Alexander Nicholas Bono Bio
Alexander Nicholas Bono (born April 25, 1994) is an American professional soccer player who plays as a goalkeeper for Major League Soccer club New England Revolution. He began his youth career at Empire United and later played for Syracuse Orange during his college years, where he distinguished himself as a top goalkeeper. Bono was drafted by Toronto FC in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft and became known for his significant contributions to the team, including setting records for clean sheets and victories during his tenure.
Early Life and Background
Born and raised in Baldwinsville, New York, Alexander Nicholas Bono attended Charles W. Baker High School, where he was a two-year starter for the Bees soccer team. During the later years of his high school career, Bono committed full-time to the U.S. Soccer Development Academy club Empire United. Prior to college, he was recognized as the top goalkeeper recruit in the state of New York and ranked as the 51st highest prospect of his graduating high school class. Bono then joined Syracuse University, where he became the immediate starter for the Syracuse Orange men’s soccer program, playing in 20 matches during his freshman season. He made history as the first true freshman goalkeeper to start a season opener since Robert Cavicchia in 2005. Bono recorded a career-high eight saves during the 2012 NCAA Division I Men’s Soccer Tournament against the VCU Rams and matched that tally against the Georgetown Hoyas later in the tournament. His impressive performance earned him a spot on the Big East Conference All-Rookie Team and the title of Rookie of the Year for the Orange.
Path to Soccer
In his sophomore year, Bono maintained similar statistics to his freshman year and was named to the Atlantic Coast Conference Third Team. His junior year marked a turning point, as he helped the Orange achieve top national rankings and secure a ninth overall seed in the 2014 NCAA Division I Men’s Soccer Tournament. Bono’s contributions were pivotal in leading the team to the fourth round of the tournament before they were eliminated by Georgetown. His outstanding performance during this season earned him recognition as a first-team All-American by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America in 2014.
Alexander Nicholas Bono Career
Early Career (2013–2014)
Bono began his professional career with Reading United in 2013, where he played until 2014. He was then selected 6th overall by Toronto FC in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft, considered the highest prospective goalkeeper in that draft class. Bono was loaned to Toronto FC II shortly after being drafted, making his debut against the Charleston Battery on March 21, 2015. His breakthrough came in July 2016 when he was promoted to the first team due to an injury to regular starter Clint Irwin. Bono made 16 MLS appearances that year and played a crucial role in the team’s playoff run, although Toronto FC ultimately lost in the 2016 MLS Cup Final.
Breakthrough (2017–2022)
Bono solidified his position as the starting goalkeeper for Toronto FC during the 2017 season. He broke the club’s record for the most clean sheets by a goalkeeper in a single season, achieving ten clean sheets and winning more games than any other MLS goalkeeper that season. His performance included a standout playoff run, where he kept clean sheets in both legs of the Eastern Conference Final against Columbus Crew. On December 9, 2017, Bono played a key role in Toronto FC’s victory in the 2017 MLS Cup Final against Seattle Sounders, helping the team achieve a historic treble of the MLS Cup, the Supporters’ Shield, and the Canadian Championship. After the end of the 2022 season, Bono left Toronto FC upon the expiry of his contract.
Notable Works and Milestones
Bono’s signature work includes his record-setting performances with Toronto FC, where he became known for his ability to maintain clean sheets and secure victories. His contributions were vital in leading the team to multiple championships and establishing himself as one of the top goalkeepers in Major League Soccer.
Alexander Nicholas Bono Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Alexander Nicholas Bono has received various nominations, particularly for his performances during his time with Toronto FC, where he was recognized for his contributions to the team’s success.
Alexander Nicholas Bono Awards Won
Alexander Nicholas Bono has won several awards during his career, including recognition for his outstanding performances in Major League Soccer and contributions to his teams’ successes.
Alexander Nicholas Bono Family
Information regarding Alexander Nicholas Bono’s family is not publicly available.
Personal Life
Details about Alexander Nicholas Bono’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly disclosed.