where Bradley was an assistant coach -- before moving to Chicago when his college coach took over the MLS expansion club in 1998.
"Jesse has been an unsung part of the Chicago Fire's success over past the past eight seasons," said Bradley. "His teammates have always had a great deal of respect for what he brings to the team each and every day. I'm certain he will have similar impact here with Chivas USA."
As the owner of seven championship rings, Marsch is one of the most successful players ever to play in MLS. He won MLS Cups with D.C. United in 1996 and 1997, then went on to earn his third consecutive league championship as Chicago defeated United in the 1998 MLS Cup Final. Marsch has also won four Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup titles, one with United (1996) and three in Chicago (1998, 2000, 2003). The 32-year-old has also made one appearance for the U.S. national team, seeing time as a substitute in a scoreless draw with Trinidad & Tobago in 2001.
"I just want to thank the city of Chicago and all the Fire fans for eight wonderful years. My family has really enjoyed the time here and my kids were born here, so I'll always have a place for Chicago in my heart," said Marsch. "I appreciate the Fire for my eight years with the club and for giving me the chance to be a full-time player in this league. The things I'll remember most about Chicago won't be the championships or games we won as much as the wonderful people that I've had a chance to get to know and how they've impacted my life and the lives of my family, and that's what I'll carry with me the most."
Marsch's eight seasons with the Fire come to a close with him near that top of many statistical categories for the club. His 200 games played is the most in Fire history, while he ranks third in games started (182), third in minutes played (16,300), fourth in assists (29) and sixth in goals (19).
"It would be impossible to measure the positive impact that Jesse has had on our club, both on the field and off," said Fire head coach Dave Sarachan. "I've known Jesse on a personal and professional level for some years, and this decision did not come easily. Although his leadership and experience will be missed, we felt it was the right time to make this decision. I want to wish Jesse all the best as he moves on with his career in soccer."
The Fire also announced that Caballero will not rejoin the team for the 2006 season. The Honduran national team member saw action in 17 league games for the Fire in 2005, while also pitching in during other competitions. He scored one goal and added one assist during his brief stint in Chicago.
"I want to thank Samuel Caballero for his professionalism and his time with the club in 2005," said Sarachan. "He was a great influence on our young defenders last season and I wish him much success with his new opportunity."
Jonathan Nierman is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
