Originally published December 12, 2008 at 2:30 PM | Page modified December 12, 2008 at 4:25 PM

Sounders did not tamper, says MLS

Seattle Sounders FC did not commit tampering in its pursuit of former Columbus Crew coach Sigi Schmid, Major League Soccer announced in a statement released today.

By José Miguel Romero

Seattle Times staff reporter

Sounders Blog

Seattle Sounders FC did not commit tampering in its pursuit of former Columbus Crew coach Sigi Schmid, Major League Soccer announced in a statement released today.

The league found no evidence of tampering by the club. Seattle was charged with the offense by the Crew through the league, a claim that delayed Sounders FC's contract talks with Schmid.

The matter of Schmid's reported noncompete clause in his previous contract with Columbus, which ended at the end of last month, has also been resolved. Seattle can resume negotiations with Schmid, a leading candidate, after sending allocation money and additional cash to the Crew. Schmid is released from any obligation he had in his Crew contract.

"We believe Sigi is the best coach in Major League Soccer and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to

pursue contract negotiations with him," said Adrian Hanauer, general manager of Sounders FC. "There were never any improprieties and the league's statement confirms this. There was some language in his contract that was ambiguous, but rather than going through a long, drawn-out process we came to an agreement."

Also, forward Nate Jaqua, one of the team's 10 expansion draft picks, spent Friday in town for a visit. Jaqua, who is already under contract, met with Sounders FC executives and watched Seahawks practice at Renton headquarters.

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