Portland Timbers veteran midfielder Ned Grabavoy has confirmed that he will retire from professional football at the end of the 2016 season.
Grabavoy, 33, was initially drafted as the 14th overall pick by the LA Galaxy in the 2004 MLS SuperDraft before being traded to Columbus Crew SC in 2007.
He has won the MLS Cup twice in his career, and has soldiered on for 13 seasons, playing for six different clubs. He is also one of 39 players to have appeared in 300 MLS games with 17 goals and 31 assists in the regular season.
"I've put a tremendous amount, physically and mentally, into this sport over a long stretch of years, and as difficult as this decision was, I know in my heart this is the right time for me to step away from the game that I love,'' Grabavoy told MLSsoccer.com.
"I feel truly fortunate to have spent 13 seasons with some of the best clubs in Major League Soccer, and having played a role in the growth of this league is something I'm very proud of. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have spent my final season with the Portland Timbers organization, a club I believe is one of the most special and unique in Major League Soccer.
"I cannot thank my family enough for their support and the endless sacrifices they've made throughout the years to not only put me in a position to succeed, but provide me the opportunity to enjoy playing the game as long as I have. Although I'm saying goodbye to the playing phase of my career, I'm excited and eager for the challenges that await me.''
Timbers general manager and President of Soccer Gavin Wilkinson was quick to praise the midfielder, as he summed up the professionalism and commitment that Grabavoy brought to the club.
"On behalf of the organization, I would like to thank Ned for choosing to play for the Portland Timbers during his final season, and congratulate him on a long and successful MLS career,'' said Wilkinson.
"Ned is a consummate and cerebral professional, traits that will serve him well as he transitions into his chosen career.''