Sounders FC pay visit to Joint Base Lewis-McChord

JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. -- What might’ve looked like a normal Sounders training session at first glance – hardly was.

Thanks to a little friendly competition at JBLM.

It was just a small part of a special visit for both sides – the team – and the military personnel and families they met.

“It was a perfect opportunity to experience something out of our normal circumstances and get piece of mind from people who literally lay it on the line for their country,” Sounders defender Brad Evans said.

“Without our families, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do in the military – so having our family out here today to share a little bit of that time means a lot,” said Master Sgt. Todd Wivell.

It was an inside look for the team – to witness the operations, facilities – and of course, the artillery – and most importantly, a chance to learn about the true meaning of teamwork.

“For us it could be a win or a loss, which is really important for us, but when you come out here and you realize that there’s life at stake,” Sounders goalkeeper Stefan Frei said.

And in the end, a traditional show of respect: The presentation of a jersey.

Said Evans: “It brought a lot of respect, a lot of eye opening moments today to hear the message that we’re trying to preach in the locker room translates into the real world as well.”