GOLDEN Jaguars’ Forward, 32-year-old Emery Welshman, announced his retirement from professional football.

This announcement was made via his official social media account (Facebook). Welshman earned 28 caps and scored 11 goals for Guyana’s senior men’s national team in a career that lasted eight years since his debut in 2015.

The full statement follows:
“It has been a dream. After a decade of professional football, it is time to hang up the boots officially. I want to thank God for giving me the opportunity to achieve this goal. I want to thank all the coaches, staff and front offices that I’ve worked with.

“All my incredible teammates with whom I’ve shared some of the best moments of my life. Most importantly, my family, my Mom and Dad for the dedication, support, and sacrifice they showed me.

“Whether it was waking up at obscene hours or rushing home from a full day’s work to ensure I was on time, to training and games, that support base has influenced my life, and I will always be in debt. Love you always, my big brother, for being my idol, motivation, and inspiration.

“My sister, her unwavering support and encouragement has helped me through a lot of difficult times.

“To all of my extended family for their love and support, thank you; it meant the world.

“To my beautiful Guyana, representing my mother and father’s beautiful roots internationally has been the best moments of my career, and I will cherish those incredible memories for the rest of my life.

“To my kids for enduring all the important times in your little lives when Daddy was “away for soccer”, thank you so much. And even though you’re still begging me to continue playing, I know this is what’s best for us.

“Most importantly, a special thanks to my incredible wife for burdening all the hardships and the loneliness that comes with being a pro-athlete spouse. Thank you for taking care of our family while I’ve been trying to live out my dream.

“The strength and support you’ve shown me and our family over the years is truly inspiring. You are one of one. Thank you, and I love you.”