While Diego Fagundez managed to slip into the Dartmouth Youth Soccer Association fields unnoticed, the moment he introduced himself to one lucky youth soccer team, the secret was out.

The New England Revolution midfielder took a trip to Dartmouth on May 24 to treat the Vipers U11 girls team to a meet-and-greet and practice session. After introducing himself and shaking hands, he launched into coaching mode, providing two tips for the group of aspiring soccer players before running them through a scrimmage.

“You know what the most important thing is? Talking,” Fagundez said. “The other thing is you have to make sure you look at your surroundings.”

That advice resonated with Coach Peter Pacheco. It’s what he teaches his players during each practice.

Like his players, the visit was a surprise. It’s the result of his team winning the New England Revolution’s “Play, Eat, Score” contest. Fans filled out an online entry form and submitted a brief essay on their team. The Vipers were one of five winners this season. In addition to the practice session with Fagundez, teammates won a pizza party from Papa Gino's and free tickets to a Revolution home match.

“I saw some email traffic from parents collaborating on submitting something, but when I got the email that said we won and he’s coming, I’m like ‘wow,'” Pacheco said.

It’s not Fagundez’s first time treating young soccer fans to a special practice session, but it always brings a smile to his face.

“I love to see the smiles on the kids’ faces,” Fagundez said. “When I come out and see smiles on their faces, it makes me happy too.”

Players, too, enjoyed the visit, and their shared connections to Fagundez.

“He’s my number, and he’s very, very good,” Isabella Cashman said.

“He was very nice, a good coach, and he was very respectful,” Sydney Medeiros added.