kicked while down

In the 77th minute of Greensboro FC's March 20th game against FCNT Greensboro midfielder Porter Stookey's career came to an abrupt end. Stookey had the ball, made a move past FCNT defender Lamario Taylor, and was taken down by the beaten defender Taylor. As soon as the tackle was made, it was clear Stookey was never going to play football again. The medical team rushed to the field to stabalize Stookey's left leg, and try to calm the 29 year old middie. Stookey suffered a dislocated kneecap, tearing his ACL, PCL, and MCL, literally snapping his leg laterally. He was immediately taken to the hospital for surgery. Stookey had 33 goals in just over 4 years playing for Greensboro. Greensboro plans to retire his number 22 jersey, as well as honor him at tonights home game vs. Gaming West Virginia. In the words of Greensboro FC Owner/Coach/GM Chris Fields "Stookey was a a great player, and played a priceles roll in turning Greensboro FC from a small startup franchise into a top 8 team. More importantly, Stookey was a model citizen, and dedicated himself to making a difference in the community. It has been an honor to Coach him for the last 4 years. He will always be a part of Greensboro FC." Teammate Aaronjames Sequeba said "Stookey has been a role model and mentor to me for the last 4 years, and it has been an honor to share the pitch with him."