14 year old Cavan Sullivan made his first start as a professional yesterday in Philadelphia Union 2’s match vs Columbus Crew and officially became the youngest player in American soccer history to start a pro match.

"He's going to work hard and get on the field on merit first and foremost. But I'll just say publicly that he's a lot closer than people think." were the words of Jim Curtin days after the young prospect signed his professional contract. Sullivan's debut came on March 24, and he has since contributed significantly to the Philadelphia Union U17 team, helping them win the Generation Adidas Cup and scoring a crucial goal in the final.

Philadelphia Union 2 coach Marlon LeBlanc stated, "My job is to put him in a position to be successful. We will make sure that he is learning, that he is progressing and that he is also responsible." Sullivan returned to action with the second team shortly after the Generation Adidas Cup final, playing against New York Red Bulls II and again a few weeks later. He completed 55 minutes on the field, showcasing his talent in both team and individual plays.

The promotion of Cavan Sullivan and his emergence with the second team have been highlights for the young player who, in his minutes on the field, has shown that his talent translates into the professional game and that his confidence both off and on the field game will be decisive for his career as a professional player.

Weekend of Debuts and Crucial Moments For Young Players in MLS NEXT Pro

In the Philadelphia Union 2 vs. Columbus Crew 2 match, several young players also made their appearances. Forward Jamir Johnson, returning from international duty with the U.S. U16 team, entered the game in the 55th minute, replacing Sullivan. Johnson was explosive from the wing, creating significant opportunities for his team.

Kellan LeBlanc, another notable player for the Philadelphia Union U17 team, also returned to action in this match. Center forward Anisse Saidi made his official debut in the 73rd minute, having been on the bench previously.

The weekend's highlights extended to the Ventura County FC vs. Tacoma Defiance game, where Harbor Miller, Gabriel Arnold, and Ruben Ramos started for the local team. Snyder Brunell represented Tacoma Defiance. Mexican-American forward Ruben Ramos scored the third goal of the game in the 71st minute, securing a victory for Ventura County FC.

Forward Nimfasha Berchimas started for Crown Legacy FC in their 1-0 victory over Atlanta United 2, completing 62 minutes on the field. Berchimas has recently been called up to the U19 national team, a group of players THREE years above his for the national team. He’s the only 2008 born player in the squad, with the second youngest being 2007 born HG Zavier Gozo from Real Salt Lake.

Decisive Weekend for a Spot in the MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs

The weekend's action in MLS NEXT was critical for many sides trying to secure one of those last spots in the MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs at the end of the month.

CF Montreal U15 achieved two victories, first defeating Philadelphia Union 1-0 with a goal from Zaky Lachhab, and then beating DC United 2-0 with goals from Christopher Lettieri and Guillaume Messi. These results moved CF Montreal into a qualifying position, displacing the New England Revolution Academy.

Charlotte FC U15 secured a dramatic 4-3 victory over New York Red Bulls. Nico Gonzalez opened the scoring, followed by Keegan Kerr equalizing, and Tim McFarland putting the Red Bulls ahead. Carsyn Hall scored twice for Charlotte FC, with David Rutkowski equalizing for the Red Bulls, and Emmanuel Aguilera netting the winning goal for Charlotte.

Real Salt Lake U17 achieved a convincing 4-0 victory over San Jose Earthquakes U17. Axel Uriostegui opened the scoring, followed by two goals from Antonio Riquelme, and a final goal from Brice Miller.

For its part, Real Salt Lake beat the San Jose Earthquakes 3-1 in the last game for both teams ahead the playoffs. Van Parker would score at the 3rd minute into the game and Rowan Martin would quickly score the second goal for Real Salt Lake. Van Parker would score 3-0 in the 70th minute and Samuel Winkel would score the only goal for the San Jose Earthquakes in the 73rd minute.

Orlando City beat Inter Miami U15 2-0 in the Florida derby. Matthew Belgodere scored in the 18th minute while David Giraldo scored the second goal in the 73rd minute.

In turn, Inter Miami tied 0-0 against Orlando City U17 and thus secured its place in the playoffs.