Despite being chosen by the LA Galaxy in Stage 2 of the 2012 MLS Re-Entry Draft, former Crew goalkeeper William Hemser has decided to retire and pursue a career outside of soccer.

Hesmer retires holding several of the Black & Gold's all-time goalkeeping records, including games played and started (130), wins (59), shots faced (623), saves (412) and shutouts (41). The 31-year-old was an integral part of the Crew's 2008 MLS Cup victory and 2008 and 2009 MLS Supporters' Shields. Hesmer missed the entire 2012 season due to hip surgery.

"William was an important part of the 2008 championship team," Crew President and General Manager Mark McCullers said. "Will was one of the leaders. He was one of the guys who was very vocal, and earned and had a lot of respect in the clubhouse."

Off the field, Hesmer took pride in being part of the Black & Gold's community endeavors since joining the team in a trade with Toronto FC in 2006.

"A lot of people don't know that Will was the Player Representative on the Crew Soccer Foundation Board of Directors," McCullers said. "He was a go-to guy both on and off the field for us."

Hesmer offered up the following message to the Crew organization and its fans:

"Thank you to my family, all of my coaches, Hunt Sports Group, my teammates and especially the fans for allowing me to live a dream for the past 10 years. The Crew and its fans took me in and treated me as if I was family from day one and for that I am forever grateful. Raising an MLS Cup for the Crew on my birthday will always be one of my fondest memories. To see how far the League has come in such a relatively short amount of time is incredible, and it was an honor and privilege to play a small role in it. I am now extremely excited to enter the next phase of my life, and I will enjoy watching the league grow and prosper as a fan.

Forever Massive,

William Hesmer"