Washington, D.C. (Sports Network) - D.C. United midfielder Ben Olsen officially announced his retirement from professional soccer, the Major League Soccer club announced on Tuesday.

"Ben Olsen has been called the heart and soul of D.C. United and, over the years, that is exactly what we've come to expect from him," D.C. United President and CEO Kevin Payne said. "Since he joined our team as the league's first Project-40 player until his last game in the 2009 season, Ben gave all that he had for his team and his teammates. You can't replace a player like Ben, you simply hope that other players can step up and shoulder the mantle that he carried for so long. He's simply one of the greatest players in D.C. United history."

The 32-year-old midfielder won eight total trophies while in DC, including two MLS Cups. He was also a two-time All-Star, the 1998 MLS Rookie of the Year, the 1999 MLS Cup MVP, the 2003 USSF Humanitarian of the Year and was named to the MLS Best XI in 2007.

"Ben has enjoyed a remarkable career at D.C. United and it has been a true pleasure working with such a special person," United General Manager Dave Kasper said. "He has defined what United is all about, and he has set a high bar for professional soccer players in the United States. In his 12 years at D.C. United, he brought us heart, character, personality, intelligence and championships. I know that Ben will be successful in everything that he does in life, and I wish he and his family the best of luck always."