EAFC October Player Spotlight: A Rising Star with Big Dreams

Eastshore Alliance FC is excited to feature Ellis, a talented player from the 2015B Navy team, in our October Player Spotlight. Ellis’ passion for soccer, dedication to improvement, and leadership on the field have made him stand out as a rising star in our club.

A Journey of Five Years in the Making
Ellis's soccer journey began at home, kicking the ball around with his dad in the backyard. What started as a fun activity quickly turned into a serious passion. "I’ve been playing soccer for about five years now," Ellis says. "I started by playing in the backyard with my dad, and I just loved it."

This early exposure to the game set the foundation for Ellis’s growth and his development into a key player on the 2015B Navy team. His most memorable moment so far? Scoring a goal in the spring of 2024 against Alameda SC. "It felt amazing," he recalls. "That goal was special."

Dreams of Playing on the Big Stage
Ellis’s ambitions are clear and focused: he aims to play professionally one day, specifically as a Central Attacking Midfielder (CAM) for Manchester City. "I want to be CAM for Manchester City," he shares confidently. His admiration for players like Rodri and Erling Haaland drives him to keep improving. "Rodri is always supporting his teammates, giving them options. That’s how I want to play—always available and helping my team."

And if Ellis ever had the chance to play with any professional player? "It would be Haaland," he says with a smile. "If I passed to him, he’d score."

The Midfielder’s Mentality
Ellis plays as a Central Midfielder (CM) for the 2015B Navy team, a position that keeps him involved in every aspect of the game. "I like getting the ball a lot and creating plays," he says. "Coach has taught me that when I’m playing CM, I need to drop down and offer support to my defenders."

Ellis’s game-day routine is methodical, preparing both mentally and physically for every match. "I usually have eggs and toast on game days, and I drink lots of water. I warm up with juggling, passing, and shooting to get into the zone."

Overcoming Challenges and Staying Positive
As with any young athlete, setbacks are inevitable, but Ellis tackles them with a positive attitude. "After a tough loss, I power through and stay positive," he says. His leadership qualities also shine through when his teammates need a lift. "If my teammates are feeling down, I try to cheer them up."

This positive outlook, combined with his commitment to improving his game, has earned Ellis recognition from both his teammates and coaches. According to Coach Bryan, "Ellis has been our most improved player over the course of the 2023/24 campaign season, making huge strides over the summer as well. It’s really showing up in his play on the field this year, and I want to congratulate him on all the hard work he’s put in. Well done, Ellis!"

A Love for the Game and Beyond
Outside of soccer, Ellis enjoys a variety of activities, including school, tennis, chess, and reading. His well-rounded approach to life complements his dedication to the sport. Ellis looks at Coach Bryan as his biggest supporter, always encouraging him to learn from his mistakes and grow as a player.

Looking Ahead
With his focus, skill, and determination, there’s no doubt that Ellis has a bright future ahead of him in soccer. Whether it’s creating plays for his teammates, scoring goals, or continuing to learn from role models like Rodri, Ellis is a player to watch as he continues to develop within Eastshore Alliance FC.

We are proud to spotlight Ellis this month and look forward to seeing all he will achieve on and off the field.