The end of the road has arrived for Brian Kamler, and he's hanging up his cleats on his terms.
Kamler has spent the past 10 years playing professionally in Major League Soccer. He's played in over 200 games, won several championships and broken several bones in his face, but his unforgettable run as a pro is coming to a close.
Real Salt Lake's inaugural season finale at Rice-Eccles Stadium this Wednesday will also be Kamler's career finale.
"I don't know how I'm going to feel. I have a feeling after the game it's going to be a big sigh of relief, and a little reflection," said Kamler. "Playing 10 years of a professional sport is a long time. To be able to be a part of this is really quite an honor."
Once it's over, Kamler says bring on the snow.
Through the years, Kamler's commitment to his trade has prevented him from ever hitting the slopes. But now that his career is over, and he's living in Utah, it's time for him to discover what's so great about sliding down the white stuff.
If he approaches his skiing career with the same vigor he did his soccer career, he'll be shredding up the mountain in no time.
Make no mistake about it, Kamler could probably play two more years of professional soccer. He's never had a serious injury, he takes care of his body and he has a great understanding of the game.
Ironically enough, those are three of the reasons why he's hanging it up.
Instead of coming back to RSL next year, or another team, and realistically losing more and more playing time to younger players, he's content to end things on a relatively positive note by playing in 27 of Salt Lake's 31 games this year.
Plus, Real Salt Lake management made Kamler an offer he couldn't refuse — director of soccer development.
"When the position was offered to me, that was one of the first thoughts. I can end it on my terms instead of somebody else's," said Kamler. "I had no idea if I was going to be back next year, as far as part of John's plans and the club's plans. It's one of the those things, where I've started most of the year, it's kind of like you're going out on top."
Kamler's new role enables him to tap into the business side of the game, while still having a hands-on approach with the X's and O's.
"I'm just looking forward to helping the club, and I know it sounds real political, but that's how I feel with whatever they need," said Kamler.
The announcement that Kamler would be retiring at the end of the season came after a Sept. 24 home loss to Columbus. Kamler didn't see the field in that game, but he's started in the three games since, and he's even donned the captain's armband for the past two — a first in his career.
"We need him on the field right now, his leadership," said RSL coach John Ellinger. "It's nice for Brian to have this opportunity to finish his career on the field."
Kamler's 10-year career has spanned five different teams, including two stints with D.C. United. In the first two years of MLS in 1996 and 1997, Kamler helped lead D.C. to consecutive MLS Cup titles.
Even though the end of his career won't be nearly as dramatic, as Real Salt Lake was eliminated from playoff contention weeks ago, Kamler insists he's excited about moving onto the next phase of his life.
"I've had 12 years of playing soccer after school, and I wouldn't trade it for the world," said Kamler.
E-mail: jedward@desnews.com