North Andover Soccer Athlete Returns From South Africa

North Andover resident Christian Sady recently returned from Johannesburg, South Africa, where he competed in the Future Champions Gauteng Under-17 soccer tournament with the New England Revolution youth development program.

The tournament featured 12 youth clubs from five different continents, with  Revolution being the sole North American representative.

"Playing in South Africa allowed the team to be placed outside its comfort zone and see what soccer meant to people around the world compared to the United States," Sady said. "I feel by watching other teams play, it is evident that their worlds revolve around soccer where as here, soccer is not as widely recognized."

The Under-17s finished the tournament with a 1-3-1 record, sixth place among the twelve international teams – making the Revolution the highest ranked American team in Future Champions history.

"Our team grew over the trip in numerous ways and the chemistry that was developed is surely going to transition us from being a good team, to now a great team," Sady said. "I think the trip to South Africa showed that we can compete with any team in the world and I’m sure this confidence will translate into success."

In addition to his team's success on the field, Sady said he was impressed by the upbeat nature of the South African people he met.

"I found that people in Africa are selfless and cherish their belongings, which gives someone who comes from America a new outlook on life. I loved that kids weren’t afraid to ask for your jersey or something like an autograph because it shows a confident culture and one that accepts outsiders."

For complete game recaps, visit Revolution Soccer's Web site.