Joseph, Heaps Named Revs' Best

Club Hands Out Annual Awards

Oct. 20, 2009

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Shalrie Joseph was named 2009 New England Revolution Team MVP, as announced by the team in a pregame ceremony prior to Saturday�s regular season home finale against the Chicago Fire at Gillette Stadium. Jay Heaps was honored with the Best Defender award.

Whether at midfield or forward, Shalrie Joseph has done it all for the Revolution this season. (Photo by CHRIS ADUAMA/aduama.com)

Joseph was also presented with the Revere Cup, signifying him as the Midnight Riders� Man of the Year. The Midnight Riders is one of the Revolution�s independent supporters groups.

Joseph, 31, historically has been judged more for his powerful influence in the central midfield than for this statistical contribution, but this year has scored team-high marks in goals and assists, both career highs with eight. A contender for Major League�s Soccer�s MVP award, this is Joseph�s second Revolution MVP award, and his first Midnight Riders� Man of the Year honor.

Heaps, 33, has been the foundation on which this year�s new defense has been formed � with two rookies and one newcomer. He also earned his first-ever call-up to the U.S. national team for the 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup. He has scored one goal and added four assists playing primarily as the team�s left back. This is Heaps� first Best Defender award.

The Revolution Budweiser Golden Boot, presented to the team�s top goal scorer, was not presented as both Joseph and Kheli Dube are tied for the team lead in goals with eight. It will be decided after the final game of the regular season.

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