University of Virginia sophomore Matt Chulis is the captain of the U.S. U-20 team that reached the second round of the World Youth Championship. SOCCER AMERICA: What kind of reception have you gotten in Malaysia? MATT CHULIS: ItÆs been wonderful. The people of Malaysia really welcomed us with open arms. The crowds have been pretty pro-U.S., actually. TheyÆve been chanting for us ù itÆs been great. SA: Has it been difficult to adjust to the heat? MC: We did some work trying to get ready for it by wearing sweatsuits and wool hats, but itÆs really almost impossible to simulate it. ItÆs very hot, and the humidity is so high ù itÆs been pretty tough. SA: WhatÆs the toughest adjustment between playing in college and playing at the international level? MC: The biggest difference is the amount of time you have on the ball. In college, you can hold onto it for a while, but here if you try to hold it, youÆve got guys on top of you right away and you get stripped. SA: WhatÆs the biggest difference in the team since last yearÆs qualifying tournament in Mexico? MC: Just our growth as a team, the way weÆve all come together. WeÆve done a lot of hard work and been through a lot together and weÆve really gelled. SA: And the biggest difference between the U.S. players at your age and those from other countries? MC: Just the number of professionals on their teams. WeÆve got a lot of guys on our team who are in college. But with MLS and Project-40, I think that will change. SA: What are your thoughts about all the reports of bribery that occurred in 1995 and are a major concern in Malaysia? MC: Well, weÆve got a security officer right next to the elevator on our floor, so if anyone were to try to see us, theyÆd have to go through him. by Soccer America Online Editor Pete Bailey