Official release from DC United
D.C. United and Devon McTavish announced today the 27-year old defender's decision to retire from professional soccer.
The Winchester, Va. native had a successful run with the Black-and-Red, helping United claim the 2006 and 2007 Supporters' Shields, as well as the 2008 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.
The versatile defender joined United in 2006 after a standout career at West Virginia University. After being selected in the fourth round (43rd overall) in the 2006 MLS Supplemental Draft, McTavish went on to play a total of 83 regular season matches (69 starts) during six campaigns with United, contributing one goal and four assists in 6,149 minutes of action.
"It has been a pleasure to have worked with Devon on and off the field for the past six years," said General Manager Dave Kasper. "He is a true professional with a huge heart and we wish him the best of luck with his future endeavors."
"Devon was the first guy I knew that played for D.C. that grew up a D.C. United fan," said Head Coach Ben Olsen. "On the field his versatility always seemed to bail us out, and you couldn't find a better teammate. Off the field his commitment to the community was the best I've seen in my time here and he seemed to always cherish being a part of this club in a way I hope our current and future players embrace.""I feel good [about the decision]," said McTavish. "I have to take care of my body, and after talking to a doctor I have taken his advice. I thought long and hard about it and just decided that it's time to quit playing the game - mostly for health reasons."
