When the Seattle Sounders announced that they were declining several players’ options earlier this month, mouths dropped from fans everywhere, especially when it came to long-time players like Leo Gonzalez, who have been with Rave Green since the start. The first class of free agents in league history has subsequently begun, and one of the players whose options were not picked up was Chad Barrett, who has some exciting news to share with his fans.

As a free agent, Barrett signed up to play for the San Jose Earthquakes next season. The forward just signed a deal with the team on Tuesday and says he is thrilled about the prospect. Barrett says that he is “very happy to be continuing my career with San Jose. I’m excited to join Dominic Kinnear and John Doyle and the great group of guys they have over there and am looking forward to helping the team any way I can.”

It is always heartening to hear a former player looking forward so positively toward changes in his career. Earlier in the month, Barrett made it clear that if it was up to him, he would not be leaving the team, letting his fans know that the decision to leave Seattle in the first place was not his own. He also thanked the fans for their cry of support over losing the player, saying that he was overwhelmed by their love and ensuring them all that the feeling was mutual.

Barrett, whose career stats include 56 goals, including five game winners for Seattle, and 30 assists, still has plenty to bring to the table. He has previously played for New England Revolution, LA Galaxy, Toronto FC and Chicago Fire, so he also is no stranger to moving in between teams. In fact, it is something he has had to deal with enough as a veteran player that it should be no surprise if he does well with the Earthquakes. He has been playing the game for 11 years and knows the ropes.

Fans of Barrett should follow him on Twitter to keep up with his latest news and updates. On Christmas he joked with fans, “Merry Xmas everyone! I hope your presents are big and your bellies get fat.” Hopefully the Earthquakes contract ends up being a big present for you, Chad. You will be missed in Seattle and we all wish you good luck.

Photo courtesy of Wikipedia