The making of Cavan Sullivan: Soccer in diapers, an ‘F you’ mentality and a family obsession

Philadelphia Union prodigy Cavan Sullivan has emerged as one of American soccer's brightest prospects at age 16. Sullivan signed a professional contract at age 14 that includes an agreement to eventually join Manchester City, having consistently played well above his age group since early childhood.

Coaches and executives, including former academy director Tommy Wilson and Union coach Ryan Richter, credit Sullivan's success primarily to his fearless competitive mentality. Sullivan accelerated his schooling at age 10 to focus on professional soccer and continues to live with his family in Norristown, Pennsylvania.