Wilbraham & Monson Academy's Macauley Rouette '18 has grown up his entire life in Western Massachusetts, playing a high level of soccer for the majority of those years.
He understands the soccer landscape in the region, and respects its roots and history.
So, when Macauley earned an award that only a select few receive each year, the accolade wasn't lost on the WMA striker.
Macauley was named to the All-State team for soccer, receiving his certificate at school meeting Feb. 1.
"It's great. I'm very happy," Macauley said. "I've worked very hard for it. I've been playing soccer since I was very little. It's always been my dream to be named to something (significant).
"Some of my friends have won it. I hang out with a bunch of buddies who play soccer. They've gotten this award. It's good that it was my time now."
Macauley timed a lot of things just right this season while playing for his dad, Mike, scoring 20 goals for the Titans. He also won the team's Coaches Award for the 2017 season.
"My job was to put the ball in back of the net," Macauley said. "Personally, I feel like I put in a big effort toward the season. My personal goals were reached."
Macauley has been accepted and will play soccer next season at Western New England University.