“This was not an easy decision. Jack has spent eight years with Kansas City, representing the organization on and off the field with class,” Sporting Kansas City Manager Peter Vermes said. “I understand that it might sound cliché, but we really do wish Jack all the best and sincerely thank him for what he accomplished with this club and in this city.”
Jewsbury, 29, was drafted 43rd overall in the 2003 MLS SuperDraft by Kansas City. In his eight years in Kansas City he has climbed the charts of the club record book, ranking seventh in games started (142), games played (195) and minutes played (13,275), while ranking eighth in assists (21).
“The eight years in Kansas City have been unbelievable,” Jewsbury said. “I’ll never forget all the great times with the team. The ownership over the past few years has been fantastic, taking the team in a new direction with the new stadium and re-brand. So on that end, it’s bittersweet. I’ve made lifelong friends in Kansas City and I’ll never forget the fan support I had all these years.”
After making only two appearances his rookie season, Jewsbury broke into the lineup in 2004, playing in 26 games, including postseason when he started all four matches in Kansas City’s run to MLS Cup. Jewsbury recorded his only career postseason points with an assist and the series-winning goal in stoppage time of the Western Conference semi-finals. In addition to starting in the 2004 MLS Cup, Jewsbury also started in Kansas City’s 2004 U.S. Open Cup final victory.
Sporting also singed three players Tuesday. Draft picks C.J. Sapong and Mike Jones and former NSC Minnesota Stars defender Scott Lorenz all penned contracts.
Jewsbury’s departure means backup goalkeeper Eric Kronberg is KC’s longest tenured player.
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Sporting Kansas City Trades Jack Jewsbury To Portland Timbers