Matthias Goossen (61) of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers during the pre-season game at TD Place in Ottawa, ON on Monday, June 13, 2016. (JOHANY JUTRAS / CFL)
Winnipeg Blue Bombers centre Matthias Goossen has announced his retirement from professional football.
“After much prayer and consideration, I have decided to end my football career,” Goossen said in a statement released by the football club.
“Firstly, I want to thank my family, and especially my wife, for being a constant source of support over the course of my football career. I also want to thank my teammates who made my five years of playing professional football a true blessing, and am especially thankful for the brotherhood of offensive linemen who made it a privilege every day to come into work. I want to thank Coach (Mike) O’shea and coach Marty Costello for being two of the best coaches I have ever had.”
Goossen was selected by Winnipeg in the first round, second overall, in the 2014 CFL Draft. He dressed for 87 career regular season games, making 64 starts. He also started all four playoff games during his time with Winnipeg.
“The Blue Bombers organization has been great to me over these past 5 years, and I am so grateful to have played for a team that does so much for its players and community. Lastly, I want to thank the people of Winnipeg. I have met so many great people here and can say that this city has felt like home over my 5 seasons wearing the blue and gold.”
General Manager Kyle Walters said Goossen informed the team of his decision “quite some time ago.”
As far as our roster is concerned… we have been working accordingly,” Walters said. “He is a fantastic young man, and we wish him all the best moving forward.”
