Dayton Flyers

DAYTON, Ohio - Former University of Dayton men's soccer standout Chris Rolfe is making the move from the MLS to the Danish Superliga. Rolfe was in his fifth season with the Chicago Fire when he confirmed the signing of a three-year contract with Aalborg of the Danish Superliga.

Drafted out of the University of Dayton in 2005, the 26-year-old has notched a total of 35 MLS goals over his career and is currently tied for second on the Fire with five goals.

"[Playing overseas] is something that I have always wanted to try and right now is a great time for me to take on a new challenge," said Rolfe. "Over the last five years in MLS, I've had the opportunity to play with and against some great players. I've gained a lot of experience at a professional level as well as the international level."

Many players use the Scandinavian leagues as a stepping-stone to a larger league or club in Europe. Rolfe hopes this opportunity will be the beginning of a very long career. Several clubs were interested in Rolfe, who has 10 caps for the national team

When asked about his career at the University of Dayton, Rolfe remarked that it was special.

"I made a lot of great memories and friends over those three-and-a-half years. That was also the time that I made a big step in getting closer to my goal of playing professional soccer," Rolfe said. "I want to wish the Flyers best of luck this season as all of us alumni will be watching and supporting [them]."

In terms of achieving success with a new team, UD Head Coach Dennis Currier has no doubt that Rolfe will make an immediate impact with Aalborg.

"We were extremely excited to hear about his new endeavor overseas. Very few U.S. based players have been able to earn that prestigious opportunity. Chris has worked very hard to achieve this ultimate goal," said Currier. "Aalborg has a long-standing tradition of being one of the best in the top flight Danish League. We are confident Chris will only add to their success."

Rolfe signed the deal earlier this week on a trip to Aalborg, where he toured the city and met the team. He will finish the remainder of the season and contract with the Fire and join Aalborg mid-season on January 1.

By Matt Lang, Dayton, 2013