P. Schulte Columbus Crew Goalkeeper #28 Player Profile and Career Highlights

If you’re following Major League Soccer, you’ve probably spotted the name P. Schulte on the back of that yellow and black kit. Patrick Schulte stands tall as the Columbus Crew’s goalkeeper, wearing #28, and at just 24, he’s become a key player for the club. His steady presence and lightning-quick reflexes have helped the Crew lock down some of their biggest wins.

As the youngest goalkeeper in club history to win an MLS Cup, Schulte really pops on the pitch. The 2023 postseason? He started every match, racked up two shutouts, and made 17 saves that mattered most. No wonder coaches and fans are watching him closely.

Season	Games Played	Shutouts	Saves	Honors
2023	34	10	96	MLS Cup Champion
2023 Playoffs	6	2	17	Youngest Crew GK winner

Patrick Schulte: Bio and Background

Patrick Schulte has made a name for himself in college and now at the pro level. His journey is packed with key achievements and steady progress at every stop.

Date of Birth and Birthplace

Patrick Schulte was born on March 13, 2001 in Saint Charles, Missouri. That Midwest upbringing? It’s definitely shaped his work ethic and discipline.

Saint Charles really supports its young athletes. Schulte’s path from local fields to MLS shows just how much a hometown can matter.

League profiles highlight his age and Missouri roots—he’s moved up the soccer ladder fast. If you want more details, here’s Schulte’s Columbus Crew player page.

Early Life and Youth Soccer

Schulte’s soccer story starts with his youth career. He played club soccer in Missouri, quickly earning a reputation as a dependable goalkeeper. His commitment to training really set him apart.

He came up through local clubs, especially Saint Louis FC’s academy. Those academy matches? They sharpened his skills and put him up against top youth talent.

During high school and academy years, Schulte made key saves and played in big tournaments. Those moments put him on the national radar for college programs.

St. Louis University Achievements

At St. Louis University, Schulte wasted no time making an impact. He stepped in as the starting goalkeeper almost right away, playing at the NCAA Division I level.

His stats at St. Louis stood out. Schulte racked up impressive shutouts and was always in the lineup.

Season	Games Played	Saves	Shutouts
2019	20	60	9
2020	12	36	5
2021	18	54	8

He helped the Billikens to strong conference records and NCAA tournament runs. His reliable shot-stopping made St. Louis a real contender during his time there.

A-10 Conference Honors

The A-10 Conference years brought Schulte plenty of recognition. As a freshman, he made the A-10 All-Rookie Team and earned Most Outstanding Player at the A-10 Championship. He even took home A-10 Defensive Player of the Year honors.

You’ll spot his name all over A-10 awards lists, from All-Conference to postseason honors. These awards show just how much he anchored the defense.

His play didn’t go unnoticed outside the conference, either. College milestones like these set him up for the leap to the pros.

Professional Career with Columbus Crew

Patrick Timothy Schulte’s climb to the Crew’s starting goalkeeper spot is a tale of draft day, development contracts, and grabbing early chances. Each milestone matters as he goes from college prospect to the Crew’s No. 1 man in net.

MLS SuperDraft Selection

Schulte’s MLS story begins in the 2022 MLS SuperDraft, when Columbus Crew picked him 12th overall. That pick showed the club wanted young talent for the future.

Most goalkeepers taken in the SuperDraft spend a while developing. Schulte, though, made waves right away with his shot-stopping and calm under pressure.

Coming out of Saint Louis University, he’d already earned All-American honors. The Crew front office saw something special, and by drafting him in the first round, they made it clear: Schulte was their guy for the future.

It’s not common for keepers to jump straight from college to pro action, but Schulte’s work ethic and maturity stood out.

Notable Achievements at Draft:

• 12th overall pick
• First goalkeeper drafted by Columbus Crew since Zach Steffen
• All-American at Saint Louis University

Generation Adidas Signing

After the draft, Schulte signed a Generation Adidas contract. This deal, offered to select underclassmen and youth internationals, gives both player and team some perks—salary cap relief, guaranteed years, and more.

Generation Adidas status locked in Schulte’s roster spot as he adjusted to MLS. The contract also showed that MLS and the Crew wanted to fast-track his career.

As a Generation Adidas player, Schulte got access to top training, a better salary than most rookies, and educational incentives. He learned from experienced coaches and teammates, which helped him bridge the gap from NCAA to pro soccer.

