gearing up for another assault on the Carolinas as a member the High Point University soccer squad.

Next week he will fly back to North Carolina to begin pre-season training with the Bobcats under the watchful tutelage of head coach Lee Gibson.

But he will have to avoid is his favourite snack -- the dreaded bags of Doritos -- which doctors have put on his "stop-list'' as heavy consumption causes him to break out in hives.

This summer gave Adams time to relax and reflect on the events of the past year where he enjoyed numerous successes both in and out of the classroom.

He distinguished himself well as a member of the Bermuda World Cup team, was named a second-team All-American as well as being placed on the All-NAIA District 26 squad.

But more importantly, even with all the distractions, the young man stayed focussed. Enough so that he managed a 3.0 grade point average -- no shabby accomplishment -- which earned him the Millis Scholar Athlete Award for outstanding academic achievement.

During the World Cup campaign Adams was constantly involved in a juggling act, jetting out most weekends to meet the Bermuda side and returning just in time to resume classes.

He enjoyed a celebrity status at High Point as a legitimate international ballplayer, but stayed cool and composed, never allowing the attention to overwhelm him.

"It had its ups and downs, but all in all it was a good experience,'' said Adams, now a sophomore. "I think last year's World Cup gave me confidence.

"I'm more sure of my ability, whereas before I never knew deep down whether I could compete against good players.

"It's unfortunate that we're not still in the World Cup, but for most players it had to help their games.'' Nevertheless, now it is time to "hit the books'' and prepare for another season with the Bobcats.

Adams' main goal is two-fold. On the one hand he wants to maintain his academic average and also help the school to a repeat of last year, when they won the Carolinas Division. An added bonus sits at the end, with the division champion guaranteed a place in the national collegiate tournament.

"Soccer-wise I'm looking at trying to make first team All-American and become a recognised player in the college arena,'' Adams said confidently. "I'm already recognised here (Bermuda) and I'm looking to do the similar thing overseas.

"I feel that if I come out successful my team will also as I am the last man in defence.

One thing, it's very physical over there, because they watch a lot of American football, but with a little knowledge and skill you can get around them.'' Adams sent out praise to current and former players Lou Simmons, Willie DeGraff and Leon (Cubba) Place -- all goalkeepers -- for the help provided during his formative years in the junior ranks.

At 20 he has already achieved more than most players do in an entire career.

However, he still feels that he has a ways to go before he can feel totally satisfied.

"I enjoy playing in goal. It's a real challenge, that takes 90 or sometimes 120 minutes of concentrated effort.

"A goalie is the heart of a team, he can be the one to win or lose a game.

Whether it be with a great save or a by conceding an easy score he can either motivate or depress the players around him.

"One thing for me is that I never look at myself as being the best and always feel there is room for improvement...when you feel satisfied it's time to hang up you're boots.'' A 120-strong contingent from PHC will depart on August 28 to take part in the Atlanta Cup -- formerly the Pele Cup.

Four teams -- Under 11, Under 13, Under 15 and Under 17 -- are included in the party with the remainder made up of parents, officials and other supporters.

The tournament takes place September 4, 5 and 6.

BERMUDA'S FINEST -- Goalkeeper Dwayne (Streaker) Adams displays the wooden plaque he received for earning a place as a second team All-American.