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A shout-out to the Revolution supporters

Print | Comments () Posted by Matt Pepin, Boston.com Staff March 28, 2011 04:40 PM

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New England Revolution defenseman AJ Soares is a guest contributor to Corner Kicks.

By AJ Soares, Boston.com Contributor

Hello all. What a game Saturday! Having played my first home and away games for the Revolution, I cannot say how excited I am about the season.

First, on our season opener in Los Angeles, it was great to finally get on the field for a league game with the Revs. I had been asked so many times before the game if it was going to be a sort of homecoming being that I grew up in California, and regardless of what I said before, it really was.

I have to admit that my mom bought out a section of the Home Depot Center, and a big chunk of my friends and family were at the game. It really was a special night in that sense. I actually cried during the national anthem because it was unreal to be representing the Revolution in a hostile environment, in front of my people. Most importantly though, we grabbed a good road point to start the season well.

That being said…

Our home opener was awesome! First of all, I had such a great time and that is 100 percent due to the fans that were at the game. The atmosphere was perfect and the fans without a doubt had a real part in the victory. When the stadium is filled with people who support the team, it really gives the players an extra energy boost.

For example, goalie Matt Reis made a ridiculous save down to his left in the second half and held on cleanly to the ball. It was a dangerous situation, but when the crowd erupted after that save, I had an instant feeling of, “These people really want to win as much as we do.” That feeling is incredible and it was an effort of thousands of people to get the three points yesterday. That sort of camaraderie is my favorite part about being with the Revolution. The players feel support from the community, and within the team we definitely have good relationships.

This post is my shout-out to the wonderful supporters of the Revolution, and a call for people to continue the support. As you all witnessed yesterday, when everyone in Gillette Stadium and in the community pushes for the Revolution to win, it gives us the best chance at getting results.

Thank you to everyone.