Bradley Orr Retires from Professional Soccer

At 32 years of age, former Toronto FC defender Bradley Orr has decided to hang up his boots after 12 seasons of professional soccer. The retirement was announced this morning on Twitter, where Orr thanked everyone involved with what he considered to be a career full of great memories.

The move came shortly after it was announced that Blackburn Rovers would be parting ways with the Englishmen. He never really caught on with the club, having been loaned out three times to Ipswich Town, Blackpool and Toronto FC respectively.

As of now I am Retired from football.I've loved every minute of my career and I've got no regrets whatsoever only great memories. Thank you!

— bradley orr (@bradleyorr_1) March 2, 2015

Orr only spent one season with Toronto FC, scoring one goal and adding an assist in 19 games. The defender played various roles with the club, who never truly allowed him to play at his preferred right back position. Mainly, he played centreback when Steven Caldwell was injured, or Doneil Henry was suspended or both. He also spent a short, fairly successful, stint as a holding midfielder.

Outside of Toronto, Orr spent time with Newcastle United, Burnley, Bristol City, Queen's Park Rangers, Blackburn Rovers, Ipswich Town and Blackpool. Collectively with these clubs he played over 300 games, scoring 14 goals. He won the Football League Championship in 2010-11, and was in the league's team of the year during the 2007-08 season.

Orr wasn't always the best fit in Toronto who often needed a more athletic defender to compensate for its many mistakes at the back. However, with his experience and professionalism he certainly provided a good example to the club's young defensive core. In that he will leaving a lasting impression on players like Nick Hagglund and Doniel Henry.