SECAUCUS, N.J. - Red Bulls midfielder Mark Lisi announced his retirement from Major League Soccer today, effective January 1, 2007, after six seasons.
"It was the most difficult decision I've ever made," the 29-year-old Lisi said. "When you dedicate and make sacrifices to become a pro and then it ends all so suddenly, there's an empty feeling inside. I've been fortunate to have lived out my dream and do what I've wanted to do since I was a child."
Lisi was forced to miss the end of the 2006 season after he was placed on the season-ending injury reserve list on August 24 after two hernia surgeries and a right adductor strain. The Clemson graduate started the 2006 season by recording an assist in each of his first four starts. He is third all-time in Red Bulls history in assists with 30.
In 2005, Lisi earned a career-high 22 starts for New York, while chipping in five assists on the season. The midfielder tallied four assists in 2004. A year before, Lisi recorded a career-high 11 assists in only 24 games, ranking second in MLS.
"I'm glad that I was able to spend most of my career playing for New York," Lisi said. "I wouldn't have wanted to end my career anywhere else."
Lisi began his MLS career with D.C. United after being selected third overall in the 2001 MLS SuperDraft. During his rookie campaign, Lisi ranked third on the team in points with 13, tallying four goals and five assists.
At Clemson, Lisi led the Tigers with 15 goals and 8 assists during his senior season, earning first team All-American and All-ACC honors. He finished his collegiate career with 43 goals and 37 assists.
"I want to especially thank my family and friends for their unwavering support, along with my coaches, fellow players and fans who have been with me the whole way," he said.
