Sacramento Republic FC midfielder JJ Koval announced his retirement from professional soccer, the club stated in a release Wednesday night.

Koval appeared in 30 matches for Republic FC in all competitions this year, including 27 USL matches. He scored his lone goal of the season against Saint Louis FC on Aug. 13.

“We are disappointed to lose JJ, but we completely respect his decision,” said Republic FC Head Coach and Technical Director Paul Buckle. “He played much of last season with an injury and still made an impact for us. We were looking forward to him coming back with full fitness this year. That being said, he was a delight to work with. He is following his heart and we wish him every success in the future.”

Koval spent portions of three years with Republic FC. He was loaned to the club, through its Major League Soccer affiliation with the San Jose Earthquakes, during the 2014 and 2015 seasons, making three total appearances during his first two USL seasons.

“I’m so grateful for my time at Sacramento Republic FC,” Koval said. “I want to thank all of the amazing fans who support the club week in and week out and who make Sacramento the place to play. I wish the club all the best moving forward.”

Koval was the No. 9 overall selection by the San Jose Earthquakes during the 2014 MLS SuperDraft. He appeared in 39 matches in two seasons with the Quakes, starting 16. Koval was the 10th player in Earthquakes history to make 20 or more appearances in his rookie season.