Since he started playing the beautiful game at a young age, Wil Trapp has evolved into a spectacular player, teammate and leader. Born and raised in Gahanna, Ohio, the midfielder developed his skills, impressive tactical awareness and team-first mentality through the Crew SC Academy.
Leadership has come naturally for Trapp as he served as the team captain for the U-16 and U-18 age groups, and was named two-time Crew SC Academy Player of the Year (2009, 2010).
He’s since carried over his positive contributions to the First Team, embracing the role of Vice Captain. But due to his work rate and eagerness to learn, Trapp’s influence doesn’t stop at Ohio’s borders. He’s gained U.S. National Team experience and was recognized as one of the top players under the age of 24 in Major League Soccer earlier this year as he was ranked fourth on the annual 24 Under 24 list.
At just 22 years old, the Homegrown Player represents his club, city and nation exceptionally well. As living proof of how successfully the Black & Gold’s youth program can develop players, Trapp offers his advice to current players in the Crew SC Academy.
“I think the best information I can pass along to current Academy guys is, when you get to this level, it’s a job,” he says. “So you have to take it as such, with a grain of salt, because you’re playing with guys that are much older than you that have families.”
It’s easy to look past Trapp’s youth, as his impact on the pitch and in the community are apparent. Crew SC Sporting Director and Head Coach Gregg Berhalter says Wil Trapp takes his job seriously, as he never stops working to improve and has emerged as a leader.
“He’s extremely focused and extremely driven. He’s dedicated to improving and he’s dedicated to his profession,” Berhalter says. “He’s a player that’s mature beyond his years, and I think that’s what makes him particularly special. He’s young, but you can talk to him like an older player.”
Pushing his teammates, leading by example and always progressing have made the midfielder a valuable asset to the Black & Gold. Growing up playing in the Crew SC Academy has prepared Trapp to excel at the highest level.
“You’re playing soccer your whole life because you love it,” Trapp says. “But when you get to this level, it’s a business and you have to perform, and that’s the biggest step that I had to take. It was difficult, but once you come to that realization, it’s just as fun — you love it just as much.”
Wil Trapp’s contributions both on and off the field, to his teammates and to his community, are undeniable. He embodies the capabilities of the Crew SC Academy and inspires young soccer players all over the country.
