New York Red Bulls Defender Mike Petke To Retire At End Of Season

Red Bulls defender Mike Petke has decided to retire at the end of the 2010 MLS season.

Sep 1, 2010 4:35:00 PM

By Subhankar Mondal

Mike Petke, New York Red Bulls; Freddie Ljungberg, Seattle Sounders FC; MLS (Troy Zielonka, Goal.com)

New York Red Bulls have revealed that veteran defender Mike Petke will retire at the end of the season.

Petke has played in the American top flight for 13 years and has featured in more than 300 MLS games, spending a total of seven years with Red Bulls in two different stints. He confirmed his retirement on the club's official website.

“After many months of contemplation, I know that this is the best choice for me and my family,” said the 34-year-old. “When I first started playing in MLS, I could have not imagined the type of career I was so fortunate to experience over these past 13 years.

"I am indebted to my family, current and former team-mates and coaches and the fans for their support and encouragement. I am at peace with my decision and blessed that I am able to end my career in a place where I truly call home.”

Red Bulls' sporting director and general manager Erik Soler enthused, “Mike is a consummate professional and has represented our club with heart and dignity. It is evident during my short time here why he is one of the team’s most popular players all-time.

"His ability, work ethic and leadership will be sorely missed, but we want to wish him the best of luck in this exciting new chapter of his life.”

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