkeley, and built his career on consistency, quick reflexes, and leadership from the back line. You probably recognize him as the goalkeeper who’s shaped Seattle’s modern era with steady hands and big-game moments.
If you look at Frei’s journey, you’ll find more than just a long career. He started with Toronto FC, then moved to Seattle in 2014, and became one of the most trusted keepers in Major League Soccer.
His career includes MLS Cup titles, some wild playoff moments, and a reputation for saves that completely change matches.
Let’s get a closer look at how Frei’s career developed, what his biggest moments have meant for the Sounders, and how his influence stretches beyond the pitch.
Whether it’s his clean sheets, his leadership when the stakes are high, or the way he’s helped set MLS records, his story shows why he’s still such a cornerstone for Seattle.
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Profile of S. Frei: Seattle Sounders FC Goalkeeper #24
You probably know Stefan Frei as the steady hand in goal for Seattle Sounders FC—a player defined by consistency, durability, and leadership.
His path from Switzerland to Major League Soccer shows both personal resilience and a real dedication to his craft.
Personal Background and Early Life
Stefan Frei was born on April 20, 1986, in Altstätten, Switzerland.
His European roots show up in the discipline and technical foundation he brought to the game.
As a teenager, Frei balanced academics and soccer, and he showed early on that he could handle pressure.
His family cared a lot about education, which eventually led him to opportunities in the United States.
Frei attended De La Salle High School in Concord, California.
He quickly rose as one of the region’s top young goalkeepers, and his performances there opened the door to college soccer.
At the University of California, Berkeley, he became one of the best collegiate goalkeepers in the country.
His time with the Golden Bears really launched his pro career.
Jersey Number and Position
You’ll spot Frei by his jersey number 24, which he’s worn throughout his long run with Seattle Sounders FC.
For a goalkeeper, the number isn’t as iconic as a striker’s 9 or a playmaker’s 10, but Frei has made it his own.
As a keeper, his job goes way beyond just blocking shots.
He organizes the back line, manages the tempo, and often starts the attack with his distribution.
His leadership in this role earned him the captain’s armband with the Sounders, which is pretty rare for a goalkeeper in Major League Soccer.
That shows just how much his teammates and coaches trust him.
When you watch Frei, you see a player who treats every save like it’s no big deal, even in the most tense moments.
That calmness really defines both his position and his number.
Move to the United States
Frei’s move to the United States as a teenager changed both his career and his life.
His family relocated for better opportunities, and you can trace his development back to that moment.
At De La Salle High School, he had to adjust to a new culture while standing out on the field.
He adapted quickly and earned recognition that led him to UC Berkeley.
His college career with the Golden Bears included several NCAA Tournament appearances.
His performances there caught the eye of Major League Soccer scouts.
He joined MLS with Toronto FC in 2009, then established himself as a key player with Seattle Sounders FC starting in 2014.
That jump from Europe to North America gave him the foundation to last more than a decade in the league.
Physical Attributes and Playing Style
At 191 cm (6’3”) and 89 kg (196 lbs), Frei has the size you’d expect from a top goalkeeper.
His frame helps him dominate in the air and cover his angles.
But you also notice his agility.
Frei blends reach with quick reflexes, which is why he’s made some of the most memorable saves in Sounders history.
His style is all about positioning and anticipation, not just diving all over the place.
He reads the game, cuts off crosses, and stays balanced to make those high-percentage saves.
Take a look at his recent numbers—they speak for themselves:
| Season | MLS Starts | Clean Sheets | Goals Against Avg | Save % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 27 | 8 | 1.20 | 69.1% |
| 2023 | 33 | 14 | 0.88 | 77.3% |
| 2024 | 29 | 11 | 0.99 | 74.0% |
These stats show Frei has stayed among the league’s most reliable keepers, using both his physical tools and his experience to anchor Seattle’s defense.
Club Career Overview
You can break Stefan Frei’s career into two big chapters: his early years with Toronto FC and his long, decorated run with Seattle Sounders FC.
Injuries shaped his path, but his consistency and longevity turned him into one of the most reliable goalkeepers in MLS history.
Toronto FC Years
Toronto FC drafted Frei in the first round of the 2009 MLS SuperDraft after his college days at Berkeley.
He quickly earned the starting role as a rookie.
His strong reflexes and calm distribution made him one of the league’s most promising young keepers.
