Boston Breakers' Amy Barczuk retires

Boston Breakers midfielder Amy Barczuk has retired at the age of 25.

"I am very grateful for my three years in the NWSL and this past season with Boston. It was a very difficult decision to retire, but I know it is time for me to move on to the next chapter in my life. I am going to miss the sport and my teammates greatly," Barczuk said. "I would like to thank the Breakers for their professionalism and support; it was a pleasure to play for such a great club. I would also like to thank my teammates. I couldn't have asked for better girls to play with and I wish you all nothing but the best this next year."

The Breakers initially acquired Barczuk before the 2015 season in a trade with the WNY Flash, giving them the #18 pick in the 2015 college draft. Barczuk went on to play in every game of the season, with 18 starts out of 20 appearances. She was part of a defensive midfield duo with Katie Schoepfer, the two of them soldiering through the season in front of the back line.

Barczuk was a workhorse for the Breakers, quietly putting in her hours every game. But with new head coach Matt Beard revamping the midfield before the 2016 season, perhaps she considered this an ideal time to step away. She's not the only NWSL player to retire while still in her physical prime, especially when steadier job opportunities beckon.

Without Barczuk, the Breakers will probably be looking to McCall Zerboni to fill in at defensive mid. 2016 is the season of change for Boston and Barczuk's departure from the roster won't be the last.