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It’s always bittersweet to hear news of a beloved player riding into the sunset.
Following an 11 year career in Major League Soccer with D.C. United, the Philadelphia Union and LA Galaxy, midfielder Chris Pontius announced his retirement this morning on social media. The 32-year old affectionately nicknamed “Party Boy” was the 7th overall selection in the 2009 MLS SuperDraft after starring at UC Santa Barbara and tallied 51 goals and 38 assists in 259 total appearances.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to have played the sport I love during the last 11 years,” Pontius echoed in a statement. “The game has given so much to me and as I look back on my time in Major League Soccer, I am filled with pride in not only what I accomplished during my career, but also for being a part of the growth of this league from when I joined it in 2009.
As I start this next chapter of my career, I want to say thank you all my teammates, coaches and the fans that I have met along the way. Your love, support and dedication have impacted me immeasurably and I will always be thankful. In addition to everything on the field, the friendships I have made in will last a lifetime. I want to also thank my wife, Alex, for being my companion and constantly supporting me in this journey.”