FRISCO, Texas – Kenny Cooper was an unexpected scratch in FC Dallas’ match against the Portland Timbers this past Saturday after flying home to be with his family, but for good reason.
The forward had received a phone call from his wife early Saturday morning with the unfortunate news that his father, former Dallas Tornado goalkeeper Kenny Cooper Sr., had suffered a heart attack.
The Dallas native said it was obviously a major shock for him and his family, but that fortunately, his father his recovering well.
“He had a great report yesterday,” Cooper told MLSsoccer.com after practice on Tuesday. “He had an echocardiogram that showed very limited damage to the heart. I think he’s making good progress. He seems to be on a good path to getting back to good health.”
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FC Dallas head coach Schellas Hyndman said he immediately told his star striker to go home and be with his family and not to worry about the game. Cooper said the support from the organization as a whole – the Hunt family, who own the team, were the first people to send flowers to the hospital – has deeply touched him and his family.
“Oh my gosh, it’s..." Cooper said, pausing. "Schellas allowing me to be with my family, the messages I’ve received from the other coaches, teammates, [FCD technical director] Fernando Clavijo has e-mailed every day asking about my father. It’s such a testament to the good people that are here at this club and it makes me so proud to be a part of this club.
“I think my dad and my family have been overwhelmed by all the messages, all the love, the support and people’s prayers," Cooper added. "It’s really been incredible. I wish everyone that has reached out could know how much it means to my dad, my family and myself. My mom started crying when I was telling her.
"We’ve just received so much love and we’re very grateful for all of the support that’s been given to us.”
