Comments from Alex...

Last week, we told you that Alex Yi had decided to retire from professional soccer. Here's the press release. We had asked Alex if we could tape him for an FCD TV episode, or at least get comments for the sites. He said no problem, but asked us if we could wait until after the game versus New York.

When we asked him why, he told us that he didn't want to take any attention away from the team as they prepared for the home game. On Sunday, he sent us the following to share with you.

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First of all I would like to apologize to all those who are huge fans of FCDTV, I was offered the idea of doing something on camera but turned the opportunity down. I must say that I'm a little camera-shy and not as savvy as Chris Gbandi at saying good-byes.

I feel it was time to stop playing soccer for a couple different reasons. The main reasons for me were my constant hamstring injuries, obviously, and my strong desire to finish school. Before I had the chance to really think about retirement seriously, I was always excited at the prospect of continuing my education after my career. That time has arrived sooner than later, and I'm grateful to have the opportunity.

Soccer will always be a passion, an obsession really. I've had an amazing life playing with some of the best players in the country and even the world. I have old teammates all around the league and different leagues around the world; many, many memories and friendships to last a lifetime.

I know soccer will always be in my life – if it's coaching and training kids, kicking a ball around on weekends - I will always love this sport, not just for the amazing spectacle that it is but for everything it has given and taught me.

I want to thank everyone for their support: the FC Dallas coaching staff, past and present; Marcus Owens, Josh Watts, Daniel Granados and Robbie Cox.

I want to thank the fans and supporters of FC Dallas.

Finally and most importantly I want to thank my teammates. I have had the best teammates any player in this league can ask for, through the most difficult times I have always been given unbelievable support and I thank you guys for that.

I know how hard we've all worked for the season and I truly believe there is something special in this locker room.

See you at PHP!

Thanks,

Alex