MLS Player Chooses Priesthood Over Soccer

New England Revolution reserve defender Chase Hilgenbrinck has decided to retire from professional soccer to enter the priesthood. When asked what influenced his decision, Hilgenbrinck said, "Because the priesthood pays a lot better than MLS."

Okay, he didn't say that, but it's probably true. After all, you don't see Kaká leaving A.C. Milan to join the clergy, even though he has said he would like to become a priest when he retires. That's probably because Kaká is in a much better position than Hilgenbrinck to use his soccer skills to promote good deeds -- which is exactly what the Brazilian superstar doing with the UN World Food Program's "Fill the Cup" campaign.

By contrast, Hilgenbrinck would probably do more good in the pulpit than on the pitch. Then again, if he ever gets the urge to play again, there's always the Clericus Cup. The seminaries are probably recruiting him heavily as I type this.

I wish Hilgenbrinck well in his new mission. Catholic priests don't exactly have the best image these days.