Senior co-captain Andrew Russo's success on the field this season will come as no surprise to those who have had the honor of playing with, coaching, or watching him. A feisty forward and strong leader, Russo has blazed a record-setting trail in his career at Bowdoin.
Upon breaking the first-year scoring record three years ago, Russo was awarded Outstanding First-Year Athlete honors. Since then, he has proven to be a versatile player, occasionally spending time at midfield.
"The great thing about Russo is that he can play anywhere. You put him at forward and he scores goals. You put him at midfield and he controls the game," co-captain Mike Crowley '06 said."He can do anything except for defending," he joked. Crowley and Russo played together for three years prior to coming to Bowdoin for the Greater Boston Eagles.
Russo's success is in the record books. Not only did Russo break the first-year scoring record, but he is tied for third for most goals scored in a season. Now he is looking to move up from his second place spot for most goals scored in a career. Scoring two more goals this season would put him at the top of the list. With nine games left in the season, it seems likely that he will be Bowdoin's career high-scorer.
Russo is a strong team player, helping his teammates to succeed on the field. Only six games into his fourth season at Bowdoin, he has the fifth most career assists. Men's soccer coach Fran O'Leary said, "Drew is a very talented soccer player, capable of both creating and finishing scoring opportunities."
Russo has recorded 13 assists over the past three and a half seasons.
Russo's best soccer memories are of the bonds that he has formed with his teammates.
"I honestly think that the friendships I have developed with my teammates over the years have been the highlight of my career," he said.
As captains, Russo, Crowley and Willie Waters '06 lead the team by working hard on the field and motivating the team off the field.
"The captains are doing an excellent job of fostering good team camaraderie amongst our group," O'Leary said. "I am sure that Drew, along with Willie and Mike, possesses the strength of character to ensure that our camaraderie remains intact throughout the ups and downs of a college season."
So far, the team has been successful. With an overall record of 5-1-0, the squad has pulled off big wins, such as their victory over Little East Conference leader Rhode Island College, and their defeat of Colby in overtime.
With less than two minutes left in the second overtime of the September 17 game against Colby, Russo nailed a free kick to give the Polar Bears their second NESCAC and third consecutive win. O'Leary remarked, "His late game winner against Colby best exemplifies what he brings to our team on the field."
Russo, a Government and Legal Studies major, would like to coach youth soccer in the future. But for now, he remains focused on this season. "Our schedule appears to be harder than years past, but I think we're up for it," he said. "We have to take it one game at a time, and hope that we are competing for the championship come November."