Official report on mlssoccer.com
The American soccer community was left stunned on Tuesday by the news of the passing of former MLS player and FC Dallas broadcaster Bobby Rhine.
A 10-year veteran of MLS between 1999 and 2008 and a fixture of the Dallas soccer scene, Rhine passed away on Monday night at the age of 35.
"Bobby Rhine's sudden passing is a true loss," MLS Commissioner Don Garber said. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Rhine family and FC Dallas organization. Bobby was a very special person whose love of the game and upbeat personality were infectious. He will be missed by the entire MLS family."
"The FC Dallas family is shocked and saddened by the passing of Bobby Rhine," said Clark Hunt, chairman of Hunt Sports Group, owners of FC Dallas. "From the early days at the Cotton Bowl with the Dallas Burn, through the transition to FC Dallas and Pizza Hut Park, Bobby was one of the most respected and beloved figures in club history."
Dallas head coach Schellas Hyndman added: "I had the pleasure of coaching him during his time as a player and Bobby always gave his all to FC Dallas. He brought a daily smile and an unmatched passion and love for the club and his teammates."
FC Dallas are currently finalizing plans to pay tribute to Rhine this season with details of a memorial service yet to be released.
