A few weeks ago, as Stewart returned to Chicago to take care of personal matters during the all-star break, he happened to be on the same flight as Ellinger who was heading to Chicago to watch the all-star game. Among the things the coach and player chatted about were Pope, and how much Stewart was looking forward to the opportunity.

"Having been with C.J. Brown in Chicago, you learn from these older guys and their experience, and that's just what you take away on a daily basis," said Stewart.

The California native might've ended up in a Real uniform much sooner if things had transpired differently. Ellinger confirmed that Stewart was one of the players RSL really liked heading into its inaugural draft in 2005. After selecting 16-year-old Nikolas Besagno in the first round, Stewart was no longer available when the second round rolled around.

Of everything Stewart's added to the franchise, his demeanor on the field stands out most amongst his teammates.

"He's very calm and composed," said Pope. "He's good on the ball and doesn't panic."

Midfielder Carey Talley, who plays directly in front of Stewart on the field said, "His timing is fantastic on tackles, and he just keeps things simple. That's all we've asked out of our backs and that's what they've provided."

That calmness, and ability to keep an even keel under pressure is invaluable to a defender.

Unfortunately for RSL, it won't have that luxury on the field this Wednesday. Stewart will be back Saturday, however, for the club's final match of the season against Colorado, a game that will ultimately determine this year's Rocky Mountain Cup champion.

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E-mail: jedward@desnews.com