From RCL Division 5 to Division 1: Julius Chen's Story

Development isn’t a straight line. It’s built on effort, resilience, and a relentless commitment to improving every day. Julius Chen is a great example of that journey in action.

Julius, age 10, currently plays on Eastside B15 White. A versatile attacker who can play striker, midfield, or on the wings, he brings a simple mindset to the game. He loves to score goals.

He’s been with Eastside FC for two years, and in that time, his path through the club has been anything but static.

Julius started on the B15 Bellevue White team in Division 5. It was his first step into the club, and he saw it as a chance to prove himself. He committed right away, putting in extra work outside of team training and focusing on improving every day.

That work paid off quickly. His first coach at Eastside FC, Coach Mike Mata took notice.

"When I first met Julius, his potential and determination stood out right away. Over time, he continued to earn every step—joining Eastside, progressing from Bellevue White to the Red team, and making a real impact. His growth reflects his commitment to improving and his genuine love for the game," Mata said.

Midway through the season, Julius earned a move up to the B15 Bellevue Red team. Instead of settling, he kept pushing. More training. More repetition. More focus. By the next season, he had taken another step forward, moving to the Preston B15 White team competing in Division 1 with coach Josh Chasan.

"Julius consistently showed his worth throughout our RCL season. He brings a focused attitude to training every day and has a relentless competitive drive at games. He leads by example and is well-liked by his teammates because he treats everyone around him with respect. I'm excited to see his continued development in the game," Chasan added.

Julius consistently showed his worth throughout our RCL season. He brings a focused attitude to training every day and has a relentless competitive drive at games. He leads by example and is well-liked by his teammates because he treats everyone around him with respect. I'm excited to see his continued development in the game!

With each jump, the level increased. So did Julius’ motivation.

He embraced the challenge of playing against stronger competition and didn’t just adapt. He made an impact. That belief didn’t come automatically.

One of the biggest challenges Julius faced was overcoming self-doubt and proving himself to new coaches and teammates each time he moved up. His response was simple. Outwork it.

He built habits that separated him. Early mornings before school getting extra touches, consistent ball work, juggling, 1v1 moves, and additional training sessions on weekends.

Behind that effort was strong support. Julius credits his parents as his “ride or dies,” always there at games, helping him train, and encouraging him to keep chasing his goals.

When asked what advice he would give to players looking to move up within the club, his answer reflects his journey. Work hard, love the game, and stay competitive.

He stays motivated by thinking about what he wants to achieve and looking up to players he admires, like Lamine Yamal, whose creativity and confidence inspire his own style of play. His favorite move is the fake shot, simple, effective, and all about timing.

One of his proudest moments so far has been traveling with the team to Surf Cup in San Diego, competing against top-level opposition and representing the club on a bigger stage.

Off the field, Julius enjoys skiing and even has a background as a ski racer, another example of the athletic mindset he brings to everything he does.

Julius’ story is a reminder of what’s possible within Eastside FC. Pathways are real. Progress is earned. And for players willing to put in the work, opportunities are there to be taken.