Generation Adidas Benefits:

Feature	Impact on Team	Impact on Player
Salary cap exemption	Adds roster value	Higher starting pay
Guaranteed contract years	Team planning	Job security
Training opportunities	Faster development	Elite coaching

MLS Debut and Early Matches

Schulte made his MLS debut in the 2023 season opener against Philadelphia. He took command in goal, showing confidence you usually see in veterans.

In 2023, Schulte started 31 regular season matches for Columbus Crew. He posted seven shutouts and made 90 saves, anchoring one of the league’s better defenses.

During the MLS playoffs, Schulte played every minute. He notched two shutouts in six playoff matches, showing he can handle the postseason spotlight.

2023 Season Statistics:

Competition	Appearances	Saves	Shutouts
MLS Regular Season	31	90	7
MLS Playoffs	6	N/A	2

Achievements and Awards as Goalkeeper

Patrick Schulte’s record with the Crew stands out. His quick reflexes, steady hands, and leadership in goal have made him a difference-maker in big games.

Clean Sheets and Shutouts

Schulte’s impact really shows in his clean sheets and shutouts. In 2023, he posted several, including a clutch shutout against Chicago Fire in September.

During the 2023 MLS postseason, he started every playoff game, notching two shutouts and making 17 saves. His ability to step up in high-pressure moments was huge for the Crew’s title run.

Here’s a quick look at his 2023 shutout stats:

Competition	Clean Sheets	Shutouts	Total Saves
MLS Regular Season	8	8	94
MLS Playoffs	2	2	17

MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Finalist

Schulte’s play caught national attention. In 2024, he landed as a finalist for MLS Goalkeeper of the Year. This honor goes to the league’s top shot stopper, based on votes from players, coaches, and media.

Being a finalist highlights Schulte’s steady hands and sharp instincts. His goals-against average and save percentage kept climbing, and analysts pointed to his quick reactions and smart positioning as keys to his rise.

Only the best keepers make that final shortlist each year—Schulte’s in rare company.

MLS Best XI Honors

Schulte also earned MLS Best XI honors, putting him among the league’s best at each position. For a goalkeeper, making Best XI means you do more than just rack up stats.

It’s about respect around the league—for shot stopping, leadership, and coming up big when it matters. Schulte’s inclusion followed back-to-back strong seasons, with plenty of clean sheets and highlight saves.

Best XI honors say it all: Schulte’s not just a Crew standout, but one of MLS’s top keepers, period.

Columbus Crew 2 and MLS Next Pro Highlights

Schulte’s run with Crew 2 and MLS NEXT Pro shaped key moments in his career. His play as a goalkeeper brought him recognition and awards, and helped Columbus Crew 2 reach new heights.

Notable Seasons and Matches

Let’s kick things off with Patrick Schulte’s early pro journey, and it all starts with Columbus Crew 2’s debut in MLS NEXT Pro. When Schulte joined in 2022, Crew 2 worked as the developmental arm for the main squad, holding matches at Historic Crew Stadium and opening doors for young talent.

Schulte grabbed a starting spot and didn’t let go. He played with a cool head and quick reactions, always keeping the defense on its toes.

His leadership made Crew 2 a wall at the back. They became one of the hardest teams to crack, piling up clean sheets and saves along the way.

Here’s a quick glance at Schulte’s Crew 2 stats from 2022:

Statistic	Schulte (2022)
Appearances	20
Clean Sheets	9
Saves	63
Goals Allowed	18

You remember those tight games—Schulte’s late saves often sealed the deal. Every time Crew 2 needed a big stop, he was there.

MLS NEXT Pro Cup Triumph

Schulte stepped up big during the 2022 MLS NEXT Pro Cup run. In the playoffs, he stayed cool, making the kind of clutch saves that push teams into finals.

In that MLS NEXT Pro Cup final, Columbus Crew 2 faced St. Louis CITY2. Schulte started in goal and set the tone early, commanding his box and making timely stops.

The Crew 2 attack took advantage, and they rolled to a 4-1 victory, hoisting the inaugural trophy for Columbus. If you want to relive those highlights, check out MLS NEXT Pro’s official channels or recaps from places like the Columbus Crew 2 website and MLS NEXT Pro Cup coverage.

MLS NEXT Pro Goalkeeper of the Year

Schulte’s steady hands and sharp play didn’t go unnoticed. He took home the MLS NEXT Pro Goalkeeper of the Year award in 2022, a nod to his consistency and the key role he played in Crew 2’s championship.

Fans, coaches, scouts—they all took notice. That award really put Schulte on the map as a future first-team player. League and club announcements from MLS NEXT Pro and Crew 2 made it clear: this guy mattered.

International and Youth National Team Experience

Patrick Schulte’s rise with the U.S. national teams has really turned some heads. His development, from youth call-ups to the senior squad, has landed him on soccer’s biggest stages.

