Nick Awada's path into the Development Academy wasn't straightforward.
Upon joining the Boston Bolts during his sophomore year, he first played for their NPL side. Then came a progression up to the ECNL group and ultimately a promotion to the DA team last spring.
This fall, that trajectory even meant the 18-year-old forward couldn't play for his local high school in Westford, Mass., a decision Awada said was "very difficult."