Teen's soccer workout proves to be Revolutionary experience
The little guy sprinting alongside a few of the biggest names on the New England Revolution in Foxborough tried to make his best impression.
Scott Caldwell, 18, joined the Revolution for a few training sessions last week after he was called up from the club's youth development academy, which was formed in 2008. The midfielder from Braintree, listed at 5-foot-6 and 125 pounds, has plenty of soccer experience to draw from and filed away a few more lessons from the pros.
Tuesday "was the first day, and it was kind of intimidating to be out there, but (Wednesday) was much better," Caldwell said. ". . . It was just seeing the guys that I watch on TV and watch in games, and now I was right beside them."
This summer, Caldwell will enjoy a little relaxation while trying to stay in shape as he prepares for his freshman season this fall at the University of Akron. Last season, the Zips reached the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Division 1 Tournament for the fourth time, secured their 11th Mid-American Conference regular-season title, sixth MAC Tournament championship, and ended the season ranked ninth in the nation in the National Soccer Coaches Association of America poll.
This spring, Caldwell enrolled in classes at Akron and trained with the Zips.
Caldwell graduated from Bradenton Academy in Florida last year. It is a residency program geared toward academics and soccer. Caldwell logged many hours with the US national team at various age groups, playing at the U-16, U-17, and U-18 levels.
Last year, Caldwell was selected a 2008 Parade All-American and a ninth-ranked prospect by Top Drawer Soccer.
The team, coached by Rick Kates, collected more than 4,700 cans and raised $2,910 to buy food for the local food pantry. The team not only raised money but also volunteered with local track organizations, nursing homes, and at a local center for battered women.
Monique Walker can be reached at mwalker@globe.com. ![]()



