After five-and-a-half professional seasons, A.J. Soares has decided to hang up his cleats.
The stalwart defender made six appearances for Danish-side AGF Aarhus this season before suffering a head injury that sidelined him for more than a month. During his time away from the club, Soares sought the advice of medical experts, who warned him of the long-term health risks of a return to action. He ultimately listened, announcing his retirement from the beautiful game on Wednesday.
A University of California graduate, Soares joined the Revolution in 2011 as the club’s first-round SuperDraft pick (6th overall). He contributed immediately, starting 28 matches while earning recognition as the “2011 Revolution Best Defender” by the club’s media.