Royals Midfielder Erika Tymrak Announces Retirement

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Two-time NWSL Champion and Utah Royals midfielder Erika Tymrak announced she is retiring from professional soccer.

In 2013, Tymrak was the National Women’s Soccer League Rookie of the Year.

“Erika was one of 32 rookies selected in the inaugural 2013 NWSL College Draft and today is one of only nine remaining. For seven years she has given her all for her clubs, Utah Royals FC included, and we want to thank her for the time she spent with us and wish her luck in her next chapter,” General Manager Stephanie Lee said.

Thank you, Erika.
Wishing you all the best!

📰| https://t.co/zNXZXQ1qVu pic.twitter.com/0KWDpjJM2W

— Utah Royals FC (@UtahRoyalsFC) January 6, 2020

Tymrak’s retirement comes on the same morning head coach Laura Harvey announced that she is parting ways with the club to take a position with the U.S. Women’s National Team.

Last season with the Royals, Tymrak scored one goal and put up two assists in 30 appearances for the club.

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It’s hard for me to put into words what soccer has done for me. 25 years ago, I fell in love with the feeling of a ball at my feet, and I never looked back. This sport gave me confidence, grit and drive. This sport has mentally and physically challenged me in ways I didn’t know were possible. This sport has taken me around the world and back, many times. This sport led me to the love of my life, who is now my husband. This sport allowed me to make the strongest friendships that will last a life time. This sport has given me the opportunity to inspire and motivate kids to chase their dreams fearlessly. I have given every ounce of my being to this beautiful game and I am grateful for every single part of the journey. But life is pulling me in a new direction, and I must graciously let go and move forward. To my parents, my teammates, my coaches & my fans- THANK YOU! It’s been one hell of a ride. But I’m ready for a new challenge. LA- here I come.

A post shared by Erika Tymrak (@erika_tymrak) on Jan 6, 2020 at 8:59am PST

Before coming to the Royals, Tymrak played five seasons with FC Kansas City where she won championships in 2014 and 2015.