DaMarcus Beasley is set to hang up his cleats following the Houston Dynamo's Decision Day presented by AT&T clash against the LA Galaxy (Sunday, 4 pm ET | TV listings).
The 37-year-old, one of the legends of American soccer, announced earlier this season that this would be his last season playing. Kicking off his professional career in 2000 with the Chicago Fire, Beasley has played 11 seasons in MLS (watch his highlight reel below), as well as abroad on two continents, in the Netherlands, Scotland, England, Germany and Mexico.
Ahead of his final game, the Fort Wayne, Indiana native, who was profiled Thursday on MLSsoccer.com, penned a heartfelt letter about the conclusion of his playing career on his social media channels.
Here's the text of Beasley's full letter:
Just another kid with dreams. Dreams like everyone else of one day becoming who they see on TV (or for me on VHS tapes). I have been so blessed to have had some of those dreams come true. Playing in a World Cup. Playing professionally on the same team as my big brother. Playing in Europe, scoring in the Champions League. Playing against my soccer idol Ryan Giggs in the Manchester derby (although I dreamt of playing alongside him one day, lol) I have so many fond memories of my 20 year career, a lot of ups and a lot of downs. All the challenges I have faced, sacrifices I have made, I wouldn't change for anything. I know one thing for certain I wouldn't have done any of this without the help of my FAMILY, my FRIENDS, my TEAMMATES and COACHES. The continued support I got from each of you was a blessing. You all pushed me to be a better player and a better human being. I wish I could thank everyone personally. You have no idea how much you all have meant to me throughout my journey. I have loved every minute of playing this beautiful game. I have given it my all and more! It has brought me and my family to places we would only dream of going!
Lastly I would like to say thank you to football (soccer). You have given a boy, now a man, a joy that can never be taken away. It's a true love I have for this game and I wouldn't be me without it!
Thank you all!!
DaMarcus Beasley
