Sacramento native Matt LaGrassa announces retirement with Republic FC

Matt LaGrassa, Sacramento Republic FC's midfielder, has announced his retirement from professional soccer.

Nov 17, 2023, 10:32 AM

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Matt LaGrassa, Sacramento Republic FC’s midfielder, has announced his retirement from professional soccer.

A Sacramento native and graduate of Pleasant Grove High School, LaGrassa began and ended his career with his hometown team. After signing his first professional contract with his hometown team, the 30-year-old veteran bounced around the USL with appearances for FC Tulsa, Reno 1868 FC, and Nashville SC before returning to the Sacramento Republic FC in 2022.

“Growing up in Sacramento, it has been a dream come true to begin and end my soccer career with Sac Republic. It’s truly been the honor of a lifetime to play for this club. I love this team, I love my teammates, I love the fans, I love this city and I love this game,” LaGrassa said in a press release. “Virtually no one in professional sports gets the opportunity to play for their hometown club or enjoy the considerable success that we achieved. I am grateful to have experienced both. It is through this lens of gratitude and deep appreciation that I have decided to retire from professional soccer.”

Throughout his eight-year career, LaGrassa recorded 219 appearances, 13 goals, and 12 assists.

“Virtually no one in professional sports gets the opportunity to play for their hometown club or enjoy the considerable success that we achieved. I am grateful to have experienced both."@MattLaGrassa announces his retirement. #ForeverRepublic❤️

🔗 https://t.co/2BM3oicRT3 pic.twitter.com/DiVnD3EyRW

— Sacramento Republic FC (@SacRepublicFC) November 16, 2023