Believe me, the journey wasn’t all fancy stadiums and roaring crowds. It started right here in Cottleville, five-years-old and dreaming with every touch of the ball. Fast forward to 2002, drafted third overall. From the MetroStars to the World Cup, my cleats pounded every inch of the MLS, anchoring midfields, whipping in crosses, and savoring those two MLS Cup wins with the Houston Dynamo.
Wearing the US jersey at the 2014 World Cup? Pure magic. But hey, I was just a Missouri kid with a gifted left foot. My game was all about vision and precision. I was just a kid with a passion for the beautiful game.
Now, boots hung up, I’m still on the field. Coaching, mentoring, and sharing the love of the game with the next generation. It’s about giving back, about that full-circle feeling of seeing kids chase their own dreams.
Background Check: Growing Up in Cottleville
I moved out to Cottleville when I was just 5-years-old. Back then, Mid Rivers Mall was yet to dominate the landscape, and Cottleville City Fields was nothing but a driving range. I attended St. Joes, and now, as I look around, all the offices occupy the space where the church and classrooms used to be. Cottleville is not just a place on the map for me; it’s where I’m from, my home.
The Landscape Shift
Fast forward to three years ago when I had the chance to move back home and dive into the world of youth soccer. I quickly realized that the soccer landscape in the area had undergone a drastic transformation from my childhood. One significant change was the limited access to quality training fields and turf.
Most fields were either owned by an individual club or a City/Municipality, making it challenging for many players/clubs/families to gain access. For families who couldn’t make such commitments, their training conditions were far from equitable compared to others. This realization lit a spark in me to be a part of a change that levels the playing field.
Changing the Game: Cottleville City Fields
This project changes the dynamic by being the only privately funded turf project in our area, and it’s designed for every kid, every family, and every club. As the game of soccer grows exponentially in the US—with World Class stars like David Beckham and Leo Messi gracing the MLS, having our very own MLS club in STL CITY SC, to the World Cup coming to North America in 2026—we see the grassroots levels becoming the heart of this growth.
We felt an obligation to do our part and ensure that our community, our families, and our friends have a place to call their soccer home, which is now Cottleville City Fields. This project isn’t just about laying turf; it’s about creating a haven for soccer enthusiasts, a place where dreams are nurtured, and a sense of community thrives.
A Warm Welcome Home
So, yeah, Brad Davis, professional soccer player, maybe. But more importantly, a kid from Missouri who never lost sight of his dreams and goals both on and off the pitch. This is about coming full circle and creating a home for soccer in the heart of Cottleville. Welcome home!