Dallas - FC Dallas midfielder Oscar Pajera announced today that his professional playing career will come to an end following the 2005 FC Dallas season.
"Oscar Pareja represents the very best of the players that have worn the professional soccer uniform in Dallas," said FC Dallas President and General Manager Greg Elliott. "While he is an exceptional soccer player, Oscar is an even better individual and my respect for him is immense.
"We will work with Oscar over the next several months about his life after soccer and are hopeful that he will continue to be part of the FC Dallas family in some capacity."
Pareja, 36, has appeared in six matches with FC Dallas this season, making two starts and totaling 223 minutes of playing time. He has also played in one reserve division match on May 29 at DC United, appearing in all 90 minutes during the game.
"The decision to retire has been a difficult one to make, but I have the support of the front office, the coaches and most importantly my family," said Pareja. "It is time for the next chapter in my life and I look forward to seeing what challenges come my way in the future.
"I had the time of my life and I hope to go out on the highest of notes - win an MLS Championship with FC Dallas."
The Medellin, Colombia native has appeared in 177 MLS matches, recording 12 goals and 51 assists. He began his MLS career with New England in 1998, playing 13 games with the Revolution before being traded to Dallas on August 15, 1998. His career-high for goals came with Dallas in 1999 (4) and his career-high for assists was in 2001 (12). Voted Honda Most Valuable Player for Dallas in both 2001 and 2002, Pareja was also named a member of the MLS Best XI in 2002.
Prior to being allocated to New England on May 26, 1998, Pareja played for Deportivo Cali, where he helped lead the team to the 1995-96 Colombian championship. Registering 11 caps with the Colombian National Team, he scored three goals in international competition.
"Oscar has been the heart and soul of this team since he came here in 1998," said FC Dallas Head Coach Colin Clarke. "He is the ultimate professional on and off the field and is a leader that the younger players can learn from and look up to."
