Brek Shea began his professional soccer journey with FC Dallas after a successful stint at the IMG Academy. Drafted second overall in the 2008 MLS SuperDraft, he made his debut on April 20, 2008, and quickly established himself as a versatile player. Shea played various positions, including striker and central midfielder, before settling into a left winger role during the 2010 season. His breakout year came in 2011 when he was named to the MLS All-Star Game and led FC Dallas to multiple victories, showcasing his talent with five goals and four assists in the regular season.
In January 2013, Shea made a significant move to the English Premier League, joining Stoke City for £2.5 million. Although his time at Stoke was challenging, he gained valuable experience through loan spells at Barnsley and Birmingham City. In December 2014, Shea returned to the MLS, signing with Orlando City SC, where he contributed to the team’s inaugural season and scored his first goal for the club in April 2016.
Shea’s career continued to flourish as he joined Vancouver Whitecaps FC in 2017, where he made impactful contributions despite facing injuries. He later signed with Atlanta United FC and Inter Miami CF, further solidifying his reputation as a skilled left midfielder. Throughout his career, Shea demonstrated resilience and adaptability, consistently finding ways to contribute to his teams.
After announcing his retirement from professional soccer in May 2023, Shea left behind a legacy of determination and skill. He also made significant contributions to the United States national team, earning caps and scoring crucial goals in international competitions, including the 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Shea’s journey reflects his passion for the sport and his commitment to excellence on and off the field.