As the longest-tenured player set to graduate from the Revolution Academy in 2020, Trevor Burns has made great strides over his seven-plus years rising through the club’s youth ranks. The son of original Revolution defender and former general manager Michael Burns, the Georgetown-bound midfielder has long understood what it takes to succeed at the game’s highest levels. Before the Southborough, Mass., native heads south to the nation’s capital to begin his NCAA career, we asked Burns to reflect on his time in the program and how it helped him develop into the well-rounded player and person he is today.

What drew you to join the Revolution Academy?

Burns: “I have always wanted to compete at the highest level that I possibly can, and the Revolution Academy is the top program in the region.”

What has been your favorite part about being a member of the Revolution Academy? Do any specific memories or moments stand out to you?

Burns: “My favorite part has been traveling to play teams across North America. Whether it was the Generation adidas Cup or Showcase events, it was extremely beneficial to be able to compete against top teams outside of our region. My first game for the Academy was a highlight, and the first time that I trained with the first team. I trained with the first team for the first time when I was 15 years old and several times after that. It showed me the level that I hope to play at and provided me valuable experience for my development as a player. Both were incredibly valuable experiences and helped me progress as a player.”

How has the Revolution Academy prepared you for Division I college soccer at Georgetown?

Burns: “The Revolution Academy is a very professional environment and the coaching staff has always done a great job focusing on the long-term development of players, and I feel as though the past seven years in the academy have put me in the best possible position to succeed at the next level. I have dealt with many ups and downs both as an individual and in terms of team success. It has all helped me to deal with different obstacles to continue to try and improve as a player and as a member of a team.”

What are your overall career goals?

Burns: “My career goal has always been to play professionally, but I never try and think too far ahead. There are a lot of things that I still need to improve on in order to have a chance of playing at that level.”

What mindset do other young players need to have to achieve their goals of playing at a high level? 

Burns: “I feel it is important to think about what is important to you and what you want to achieve. Once you have that set in your mind, keep working as hard as possible and try to enjoy the process as much as you can.”