Seattle Sounders FC has announced that Sigi Schmid has signed a contract extension that runs through the 2015 MLS season. From the official press release:
"From the moment we hired Sigi I knew it was the right decision, and that he was the right man for this particular club," said Adrian Hanauer, Owner and General Manager. "I feel that even more strongly today.
"Beyond the victories and the trophies won, Sigi possesses a strong, positive character and he has represented himself and this club with tremendous class and professionalism," added Hanauer. "Sigi is the right coach to lead us to more successes and more championships."
It is worth noting that the press release contains some interesting language, emphasis added:
Seattle Sounders FC has signed head coach Sigi Schmid to a contract extension which could keep him with the club through the 2015 Major League Soccer season.
Still, thinking that's anything significant is likely reading far too much into things. Sigi is of an age where it's reasonable that this could be his final coaching contract and a great deal can happen both personally and professionally in four years.What's clear is that the Sounders are pleased with the team's performance and progression under Schmid and that the coach appears to be quite happy in Seattle.
Schmid has been at times a polarizing figure amongst Sounders fans, but the performance of the team in very difficult circumstances this year has proven his abilities to many former detractors. What's more, it's difficult to argue with the results. In just over two seasons, the Sounders have brought home consecutive US Open Cups (and advanced to the semifinals of the competition once again this season,) made two playoff appearances, qualified for the group stage of the Concacaf Champions League and look poised to at the very least make a run at the Supporters Shield. Schmid's contract was set to expire at the end of the season and that the club was willing to extend it at this point in time illustrates their happiness with the way things are progressing.