by Michaella Lesieur, Staff Writer
At age 25, 5’8” and weighing in at 150 pounds, New England Revolution soccer player, Scott Caldwell has stolen the field and the hearts of many, bringing the love of soccer to New England.
Jersey number six is not just a number; however, one that carries momentum and the drive to succeed. Caldwell was the second Homegrown Player in club history; soccer-goers have watched him since his time spent in the Revolution Academy before his debut in the season of 2013.
He attended the University of Akron where he was awarded the notation of Most Outstanding Player in the 2010 College Cup, all the while leading his college team to the NCAA Division 1 National Championship.
The Braintree native has grown up living and breathing the soccer air. “I grew up in a soccer family, always watching my older siblings play and kicking the ball around on the sidelines,” said midfield New England Revolution player, Scott Caldwell. “I’ve always remembered being on the field and around the game so much, that I grew to love it and dreamed of playing professionally.”
In 2015 not only was Caldwell voted the 2015 Santander Team MVP by none other than, his Revolution fans, but also named Players’ Player of the Year by his teammates. The talent is an understatement as he holds record caps with the Under-14, Under-17 and Under 18 United States national teams.
Signing with the Revs just shy of 2013, on December 21, 2012 was a pivotal and rewarding moment for a dream that was about to become a reality. “I was excited to sign with the Revs out of college, but I knew there was a lot I needed to do and improve on if I wanted to play or make a career of it,” Caldwell said.
Looking at him as of June 2016 he has had an outstanding 83 starts, 2 goals, 11 assists, 27 shots on goal and has played in 104 career matches. In order to keep up with it all, Caldwell also recently made his 100th career appearance this year.
Team work can transform anything and collaboration is key when communicating on the field. “Anytime you can have all 11 players on the field playing for one another, you have a very good chance of winning the game,” says Caldwell. “Teamwork is the difference between winning and losing.”
Not only is each goal important but each time the Revs take the field. “Every game is important and it is no different this late in the season,” says Caldwell. “With so few games left, we need to win most if not all to make the playoffs.”
Future hopes, dreams and goals are certainly something Caldwell thinks about. “I hope to still be playing soccer in 5-10 years,” said Caldwell. “But if not I would like to be involved on the business side of sports.”
Family is the rock when looking for support and someone to lean on, when the tough gets going or even in the most celebrated moments. “I have always looked up to my older siblings and parents when I need support or advice,” said Caldwell.
The development and skill advancement in soccer is important and you can never do it alone. “Like I said before, family has been a huge part of my growth in soccer, but friends and fans have played a role too. We have amazing fans in New England,” said Caldwell. “The passion they bring every game is influential in our home games.”
As the 2016 soccer season comes to a close in October, Caldwell will enjoy a break, but will be revving it up for next season.
“It’s always nice to get a little break and take a vacation,” said Caldwell.
“But the offseason is short and it is important to stay fit and ready for next season to lessen the chance of injury.”
Good luck to my friend Scott Caldwell in the remainder of his season and to the rest of the New England team. To stay up to date with Scott Caldwell you can find all his stats at revolutionsoccer.net.