BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. -- The Chicago Red Stars announce that defender Jill Oakes is expecting her first child, and in a mutual agreement between both parties the organization today announces her release.

The Los Angeles-area native played in 15 regular-season games for the Red Stars last season, and she hopes to return to Women's Professional Soccer for the 2011 season.

"We want to congratulate Jill. She will be missed on the field this year, but we look forward to her return to WPS in 2011," Red Stars General Manager Marcia McDermott said. "We wish her the best."

"It's such a miraculous blessing to be able to have a child, and it empowers me and my choice, to follow my path and embrace it," Oakes said. "We're excited about our growing family. It is hitting me as all of my colleagues are gearing up for the season that I won't be with them. It's a transitional struggle with that piece missing. But I intend to return and be an ambassador of WPS and the success of women's sports."

Oakes was the second overall pick by FC Gold Pride in the 2009 WPS General Draft, but she did not make the Bay Area's first-team roster. The Red Stars later acquired Oakes and she quickly had in impact for Chicago's defense during the team's inaugural 2009 WPS season.

"Getting picked up was a great opportunity, and I was very happy to be seen as an asset," Oakes said. "The first season was a roller coaster, but walking away from last season, it was an incredible experience to be part of a brand new league that I hope sticks around for a long time, for future generations."

The Chicago Red Stars are members of Women's Professional Soccer and play their home games at Toyota Park in Bridgeview, Ill. The Red Stars' 2010 home opener takes place on Saturday, April 17, against Saint Louis Athletica. For more information about the Red Stars, log on to www.ChicagoRedStars.com or call 866-WPS-2009.