But then injuries hit.
In 2012, Frei broke his fibula and suffered ligament damage, which cost him the whole season.
The next year, he broke his nose and had to fight his way back again.
By then, he’d lost his starting spot and struggled to find his old form.
Toronto had once leaned on him as a consistent starter, but by the end of 2013, Frei was no longer in their plans.
His exit was coming, and that set up the biggest move of his career.
Transfer to Seattle Sounders FC
In December 2013, Frei landed with Seattle Sounders FC through a trade that seemed minor at the time.
But it turned out to be one of the best moves in MLS history.
Seattle needed a reliable keeper, and Frei showed up ready to prove himself after his struggles in Toronto.
The Sounders coaching staff, especially Tom Dutra, believed he could bounce back.
That trust really mattered.
Frei quickly grabbed the starting role in 2014 and played every minute of the regular season.
His durability and professionalism stood out in a club already loaded with talent.
Seattle’s system fit him well.
He had strong defenders in front and a coaching staff committed to stability.
That gave him the confidence to settle in, and he built consistency from there.
That foundation carried him through more than a decade in Rave Green.
Key Matches and Milestones
When you think about Frei’s career, one match stands out: the 2016 MLS Cup Final against Toronto FC.
His extra-time save on Jozy Altidore—people still talk about it—helped Seattle win its first MLS Cup.
Some folks even compare that stop to legendary saves by Nick Rimando or Kevin Hartman.
Frei also hit some big personal milestones.
By 2024, he’d played over 400 matches for Seattle in all competitions.
He showed up in playoff games, U.S. Open Cup runs, and CONCACAF Champions League campaigns, always making a difference when it counted.
Even as he got older, he kept delivering in big moments.
Maybe it was a semifinal save against LAFC or just his leadership in the locker room—Frei stayed at the center of Seattle’s success.
Career Statistics and Records
Frei’s numbers really tell the story.
He ranks among the top MLS goalkeepers in wins, saves, and shutouts.
For Seattle, he’s second all-time in several categories, including clean sheets.
Selected Career Stats (MLS Regular Season)
| Category | Total (as of 2025) |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 400+ |
| Wins | 130+ |
| Saves | 1,000+ |
| Shutouts | 90+ |
| Minutes Played | 30,000+ |
You see a goalkeeper who didn’t just hang on—he thrived.
Not many players in MLS history can match his mix of durability and impact.
His career is all about resilience, professionalism, and somehow staying relevant through all kinds of changes in the league.
Achievements and Honors
You see the full scope of Stefan Frei’s career in the trophies, awards, and recognition he’s earned.
His record shows up in the biggest matches, with standout individual performances and a reputation as one of the league’s most reliable keepers.
MLS Cup Victories
Most people remember Frei for his role in Seattle’s MLS Cup wins.
He helped the Sounders lift the MLS Cup in 2016 and again in 2019, both times anchoring a defense that thrived under pressure.
In 2016, his fingertip save in extra time against Toronto FC became one of the league’s defining moments.
Seattle’s 2019 title, won at home in front of nearly 70,000 fans, only made Frei’s place in club history even more solid.
His leadership and command of the penalty area gave the Sounders the stability they needed to get through the postseason and win another championship.
Frei’s knack for stepping up in high-stakes matches has made him one of the most trusted players in MLS Cup history.
He delivers when the season is on the line, and that’s been central to Seattle’s success.
MLS Cup MVP and Playoff Performances
In the 2016 MLS Cup Final, Frei picked up the MLS Cup MVP award after shutting out Toronto FC and making that iconic save on Jozy Altidore.
That performance is still one of the most celebrated by a goalkeeper in league history.
He’s also been a rock in the postseason.
Frei ranks No. 1 in MLS history for playoff clean sheets, which says a lot about his ability to raise his game when it matters most.
His playoff record isn’t just about blocking shots—it’s about keeping his back line organized and calm in tense moments.
Across several playoff runs, Frei has been the difference between going home and moving on.
His postseason legacy is built on timely saves, steady distribution, and the trust his teammates put in him when the margins are razor thin.
Postseason Stats (MLS Cup Playoffs)
| Category | Total | MLS Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Clean Sheets | 12+ | 1st |
| Appearances | 30+ | Top 5 |
| MLS Cup MVP Awards | 1 | — |
CONCACAF Champions League Success
You really can’t talk about Frei without diving into the 2022 CONCACAF Champions League. Seattle finally broke through as the first MLS team to win the modern version of this tournament, and Frei was right at the heart of it.
