Caroline Casey played three seasons with Sky Blue FC. (Photo courtesy of Sky Blue)

Goalkeeper Caroline Casey has announced that she will not return to Sky Blue FC as she will focus on medical school.

Casey, 24, spent three seasons with Sky Blue after being selected No. 29 overall in the 2016 National Women’s Soccer League College Draft. She appeared in 13 matches and recorded 35 saves and two clean sheets. Casey made her professional debut as a rookie on opening day of the 2016 season in Seattle, recording seven saves to help secure the 2-1 victory over Reign FC.

“I sincerely enjoyed much of my time as a professional athlete,” Casey said. “I cherish the opportunity Sky Blue gave me to pursue something most people only get to dream about. However, I have decided to hang up my cleats this year in pursuit of other passions. I have decided to spend this time preparing and training for a future career in the medical field. To every player in the league, I will continue to support you in your efforts to continue to grow the women’s game and inspire others, especially the younger girls. To my teammates, no one will ever know what we have been through, but the bonds and memories we share will last forever. I am so honored to have played with you all and more honored to call you all my friends”

A graduate of the College of William and Mary, Casey set a school record for the most saves with 303 across her career. In addition, she was named the 2015 Colonial Athletic Association defensive player of the year. Casey appeared in 78 matches and finished her college career with 29 shutouts.

“Caroline is a great keeper and leader and she knows what it means to be a good teammate,” Sky Blue head coach Denise Reddy said “She was amazing for us both on and off the field, and she will be greatly missed, but I respect her decision to start a new path in her life and I look forward to watching her succeed.”

Added team president and general manager Tony Novo: “She has been an excellent asset to our team these past few years and will be greatly missed this season. Not only was Caroline a crucial part of our organization on the field, but she was an great individual off the field. We wish her well in her studies and our door is always open if she decides to return to the game.”