“When the national anthem was playing, there were goose bumps and chills down my body.” 🇺🇸
When Cavan Sullivan made his USMNT debut against Peru, he had his grandfather on his mind.
Larry Sullivan is a Vietnam war veteran who received a Purple Heart.
For Cavan and his brother Quinn Sullivan, playing for the U.S. feels like their way of serving the country.
“When the national anthem was playing, there were goose bumps and chills down my body,” Cavan said.
“I couldn’t stop smiling because I know how proud he is watching.
“Usually, I see him in the crowd. He gives a little salute when the national anthem’s done, so it was incredible.
“He made sure to support me and watch every minute of the games, no matter the time back home.”
Larry Sullivan is now 78 years old and watched the game against Mexico at home, where his grandson scored to become the youngest ever USMNT goal scorer in history.
The army veteran played soccer in high school and college. He was also a longtime coach at Vilanova University and is a huge influential figure in Philly soccer scene.
[via The Philadelphia Inquirer]