Concussions force L.A. forward Cristman to retire

Carson, CA – Los Angeles Galaxy forward Adam Cristman retired Tuesday, citing concussions as the reason he ended his six-year MLS career.

The 27-year-old Cristman joined the league in 2007, when he was drafted by the New England Revolution. A finalist for MLS Rookie of the Year, Cristman played 46 games for the Revolution.

Cristman later played for the Kansas City Wizards, D.C. United and L.A. He had one goal in 13 appearances for the Galaxy, but played just twice this year.

"The concussions I have suffered this year have forced me to retire. While this is not the way I wanted to leave the game, I am excited for what the future holds as I transition into the next phase of my life," Cristman said.

Cristman missed the first two months of the season because of a concussion he suffered in a preseason game, and suffered another concussion in training.

"It was a pleasure to have Adam with the Galaxy the last two years and we are saddened to see him have to end his career because of injury," Galaxy general manager and head coach Bruce Arena said.

"We want to wish Adam and his family the best with all his future endeavors and thank him for his service to the club."