He’s been called quick, small, tough, smart and a goal-scoring machine, but he is known to his teammates as Cain Scott.

The sophomore is beginning his first semester at Lawrence High after moving from New Orleans, and has already become a fan favorite for his offensive skill.

“He’s not the fastest, but he is more skilled with the ball, his touches are good, and he’s fundamental,” senior midfielder Sam Stephens said.

Scott was first introduced to the team during summer workouts. Lawrence High posed a different environment than Scott was accustomed to.

“Lawrence High is much bigger than my old school, and the people here are much more friendly,” he said. “It’s easier to meet more people here.”

From the get-go, Scott gelled with the rest of the team.

“Over summer workouts, the team made me feel comfortable, and I got to know everybody,” Scott recounted.

Senior leaders facilitated the integration of their new forward, going out to eat together and just hanging out.

“We made sure he felt like he was part of our team,” senior soccer player Jared Roush said.

While scoring goals is the most widely recognized soccer skill, Scott excels far beyond just finding the back of the net.

“Cain is really good on the ball,” Roush said. “He can dribble through anyone.”

Being able to score, pass, dribble and defend are the marks of well-rounded players — attributes hard to come by in young players.

“He’s skilled, he is always making a play,” Stephens said.

Part of Scott’s skill comes from his experience playing with the Chicago Fire Academy, a development program for the MLS Chicago Fire Soccer Club.

“I gained a lot of individual skills along with team skills,” Scott said. “I’ve learned how to deal with tough situations in games.”

The sophomore’s attitude, not just about soccer, stands out.

“In three years, I see myself in college, earning a degree and playing sports,” Scott said.

The Lion’s new forward won’t only be an integral part of the team this year but could be a cornerstone for the program in the long run.

“It’s awesome to have such a young player come up and be so good,” Roush said. “Cain will have a big impact on our team this year but also for future teams.”

The future is bright for Scott, given his previous experience.

“Cain can definitely play in college and even beyond if he wants to” Roush said.

For now, teammates have big plans for him in Lawrence.

When asked about Scott’s future as a soccer player, Stephens said with a sly grin, “He is going to score a lot of goals.”