Troy Perkins has quietly built up a very solid career as a goalkeeper in Major League Soccer.
He’s not one for stats or awards; his focus has always been winning games, so it’s no surprise that when asked about the prestigious milestone he reached last weekend, he had no idea what was being talked about.
“I hit a milestone?” he asked with an inquisitive look
Well, the numbers he hit are pretty significant.
Perkins is now in the top 10 in MLS history following his team’s 1-0 win against the New York Red Bulls last weekend in games played and started (163), in minutes played (14,467), in saves (550) and tied for 10th place all-time in shutouts with 42.
“Wow, that’s pretty good,” he said surprised to hear the news. “I don’t really keep track of numbers. To me stats don’t mean a lot. It’s what I do on a daily basis and at the end of it, I want to hold up a trophy and that’s when I can say, hey, look at this.”
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What makes this milestone even more impressive is that Perkins is just 31 and he spent almost three seasons away from MLS, playing in Norway for Valarenga. He credits fitness and preparedness for his success over the years.
“I prepare hard in the offseason. I can come and get to do ball work right away when camp opens. It’s also important now to take care of your body. You can’t just come here and push through things every day. You need to listen to your body as you get older.”
He also understands the importance of down time; refreshing body and mind or spending time with family has become just as important as seeing shots in practice.
And if you’ve been to one of the two home games this season at Olympic Stadium, you may have noticed that Perkins brings his son on to the pitch at the end of the game.
“My experience has helped me get to a point from where I had to see 200 shots at practice to 50 shots. Now, going home and spending time with family or having some quite reflection time will do just as much for you mentally as seeing a ton of balls at practice.”
Whatever his philosophy, it seems to be working as Perkins has been one of the best keepers in MLS since he was acquired by the Impact last season in a trade with Portland.
In 2013, he is 4-0-0, has allowed just two goals (1 PK) and has two shutouts, placing him near or at the top of the league in each category.
If he continues to show this season the consistency he's had throughout his career to reach the milestone, then he may help the Impact as a club reach some milestones of its own.
