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Cameron Coming Back Home

Huston Dynamo rookie returns to New England for MLS debut.

March 25, 2008 

 BY PETER GOBIS / SUN CHRONICLE STAFF

Having done everything that has been asked of their top draft choice, the two-time defending champion Houston Dynamo are expected to reward rookie midfielder Geoff Cameron with a ticket home - to be on the opening day MLS 2008 season roster.

In rematch of the 2007 MLS Cup championship, the New England Revolution and Dynamo will kick off the "futbol" season in North America Saturday evening (7:30) in Foxboro at Gillette Stadium.

And wearing No. 20 for Houston will be Attleboro native Cameron, the former University of Rhode Island Ram, the Atlantic 10 Conference's "Midfielder of the Year" in 2007.

"I'm glad that I got a contract and that I'm on the roster, but I'm working my way up, I can't be satisfied sitting on the bench," said Cameron earlier this week as Houston was making its preparation for New England.

After being selected by Houston in the third round of the MLS Super Draft, the Dynamo's first pick and the No. 42nd player taken overall in January, Cameron has been on an introductory course in Professional Soccer 101.

From preseason orientation camp in Houston for Dynamo rookies, free agents and first year players to preseason training excursions to San Jose, Calif., Hawaii, Houston, Guatemala and back to Texas, Cameron's eyes have been opened. But, his frame, feet and flair on the field have wowed the Dynamo staff.

"I've been doing well, pretty much I've been the only rookie to dress in the "A" team matches," said Cameron of performing on the pitch with the Dynamo veterans. The 6-foot-3 Cameron has played both inside and outside at midfield, "everywhere, I don't care where, so long as I get a chance to play."

Cameron has been housing with Houston second-year midfielder Corey Ashe, a Virginia native and All-ACC player who last year played in 22 matches, starting six for the Dynamo last year. Now Ashe is in the starting lineup.

"Coming in I was apprehensive," Cameron said of a rookie finding his niche, his role on the roster. "I had heard stories, but here in Houston everybody helps out. The atmosphere is unbelievable."

Even Houston's premier players, Dwayne DeRosario and Brian Ching. "They're the nicest guys. They can see that if you're willing to work hard, they'll do everything that they can to help you become a better player."

Even Houston coach Dom Kinnear has been very supportive of Cameron and his transition from an outstanding collegiate player to a professional at the highest level of soccer in America. "They tell me that they like what they've seen," said Cameron of his chats with the sideline staff.

"They see my potential and I want to prove that I'm doing well. I couldn't be in a better place."

Cameron was a National Soccer Coaches Association Mid-Atlantic Region First Team all-star and was one of 54 NCAA Division I seniors invited to the MLS Combine in early January in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.

Cameron spent two years at Attleboro High before transferring to Providence Country Day School in East Providence. He then spent two years playing soccer in the Big East Conference at West Virginia before transferring to URI.

Indications are that many a family member from Team Cameron and many members of the Attleboro Youth Soccer Association will be on hand for Cameron's homecoming and pro debut.

Cameron took No. 20 for his Houston jersey as it was the same number that he wore with the Bayside United club team.

"I got a lot of playing time while the team was in Hawaii, I feel like I'm getting more confident," said Cameron. "Everything is a lot quicker, everything is faster. If you make a mistake, it kills you at this level."

The training and conditioning work is much different than what it was in college. "In college, the training was longer, you're doing 20, 30 minute drills. With the pros, it might be just 90 seconds, but it's more intense.

"Even in the practice, the passing, the dribbling, the simple fundamental things are the most important. If you don't have a good first touch, you'll get yelled at."

Cameron just hopes to hear yells of support on Saturday from family and friends in Foxboro - even if it is in the jersey of a foe.

Article courtesy of www.thesunchronicle.com - for a printable PDF,  click here.  









 




 



















	   

		    
		    

	
	
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