USMNT and Senior International Debut

Schulte got his first taste of national team action at the youth level, but his big break came with the senior United States Men’s National Team. The USMNT called him in for the March FIFA international window, making him one of just three Crew players on a 23-man roster.

He joined the best in the country, training for big matches like the Concacaf Nations League semifinals at SoFi Stadium. His call-up showed U.S. Soccer believed he could handle the pressure.

He didn’t get his match debut right away, but just being there made it clear he was a contender for future U.S. matches. For details about his 2024 call-up, check out the Crew’s announcement on Schulte and the USMNT.

Key Stats: Schulte’s USMNT Involvement

Year	Call-Ups	Roster Role	Matches Played
2024	1	Backup Keeper	0

2024 Paris Olympics Participation

Schulte snagged a coveted spot on Team USA for the 2024 Paris Olympics, representing the nation on one of the world’s biggest stages. Olympic rosters are tight, so every spot counts, and Schulte’s steady club play helped him punch his ticket to Paris.

In training and at the Olympics, Schulte brought his shot-stopping ability and a big voice at the back. Even as a backup, he knew the next moment could be his—one injury or red card, and he’s in.

Playing for Team USA at the Olympics? That’s a big deal, and Schulte handled it like a pro. For more on his Olympic call-up, check the Crew’s national team news.

Statistical Performance and Playing Style

When you’re talking goalkeepers, you want consistency and leadership. Schulte brings both for Columbus Crew, mixing sharp saves with a team-first attitude.

Saves and Goals Against Average

Schulte’s presence in goal is steady and reliable. In regular MLS play, his save percentage hovers around 70%. That’s kept the Crew in plenty of tight games.

Here’s a look at his recent numbers:

Season	Games Played	Saves	Goals Against Average (GAA)
2023	34	105	1.13
2024	18	57	1.09

That low GAA? It shows how well he limits scoring chances. Schulte isn’t flashy unless he needs to be—he relies on smart positioning and quick reactions.

You see it every week: he makes the tough stops look routine. For more stats, check his player profile.

Winning Mentality and Leadership

Schulte stands out for his focus and drive. You can tell he’s all in, whether it’s match day or a training session.

Teammates talk about his work ethic, and coaches trust him to keep the backline organized. He’s not shy about barking orders, especially when the pressure’s on.

That winning mentality was front and center when he helped Crew 2 win the first MLS Next Pro Cup. He leads by example—shaking off tough goals and bouncing back fast.

Every time he steps on the field, his confidence is obvious. That’s a big part of why he’s become the Crew’s first-choice keeper.

Key Postseason and Playoff Moments

Schulte’s playoff performances have been a game-changer for Columbus Crew. He’s delivered game-saving stops, crucial clean sheets, and anchored the defense when it mattered most.

MLS Cup Playoff Appearances

The playoffs? That’s when the pressure ramps up. Schulte has handled it, starting all six playoff matches during the Crew’s 2023 championship run.

His presence in goal steadied a young backline. He provided direction and leadership, especially in those tense late-game moments.

He posted two shutouts in the 2023 postseason, which set him apart among young MLS keepers. The team leaned on his quick reflexes and smart positioning.

Check out his 2023 playoff stats:

Playoff Games Started	Shutouts	Saves	Goals Allowed
6	2	17	7

Schulte became the youngest goalkeeper in Crew history to start and win an MLS Cup. Every match added to his experience and showed his upward trajectory.

Eastern Conference Finals

You can picture the atmosphere—Eastern Conference Final, nerves everywhere. Schulte stayed calm, making sharp decisions as Columbus faced a tough opponent.

He kept his defenders organized and handled set pieces with confidence. The Crew reached the MLS Cup, and Schulte’s steady play was a huge reason why.

Fans and analysts both pointed to his performance as a turning point. Without his saves and leadership, Columbus might not have advanced.

Knockout Round and Postseason Impact

The knockout round is unforgiving. Schulte’s command of the box kept the Crew in every game, and his decision-making under pressure inspired confidence.

His save percentage actually rose in the playoffs. That kind of consistency, when every minute could be your last, is what you want from your keeper.

Against Orlando City, Schulte’s positioning and quick hands helped lock down a 2-0 overtime win, pushing Columbus deeper into the playoffs. For the full story, check out the Crew’s playoff victory over Orlando City.

As the playoffs rolled on, Schulte’s influence only grew. The bigger the moment, the better he played.

