After 14 years and 137 international appearances, U.S. international Heather Mitts became a former U.S. international on Wednesday, the 34-year-old right back announcing her retirement from soccer via Facebook.
The University of Florida product was a part of three gold medal winning teams during a national team career that began in 1999.
At the professional level, Mitts spent time with the Philadelphia Charge, Boston Breaks, Philadelphia Independence and Atlanta Beat between the WUSA and WPS.
“The time has come for me to move onto a new stage of my career,” Mitts wrote on Facebook.
“It’s been an amazing journey with some obstacles but in the very end I feel so fortunate that we were able to close on a golden note.”
Mitts was part of the team that won gold at the 2012 London Olympics but had spent most of her time in a reserve role after the emergence of Ali Krieger before the 2011 World Cup.
In all, 104 of Mitts’ international appearances came as a starter. Her 137 caps are sixth all-time among U.S. national team defenders.
According to her announcement, Mitts plans to stay involved in the game and is set to assume a role with the Philadelphia Union:
Mitts had been allocated to the Boston Breakers of the new National Women’s Soccer League.
The final thoughts from her Facebook post:Its amazing how 28 years of playing a sport I love and always will, can fly by. From my first cap til now, the growth of the sport has been profound. I look forward to the launch & success of the NWSL, and rooting on my Boston Breakers. Old ladies club of Christie Rampone & Shannon Boxx keep the flame alive! I leave with so much gratitude to US Soccer for allowing us the right to play for our country. Lastly the fans. Your constant love and support for the sport and this team is among the best in the world. I look forward to joining you to cheer on this amazing team.
“Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.”
Thanks to all the people who have made this dream possible.