Mike Petke (born January 30, 1976 in Bohemia, New York) is an American soccer defender, who currently plays for D.C. United in Major League Soccer.

After playing college soccer at Southern Connecticut State University, Petke was drafted by the MetroStars in the first round of the 1998 MLS College Draft. He spent the next five years with the Metros, becoming the only constant under an ever-changing regime of coaches in players. A fan favorite who often dyed his hair, Petke is the MetroStars all-time leader in games played with 134 (157 in all competitions).

Perhaps Petke's finest moment as a Metro came on August 20, 2000, just four days after Tampa Bay Mutiny forward Mamadou Diallo broke the ribs of Metro goalkeeper Mike Ammann. Petke, who rarely scored goals, got one in the Metro win over the Colorado Rapids, and unveiled a t-shirt that said August 16th: Crime of the Century on the front and Revenge is Coming on the back. While such support for a fallen comrade was welcome by teammates and Metro fans, it was frowned at by the league and Petke was fined for his efforts. Amazingly, Diallo got away without any punishment.

Petke, a three-time MLS All-Star, did not have a good season in 2002 and was traded to DC United with a draft pick and an allocation for Eddie Pope, Jaime Moreno, and Richie Williams. He won the MLS Cup with DC during his season season there. In seven years in MLS, Petke has scored nine regular season goals and added four assists.

Petke currently has two caps with the US national team, the first coming June 7, 2001 against Ecuador.

See also

• List of current MLS players