Career Milestones and Records

Patrick Schulte’s made a name for himself in Columbus by smashing milestones at a young age. His journey is all about earning respect—breaking youth records and stepping up in the clutch.

Youngest Goalkeeper Records

Schulte didn’t waste any time making history. He became the youngest goalkeeper in Crew history to win the MLS Cup, doing it at just 22 years and 271 days old after the Crew topped LAFC in the 2023 final.

That’s not just a club record. It’s rare for any keeper to lead a team on a championship stage that young.

Here’s a look at those age records:

Milestone	Age	Date
MLS Cup Win	22 years, 271 days	December 12, 2023
Youngest Crew GK with Shutout in Playoffs	22 years	2023 Postseason

Schulte’s rise sets a tough bar for the next generation. Most keepers don’t peak until their late 20s, but he’s already leading from the front.

Notable Achievements

When the pressure’s on, Schulte delivers. In the 2023 postseason, he started all six playoff games for Columbus Crew, finishing with two shutouts and 17 saves.

That’s a direct impact on a championship run—few young keepers pull that off.

Other highlights include:

• First MLS Cup victory with Crew
• 17 saves in 2023 playoffs
• Selected for the United States national team

Schulte’s earned praise for his composure and clutch play. If you judge a keeper by how he performs when it counts, Schulte’s résumé already stands out in MLS.

For more, his latest stats are on his official profile with Columbus Crew.

Contracts, Roles, and Support

Patrick Schulte’s spot with Columbus Crew is built on solid management and a secure contract. As the club’s starting goalkeeper, he benefits from veteran leadership and a deal that keeps him in Columbus through 2027.

Crew General Manager and Support Staff

Every week, strong front office leadership shows up on the pitch. Tim Bezbatchenko, the Crew’s General Manager, handles roster moves and contract talks. His MLS experience? It really helps the club stay sharp in the transfer market.

Around Schulte, you’ll find a dedicated support staff—goalkeeper coaches, physios, analysts. They work with players like Schulte daily, keeping everyone fit and dialed in on tactics. For goalkeepers, this kind of hands-on coaching is huge.

Quick feedback and specialized drills boost shot-stopping and decision-making. At training, the staff mixes technical drills with wellness checks. They make sure every player, no matter their role, is ready for matchday.

Schulte benefits from this crew, no doubt. Their work lets him stay consistent in net.

Multiyear Contract and Extension

Schulte inked a multiyear contract extension with Columbus Crew, locking him in through at least the 2027 season. The deal even includes a club option for 2028.

This contract locks down a key player and makes it clear—management believes in him. The club avoids those pesky contract distractions and gives Schulte real security as the Crew’s number one.

It also makes roster planning and salary cap management a bit simpler. The Crew knows exactly who’s between the posts for several seasons.

Contract Timeline Table

Category	Season Signed	End Year	Club Option
Schulte Extension	2024	2027	2028

Keeping critical players on long-term deals brings stability. For Schulte, it helps attract top support staff and builds a strong locker room vibe. This approach keeps the squad focused on unity and performance.

Stadiums and Venues

When you think about P. Schulte’s journey with Columbus Crew, it’s not just about his saves and leadership. The venues themselves play a big part in shaping those moments.

Some stadiums have a reputation—a certain energy—that affects players and fans alike. That’s just how it goes in this sport.

Lower.com Field

Lower.com Field stands as the Crew’s home turf and Schulte’s regular stage. This modern, soccer-specific stadium sits right in the heart of Columbus, Ohio. The supporter culture is vibrant—no exaggeration.

The stadium opened in July 2021 and fits about 20,000 fans. Sightlines? Excellent from every seat, honestly. The full canopy keeps fans dry and cranks up the noise on matchday.

Players love the well-kept grass pitch. For goalkeepers like Schulte, it means solid footing and true bounces every time.

Inside, you’ll find advanced locker rooms, slick training areas, and dedicated warm-up spaces. Being so close to downtown bars and restaurants, the stadium draws big walk-up crowds, adding even more energy before and after matches.

Key Features of Lower.com Field:

Feature	Detail
Seating	20,000
Opened	July 2021
Surface	Natural Grass
Roof Coverage	Full
Notable Events	MLS Cup, Playoff Games

Sofi Stadium

Sofi Stadium in Inglewood, California, ranks among the largest sports venues in the country. Sure, it’s home to the NFL’s Rams and Chargers, but it also hosts big soccer matches and global events. The place can seat up to 70,000 for the really big games.

For a goalkeeper, Sofi brings its own set of challenges. The field is artificial turf, and the dome keeps weather out of the equation. Crowd noise? It’s off the charts, thanks to that wild audio system and the giant oval video board.

