D.C. United and Santino Quaranta announced today the veteran midfielder will retire from professional soccer. Having joined United in 2001, Quaranta’s playing career comes to an end after 11 MLS seasons.
“I have no regrets at all,” said Quaranta. “I have accomplished a lot in the game. That was a huge part of the decision; I felt like I have accomplished enough. In terms of the club and leaving D.C. United, it is a place that is near and dear to my heart, with Kevin [Payne], Dave [Kasper] and Benny [Olsen] – whose friendship I will always cherish – and all of the other coaches and people that I have come across in this club. They have all meant a lot to me, and the club is a place that is always going to be special to me and my family.”
Quaranta joined the Black-and-Red in 2001 as the youngest player ever drafted by Major League Soccer. The Baltimore native made history during his rookie season, becoming the youngest player to play, start, score and earn Player of the Week and MLS All-Star honors at that time. Quaranta went on to play 159 matches (120 starts) in his ten seasons with United, contributing 24 goals and 29 assists. In addition, the veteran lifted the 2004 MLS Cup, the 2008 U.S. Open Cup, and was named to the 2001 MLS All Star team.
“Tino’s retirement from D.C. United is, for me, a bitter-sweet moment,” said United President and CEO Kevin Payne. “On the one hand, I’m sorry to see him end his playing days. But on the other hand, I’m so happy to see Santino enter a new phase in his life. He’s decided to spend his time giving back – giving back to children, and giving back in his support of people with substance abuse problems. I’m very proud of him and happy for him and his family.”
“Tino has grown up with this club and I know his heart will always be with D.C. United,” added United Head Coach Ben Olsen. “He should be proud of what he’s accomplished here and the obstacles he’s overcome during his career. He is one of my favorite people I have come across in life and I value his service to the club, but more importantly, his friendship and loyalty towards me.”
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Quaranta spent time away from United in 2006 and 2007. In 2006, he was traded to the LA Galaxy, where he played 18 matches (13 starts) and tallied three goals before spending a brief period of time with the New York Red Bulls, were he saw action as a substitute in three matches. Overall, Quaranta played 180 games (133 starts) during his MLS career, registering 27 goals and 29 assists in 12,097 minutes of action.
Quaranta earned 15 caps with the United States Men’s National Team, being called-up for CONCACAF Gold Cup and FIFA World Cup qualifying competitions. The United midfielder scored his only goal with the USMNT during the 2009 Gold Cup in a match played at RFK Stadium.
“Looking ahead to the future, there are many options,” continued Quaranta. “My first and foremost efforts will be with Pipeline Soccer Club in Baltimore. I’m looking forward to building and growing the game in Baltimore and being able to give back to the youth there. I also plan to be more involved in helping others with addictions, helping people recover. I know a lot of people who are involved in the mission, and I hope I am able to give back and assist others as I’ve been helped.”
