HARRISON, N.J. (Nov. 21, 2013) – Following an illustrious 17-year career in professional soccer, two-time MLS Cup-winning goalkeeper Kevin Hartman announced his retirement from professional soccer today. Hartman, a member of the New York Red Bulls during the 2013 season, finished his career as one of the most accomplished and decorated players in league history.
“It has been an honor and thrill to play in Major League Soccer over the last 17 years, and I first want to thank my family and friends for their unbelievable support. In addition, I also want to recognize my former coaches, teammates, clubs, and, most importantly, the fans for being a huge part of this ride,” Hartman said. “It was a privilege to have this dream job and watch soccer and the league grow by leaps and bounds since I began my career. I am truly looking forward to the next stage of my life and am very thankful for the many memories and relationships I have made along the way.”
Hartman joined the crew of MLSsoccer.com's Extra Time Radio on Thursday as a guest host. The episode will be posted Thursday afternoon and can be accessed by
clicking here
.
Starting his career with the LA Galaxy in 1997 after being drafted out of UCLA, Hartman is the only player to appear and start in more than 400 regular season matches in MLS, and his 49 playoff appearances are another MLS record.
Hartman played for the Galaxy (1997-2006), Kansas City Wizards (2007-2009), FC Dallas (2010-2012), and Red Bulls (2013) during his career and achieved the following milestones:
- CONCACAF Champions' Cup winner (2000)
- Two-time MLS Cup winner (2002, 2005)
- Three-time MLS Supporters' Shield winner (1998, 2002, 2013)
- Two-time Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup winner (2001, 2005)
- Five-time MLS Cup finalist (1999, 2001, 2002, 2005, 2010)
- MLS Goalkeeper of the Year (1999)
- MLS Best XI (1999)
- Five-time MLS All-Star (2000, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2007)
- Six-time finalist for MLS Goalkeeper of the Year (1999, 2000, 2003, 2004, 2010, 2011)
In addition, Hartman is MLS’ all-time leader in the following categories:
- Games played (416)
- Games started (411)
- Minutes played (37,260)
- Goalkeeper wins (180)
- Lowest goals-against-average, single season (0.62, 2010)
- Saves (1,474)
- Shutouts (112)
- Playoff games (49)
- Playoff starts (49)
- Playoff minutes (4,522)
- Playoff goalkeeper wins (24)
- Playoff saves (175)
- Playoff shutouts (15)
With the Galaxy, Hartman won the 2000 CONCACAF Champions' Cup, two MLS Cups, two Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cups, and two MLS Supporters’ Shields during his 10-year stint in California. The Palos Verdes, CA native then moved to Kansas City in 2007, where he started every minute of each of the 90 regular-season matches in his three-season tenure. The 39-year-old joined the Red Bulls following three years at FC Dallas. In 2012, Hartman recorded 30 starts and earned six shutouts. During his time in Frisco, Hartman compiled 83 starts and helped FC Dallas reach the MLS Cup Final in 2010.
“Kevin has been a top professional during his time here and was a tremendous reference point for our goalkeepers. He also provided us with an experienced option if ever called upon, and his attitude this season was terrific,” said Red Bulls Sporting Director Andy Roxburgh. “We are sad to see him depart our club and Major League Soccer and want to congratulate Kevin on his wonderful and successful career.”
“Kevin deserves to be remembered as one of the all-time greats in Major League Soccer,” said Red Bulls head coach Mike Petke. “Having the opportunity to both compete against him as a player and coach him this season, it is clear to me that Kevin is the ultimate competitor and professional, and it was an honor to work with him. I wish him the best of luck in the next stage of his career.”
Overall, the 14-time MLS Cup Playoffs participant amassed a 180-143-89 regular-season record and a 1.21 goals against average. Hartman earned five caps for the U.S national team.
