The Seattle Sounders’ Colombian striker Fredy Montero has spent much of the offseason helping relief efforts in his hometown of Campo de la Cruz, which was hit by devastatingflooding and mudslides late last year. While visiting family and friends he saw the things he remembered about his community — the church, the park, the school — except they were all under water.
“It was bad,” said the 23-year-old who scored 22 goals and 17 assists in his first two MLS season. “I almost cried, but I had to be strong because I was with my family and I didn’t wantthem to see how bad I was feeling … it was really sad. I never thought I’d need a boat to go down the streets that I grew up playing.”
Montero has contributed his ownmoney toward helping the relief effort, and, through Mercy Corps, the Sounders organization and the supporters of Emerald CitySupporters, Gorilla FC and North End Faithful joined to raise over $28,000 to help flood relief in Campo de la Cruz. That total was matched by the European Commission.
“When youscore a goal, the fans are happy,” Montero said. “When you need to help other people in another country, it’s amazing to get that response. It’s very special. I’m so proud toplay in Seattle for the Sounders.”