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New England Revolution II announced its latest roster move as they announced the signing of 16-year-old academy product Noel Buck.
The Arlington, Massachusetts-native joined the Revolution Academy in 2017 at the age of 12. Buck made 66 appearances across multiple levels within the Revs Academy and scored 11 goals in the midfield and forward positions.
After the 2020 season came to an end, Buck would participate in Revs II postseason workouts and participate in the Revs 2021 preseason. Buck impressed enough to earn a spot on the roster at the beginning of the year.
Buck would make his professional debut on April 10th, 2021, as he started in the Revs II season opener against Fort Lauderdale CF. Buck would play all 90 minutes in Revs II’s 1-0 victory.
On top of becoming the fifth academy product to transition to Revs II, Buck became the first academy player to score for Revs II. His first professional goal came during May 16th’s 2-2 draw against Chattanooga.
Buck has been a vital piece of the Revs II offense throughout the 2021 season. Buck has appeared in all eight matches for Revs II in 2021 and currently leads the team in goals with three.
Revolution Technical Director Curt Onalfo said that Noel Buck “has impressed with his performances over four-plus years with the Revolution Academy and he has earned this opportunity to continue his development at the pro level as a full-time member of Revolution II.” Onalfo added that “Throughout the 2021 season, Noel has worked diligently to take full advantage of his minutes at the League One level, and we are excited to watch Noel continue growing as a player in the years to come.”
Two years into its formation, it has been incredible to see how Revolution II has impacted the organization. It has allowed first-team players to get some crucial minutes while also allowing academy prospects to develop their game and has given them a path into the first team.
With alums like Jon Bell and Maciel already making impacts on the first team, it will be interesting to see what comes from the Revs II program in the coming years.