Former Charlotte 49ers standout midfielder Donnie Smith (Matthews, NC/Charlotte Catholic) was in the starting lineup for the New England Revolution's regular-season opener on the road at the Chicago Fire last Saturday. Smith, who played 53 minutes in the game, helped the Revolution defeat the Chicago Fire, 1-0, on the road.

Smith was selected as the 21st  overall pick by the Revolution in Major League Soccer's SuperDraft in January.

Smith was named Atlantic 10 Midfielder of the Year this past season. He earned first-team All-Atlantic 10 honors in 2012 and 2010. He was a second-team All-Atlantic 10 selection in 2011. Smith scored four goals and recorded four assists last season. Smith scored game-winning goals against South Carolina, Richmond and Saint Louis.