He picked up both CCL Player of the Tournament and Goalkeeper of the Tournament honors, thanks to a run of incredible performances.
In the final against Pumas UNAM, Frei kept his cool under pressure. He secured clean sheets that let Seattle dictate the series.
He owned his box and dealt with aerial threats, which definitely gave the Sounders a real advantage.
That win changed how people saw Frei, moving his reputation beyond just MLS circles. Seattle landed a spot in the FIFA Club World Cup because of it, and Frei’s leadership during that campaign still stands out as a career highlight.
MLS All-Star and Individual Awards
Frei’s list of honors stretches far past team trophies. He’s made the MLS All-Star team, picked up the Sounders FC Defensive Player of the Year award more than once, and snagged MLS Save of the Week for some jaw-dropping stops.
In 2022, his play earned him a spot as an Allstate MLS Goalkeeper of the Year finalist. Over more than a decade, he’s stayed one of the league’s most respected keepers.
Frei also took home the Sounders FC Humanitarian of the Year award, which speaks to his off-field impact.
Back before he went pro, Frei played college soccer at UC Berkeley. He even became a finalist for the MAC Hermann Trophy, which goes to the nation’s best college player.
That experience at Cal really set him up for a career built on durability and excellence.
Through all the All-Star appearances, awards, and humanitarian work, Frei’s balanced on-field success with real leadership and community involvement. His honors show both his individual talent and his long-term commitment to the game.
Recent Seasons and Key Moments
You watched Stefan Frei keep turning in steady performances in net, even as he got older. His game blended durability, leadership, and grit, especially during the playoffs and after a tough injury that really tested him.
2023 and 2024 Performances
Through 2023 and 2024, Frei stayed Seattle’s anchor in goal. He played with the same steady hands you expect, making big saves in regular season games and stepping up in tournament matches.
His playoff display against LAFC in November 2024 stands out. He made several key stops in a tight Western Conference semifinal at BMO Stadium.
Frei did more than just stop shots. He kept climbing the all-time MLS shutout list, moving into the top three behind Nick Rimando and Kevin Hartman.
That kind of consistency, along with his command of the box at Lumen Field, gave Seattle a solid foundation.
Selected Stats (2023–2024):
| Season | Appearances | Saves | Save % | Clean Sheets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 28 | 92 | 70.4 | 10 |
| 2024 | 27 | 85 | 69.1 | 9 |
The stats prove he’s still producing, but Frei’s impact goes way beyond numbers. His calm presence helped younger defenders settle in and play with confidence.
Injury Incidents and Recovery
In July 2025, Frei suffered a scary head and neck injury late in a match at Lumen Field. He collided with another player and left the field in an ambulance.
The next day, reports said he was back home resting, but the moment was a reminder of what goalkeepers risk every match.
Frei has dealt with injuries before, but this one felt especially serious. You could see how much his teammates and coach Brian Schmetzer cared, with the team rallying around him during his recovery.
When he returned to training, he showed the same professionalism that’s defined his whole career. Frei’s ability to bounce back, even at 39, just adds to his reputation as one of MLS’s most respected keepers.
Leadership and Captaincy
Frei’s influence stretches beyond the goal. Heading into his 12th season with Seattle, he’s become a core leader in the locker room.
Teammates trust him because he communicates clearly, organizes the defense, and takes responsibility if things go south.
Brian Schmetzer often calls him “trustworthy,” which pretty much sums up how defenders feel with Frei behind them. That trust gives younger players the confidence to step up in big moments.
Frei leads by example in training, pushing himself and his teammates to meet high standards. He often credits longtime goalkeeper coach Tom Dutra for helping him stay consistent.
His background at UC Berkeley also shapes how he mentors younger guys. Frei doesn’t pretend to have all the answers, but he’s always ready to share what he’s learned over nearly two decades in the game.
Seattle gets a captain in all but name.
Influence on Seattle Sounders FC
Every time Seattle takes the field, you see Stefan Frei’s impact. He shapes the team’s defensive identity, strengthens the locker room, and builds connections with the community that reach far beyond the stadium.
Defensive Contributions
Since arriving from Toronto in 2013, Frei has been the backbone of Seattle’s defense. As a former California Golden Bear, he built a reputation for reliability and staying calm when things get tense.
