New York Red Bulls defender Steve Jolley announced his retirement from professional soccer today after 10 seasons. Without question one of the most popular players to ever play for New York, Jolley appeared in 120 matches for the team, which ranks third all time in club history. Originally acquired by the MetroStars in 2000 from Los Angeles in exchange for a second round pick, he played four seasons with the club before being traded to the Dallas Burn in 2004. Jolley then rejoined New York prior to the 2006 season and appeared in 16 games last year. In a letter authored by Jolley himself, he wrote:

"For the last ten years in Los Angeles, Dallas, and New York, I have lived a blessed life where everyday I've been able to perform my life's passion. Soccer has been, and will always be, dear to me for the life lessons it has taught me. I've lived my professional life supported by a family who encouraged and challenged me to become the best person I could be. I've had coaches who reinforced in me the desire to achieve my goals both on and off the field. And I have a wife who awes me with her selflessness and grace.

This off-season has been an exciting one for me. Within the last month I have been accepted to Columbia University for graduate school. I have also accepted an offer to join Merrill Lynch in their Global Private Client division here in New York City. The lines of player, confidante, marketer, union leader and coach have always been blurred for me since the day I entered professional sports. I have tried to take an objective perspective of my life on and off the field. With recent opportunities, I know now it's time to leave the field and take the appropriate steps to continue my journey. I am eager and excited to round out my education, by expanding my knowledge of the business and financial world, and develop the skills necessary to stand up and thrive in a new arena.

Thank you fans, teammates, coaches, owners, medical staffs, front office and MLS staffs, reporters, and volunteers for giving me a decade I will never forget. I am indebted to you for your care and generosity. I am retiring from Major League Soccer, but not from the game I started playing at the age of three. I will continue to play and coach the sport that I love until I am old and gray. I will never say goodbye, just see you later."