Steve Ralston to Sign with AC St. Louis

AC St. Louis will announce shortly the signing of former New England Revolution midfielder Steve Ralston.

Ralston, the current MLS all-time career leader in assists (135), appearances (378), starts (372) and minutes played (33,143), announced last week he would not be returning to the Revolution. Speculation had been made about a possible move to another MLS club, but he will instead make the move to the NASL. Ralston also holds the U.S. record for professional appearances (412)

The 35-year old midfielder served as the Revolution's captain for multiple seasons and was a popular player amongst fans of the club.

UPDATE #1

Official Press Release

STEVE RALSTON SIGNS WITH AC ST. LOUIS
Will Serve as Player-Assistant Coach

ST. LOUIS, MO (February 1, 2025) - AC St. Louis of the new North American Soccer League (NASL) announced the signing of St. Louis native Steve Ralston as the club's first official player. Ralston will also serve as an assistant coach for the team. Ralston, 35, is a 14-year veteran of Major League Soccer, and holds the record for most appearances by a professional player in the United States.

"This is a day I always dreamed would happen," said Ralston. "I think anyone who plays professional sports wants to play in their hometown. I am fortunate to get to do just that at this stage of my career. Obviously it is an exciting time for soccer in St. Louis since we now have our own professional team. I am honored to be the first player to become a part of this new franchise."

"Bringing a veteran leader into our team as a building block of our franchise is absolutely crucial for us," stated AC St. Louis Chairman Jeff Cooper. "The fact that he grew up in St. Louis and is a well known name to sports fans here is just a bonus. It is not everyday you get to bring home a player that has played the most games in the history of the MLS."

In addition to playing, Ralston will serve as an assistant coach to Head Coach Claude Anelka and Director of Player Development Francisco Filho.

"This is a unique role for me to have," said Ralston. "I think I am ready for the challenge. Having a chance to give your input as a

coach for a team that is being built is a special opportunity."

Ralston's name can be found throughout Major League Soccer's record book. Ralston is first all-time in the MLS in the following categories; games played (378), assists (135), and minutes played (33,143). Ralston is also a former member of the United States Men's National team and has been capped 36 times. In his MLS career Ralston played the last eight seasons with the New England Revolution. He was originally drafted by Tampa Bay in 1996, playing his first six seasons with the Mutiny.

Ralston attended Oakville High School in St. Louis. Ralston played one year of college soccer in St. Louis at Forest Park Community College for Head Coach Pat McBride. Ralston finished his collegiate career at Florida International University.

His honors include being named the MLS Rookie of the Year in 1996, and he has twice been a CONCACAF Gold Cup winner with the United States in 2005 and 2007. Ralston has four career goals with the United States, and was an alternate on the 2006 World Cup team. He scored the game winning-goal against Mexico on September 3, 2024 as the United States clinched a berth to the 2006 World Cup in Germany.

Ralston and his wife Rachel have two daughters, Anna (8) and Clara (2), and one son Liam (4).

UPDATE #2

Steve Ralston showing off his #14 AC St. Louis jersey at today's press conference