The Bombers' O-line and chapel program will have a large void in the upcoming 2019 season. 

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers centre had been with the team since they drafted him in 2014. 

“After much prayer and consideration, I have decided to end my football career," Goossen said. 

"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."

Goossen had been very active in the Bombers' chapel program over the years. He had taken on a leadership role in the program along with teammates Chris Randle, Drake Nevis, and Kevin Fogg.

Goossen also volunteers with the youth ministry of his church, Riverwood Church Community.

Bombers General Manager Kyle Walters says "From the moment we drafted him in 2014, Matthias has shown tremendous professionalism both on and off the field. His work in the community is something we are very proud of, and he represented the Blue Bombers the right way."

Walters said that Goossen had let the team know of his decision "quite some time ago" and so the team has been operating with that understanding.

"He is a fantastic young man, and we wish him all the best moving forward," Walters said.