Charlotte (NC) — Charlotte soccer legend Jorge Herrera is retiring.

“To Charlotte, thank you for welcoming me and my family,” said Herrera. “To the teams that I played for, the Eagles and the Independence, just the chance to play the game, to represent the teams and the city. Just thanks. Those are memories that will last forever. ”

Since moving to the United States in 1999, the Colombia native has collected an abundance of career achievements. Playing for both the Charlotte Independence and Charlotte Eagles, Herrera’s has left his mark on the USL Championship record book. 2nd most appearance with 231. 2nd most minutes played at 15,833. 2nd most regular-season goals with 72. 2nd most career assist with 35. Herrera was the first signing in Charlotte Independence history. He scored the first hat trick. He was the first Independence player to 100 appearances. He scored, arguably, the most iconic goal in Independence history.

“I just love the guy,” said Independence President Jim McPhilliamy. “He’s a tremendous father and husband and figure in this community. I’m so excited for his next chapter and I thank him for everything he’s meant for this team.”

As the third-oldest goal scorer in USL Championship history, Herrera exits his playing days with a longevity that even surprised him.

“Honestly, I never thought I would play for this many years,” said Herrera. ”If you do stuff the right way, it's most likely that good things are going to happen. It's not for sure they're going to happen, bad things are going to happen. But that's how I grew up and I see the game.”

What does the next chapter for Herrera have in store? He says no matter where he does the game will never leave him.

“New opportunities, new changes,” said Herrera. “I haven't had the time to think about retirement. I’ve been so blessed to play that I got to play professionally for over 20 years, but I’m ready to start new projects and focus on what is next in my life.”