Indiana University Athletics
Ten Questions with New England Revolution Rookie Kevin Alston
6/11/2009 12:00:00 AM | Men's Soccer
June 11, 2009
Just a little over six months ago, Kevin Alston was taking the field with his Indiana teammates in the quarterfinals of the NCAA Tournament. Fast-forward to June, and the 21-year-old is a starter on the back line for Major League Soccer's New England Revolution. With the help of the Revolution staff, the two-time All-Big Ten honoree recently spoke with iuhoosiers.com about the transition from college to professional soccer.
How is life in MLS treating you?
"It's pretty good. It is definitely different, but I like it. I definitely don't have any complaints. It's a lot of down time and free time so I can't really complain about that."
What has been the biggest difference from the college game, and how have you made that transition?
"Just the level of play, the speed of play, the all-around physical aspect, and the skill, are elevated. Everything is raised. In practice, I think I've tried to adjust to the all-around speed of play. I make sure I'm not taking my time with the ball. I try to limit my touches and also to get my touch down to make sure I'm clean technically."
What did you learn in your three years in the college game that has helped you make the jump to the professional level?
"At Indiana, I learned hard work. We are all about working hard as a unit, never giving up and always believing and just getting after it every time."
When you were injured early in the season, how frustrating was it, and what did you do to stay focused and get through the rehab process?
"It was pretty frustrating because I got to play the first two games and I was looking forward to playing the first home game. When I got the injury, especially in the last five minutes of practice, it was hard. But I've been injured before so I know what it feels like, so I just kept my head up and worked on recovering."
What has been the best/most fun/most exciting thing about being a professional soccer player?
"Well, free time is definitely a plus. The crowds and playing at home and having them get to watch you and hearing them scream and yell just gets you pumped up. It's a good feeling."
What has been your most memorable on-field moment from the season so far?
"I'm still waiting for that most memorable moment."
What has been the best advice one of the veteran players has given you?
"Probably to stay focused throughout. I guess to keep it intense and keep myself focused are the best things they've told me so far."
With "professional soccer player" checked off on your list of goals, what are you working toward now?
"Amateur golfer."
Is there anything you really miss about Bloomington or IU?
"I miss all the people there. I miss hanging out with everybody. I miss the campus life. Bloomington is a great school to just go and hang out and have a good time so I miss everybody and everything."
What is the one piece of advice you would give a young soccer player out there who has dreams of playing professionally?
"Keep believing, never give up hope, and keep working hard."
Photo courtesy of Keith Nordstrom/NE Revolution/MLS