Sofi Stadium has hosted club friendlies, international games, and championships. The luxury suites and top-tier locker rooms are next-level, no question.

Sofi Stadium Highlights:

• Seats: Up to 70,000
• Surface: Artificial Turf
• Opened: September 2020
• Special Feature: 70,000-square-foot oculus video board
• Major Events: World Cup Qualifiers, Concacaf Finals, MLS matches

Noteworthy Matches and Opponents

Patrick Schulte has shown real poise in high-pressure games, especially when facing top teams from both conferences. He’s turned draws into wins and made close games into Crew statements.

Philadelphia and Philadelphia Union

When Schulte faces Philadelphia and the Union, the spotlight gets intense. The Union attack comes at you fast, especially on the break.

Schulte’s made clutch saves in both regular season and playoff battles, keeping the Crew alive every minute he’s in net. In a wild clash last season, he denied two breakaways and held the shutout in the final minutes—Union fans were not thrilled.

These matches are always tight, demanding Schulte’s focus the whole way.

Key defensive moments vs. Philadelphia Union:

Date	Saves	Clean Sheets	Result
April 2024	6	Yes	1-0 Win
September 2024	4	No	1-1 Draw

Every stop mattered, with points on the line in a crowded conference race.

Atlanta United and Nashville SC

Games against Atlanta United and Nashville SC really highlight Schulte’s athleticism and awareness. Atlanta’s quick transitions force him to react instantly.

Nashville’s set pieces test his positioning and communication. Against Atlanta, he’s faced top scorers like Giakoumakis, turning away dangerous shots. Nashville throws in crosses and second-chance efforts, but Schulte commands his box well.

He’s vocal, directing his back line to track runners. These contests are physically draining, but Schulte’s focus and stamina keep Columbus in the fight for clean sheets or narrow leads.

Notable performances:

• Atlanta: Double-digit saves in a big summer showdown.
• Nashville: Pulled off back-to-back stops late in a 0-0 draw.

East Conference Rivals

Facing Eastern Conference rivals like FC Cincinnati, D.C. United, New England, and New York City FC puts Schulte in the center of big moments. These aren’t just games—they’re about pride and playoff spots.

You can’t forget the heated rivalry with FC Cincinnati. Schulte made several crucial stops in a tight Crew win. He’s stood out against New England too, keeping games close even when the Crew struggled in midfield.

Against D.C. United and New York City FC, Schulte’s distribution shines. He starts attacks with sharp passes, helping the Crew move forward quickly.

Eastern Conference opponents:

Opponent	Most Recent Save %	Clean Sheets
FC Cincinnati	84%	2
D.C. United	79%	1
New England	76%	1
New York City FC	82%	2

Other MLS Clubs

Schulte’s experience goes beyond the East. Against LA Galaxy, Toronto FC, Chicago Fire, and Real Salt Lake, he’s faced all kinds of styles.

LA Galaxy brings high-profile attackers and noisy away crowds. Toronto FC games test his reflexes. Chicago Fire’s aggressive pressing means Schulte has to use smart distribution.

One of his top performances came against Real Salt Lake—he racked up a season-high in saves and took home Player of the Match. Schulte adapts to different tactical challenges with confidence and steady hands, no matter the stadium or opponent.

Professional Experience and Legacy

Patrick Schulte kicked off his pro career after Columbus Crew grabbed him with the 12th pick in the 2022 MLS SuperDraft. Early on, he spent time with Columbus Crew 2, where he played a huge role in locking up the first MLS Next Pro Cup and even snagged Goalkeeper of the Year honors.

By 2023, Schulte had taken over as the Crew’s main man in goal. At just 22, he started 31 games and racked up 90 saves—yeah, that’s a lot for a young keeper.

He really stood out during the regular season, and his steady performances led the Crew to a historic moment.

Schulte became the youngest goalkeeper in Crew history to win an MLS Cup. He did it at 22 years and 271 days old, stepping up in a wild final against LAFC, as you can see on the Columbus Crew website.

Here’s a quick look at his 2023 stats:

Matches	Saves	Clean Sheets	MLS Cup Titles
31	90	2	1

You can see the impact Schulte made on the field. Coaches and teammates trusted him, and that says a lot about how far he’s come.

In 2024, the Crew doubled down on their faith in him by handing him a contract extension. That move shows the club really believes in his future and wants him to anchor the Columbus Crew for years to come.

Schulte’s run with the Crew is ushering in a new era for the club’s goalkeeping. He’s building a name for himself with that cool composure, steady hands, and a bit of quiet leadership—on the pitch and off.