One of his biggest moments came in the 2016 MLS Cup Final. He pulled off what many people still call the greatest save in league history, helping Seattle win its first championship.
That play really showed his knack for delivering when it matters most.
The numbers back it up. Frei has played in over 400 games for the Sounders and sits near the top of the MLS shutouts list.
Key Stats (Seattle Sounders career)
| Category | Total |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 400+ |
| Clean Sheets | 100+ |
| MLS Cups Won | 2 |
| Saves in MLS Cup Finals | 12+ |
Those stats say a lot about the stability he brings to the back line.
Role in Club Culture and Community
Frei’s influence goes way past the pitch. The club named him Sounders FC Humanitarian of the Year for his work with the RAVE Foundation and Washington Youth Soccer.
He uses his platform to support youth programs, focusing on access and equity in sports. That kind of outreach just tightens the bond between the team and the city.
Frei also has a creative side. He shares his artwork with fans and uses it to raise money for charity.
By doing that, he connects with the community in a way that feels real and personal.
When you look at the Sounders’ identity, Frei’s influence is obvious—not just in the results, but in the values the club stands for.
Relationships with Coaches and Teammates
Frei’s relationship with head coach Brian Schmetzer has been a big part of his long run in Seattle. Schmetzer often points to Frei’s leadership and calmness, especially when younger players need steadying during big matches.
Teammates describe him as approachable and supportive. Midfielders and defenders say his clear communication keeps the back line organized.
The trust between Frei and his goalkeeper coaches has mattered too. That trust showed up in moments like the 2016 final, when his preparation and instincts led to the save that won a championship.
You can see how players rally around him. Frei isn’t just the goalkeeper—he’s the leader who sets the tone for the whole squad.
Legacy and Standing in MLS
Stefan Frei’s career stands out for consistency, longevity, and showing up in the big moments. He’s earned his place in MLS history not by chasing awards, but by delivering steady excellence year after year.
Career Shutouts and All-Time Rankings
Frei has built a reputation as one of MLS’s most reliable shot-stoppers. Heading into his 16th season, he’s already passed 110 career clean sheets.
That puts him within striking distance of Kevin Hartman’s record, and only Nick Rimando sits above him.
What really stands out is how many games Frei has played for Seattle since joining in 2014. He hardly ever misses a match, and that durability has let him climb the all-time charts.
Even at 38, he keeps adding to his totals, making his longevity not just impressive, but historic.
MLS Career Clean Sheets (Top 3)
| Goalkeeper | Clean Sheets | Career Span |
|---|---|---|
| Nick Rimando | 154 | 2000–2019 |
| Kevin Hartman | 112 | 1997–2013 |
| Stefan Frei | 110+ | 2009–Present |
With just a few more shutouts, Frei will pass Hartman and become second all-time.
Comparison with Other MLS Goalkeepers
If you line up Frei with Rimando and Hartman, the similarities jump out. All three have durability, leadership, and a knack for big saves under pressure.
Rimando set the bar for reflex stops, while Hartman was known for his consistency at several clubs. Frei brings a bit of both.
Unlike Rimando, Frei hasn’t picked up multiple Goalkeeper of the Year awards. But he does have something neither Rimando nor Hartman managed: recognition as the best player in an international final.
His 2022 Concacaf Champions League performance earned him Player of the Tournament, which is a rare feat for an MLS goalkeeper.
Frei’s career also stands out because he’s anchored a single club for more than a decade. That kind of stability has made him a central part of Seattle’s modern success.
Impact on Major League Soccer
Frei’s impact goes way beyond the numbers, honestly. He’s played a huge part in making the Sounders one of MLS’s most reliable contenders.
That save he made in the 2016 MLS Cup final? People still talk about it. It pretty much shaped Seattle’s reputation as a championship club.
Frei sets the bar for professionalism, too. Younger goalkeepers around the league look up to his preparation and steady presence.
He started at the University of California, Berkeley, and worked his way up to become a veteran in MLS. That journey really shows how sticking with it can pay off.
By signing a contract extension through 2025, Frei made sure his leadership will keep shaping the Sounders. He’s also influencing what people expect from MLS goalkeepers.
His legacy isn’t just about breaking records. It’s about how he’s changed what a goalkeeper can mean to a club.
