Elaari Figueroa is a rising star for Albion SC Pre-GA 2014, where she shines as a versatile wing and striker. Known for her creativity, speed, and relentless drive, Elaari has already built a reputation as a soccer player who thrives under pressure and brings energy to every match. Inspired by legends like Neymar, Messi, and Lamine Yamal, she is developing her own fearless style of play that is head on, relentless, and aggressive. Balancing the demands of school, training, and competition, Elaari continues to chase her dream of one day representing the U.S. youth team. This is not just another athlete profile. It is the story of a young competitor determined to make her mark on the game of soccer.

What first got you interested in playing soccer?
In 2022, after breaking my forearm, I decided I wanted to learn how to play soccer.

How old were you when you started playing, and what do you remember about your first game?
I started playing at 7 years old. I remember going on vacation and missing the practice before our first game, but when I returned, my coach still started me. I had to learn the game quickly while playing in that very first match.

Who has been your biggest inspiration in soccer and why?
I like Neymar Jr. because he’s really creative and his dribbling is amazing. He makes soccer look fun, and I want to play like him one day. The way he tricks defenders and does cool moves makes me want to practice more.

What position do you play, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I play left wing, right wing, and striker. I like it because I get to be creative and play with a lot of freedom.

Describe your playing style in three words.
Head-on, relentless, and aggressive.

What’s been your favorite memory on the field so far?
In last year’s San Diego Summer Challenge, my team was down 0–3 until the second half. We fought back and tied the game with less than three minutes remaining, pushing it to penalty kicks. I scored the winning PK, and my teammates rushed around me to celebrate.

How do you prepare mentally and physically for a big game?
I practice juggling, and I’m currently at 404. My goal is to reach 1,000 by the end of the year. I also focus on eating well, staying rested, drawing, and playing FIFA 25 on my Nintendo Switch.

What’s your favorite soccer drill or practice routine?
My favorite soccer drills are 1v1, shooting at goal, ball mastery, and passing. I love practicing these because they help me improve my skills and have fun with the ball.

Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
My pregame ritual is to drink plenty of water, eat a bowl of pasta for dinner, and go to bed early.

What does a typical training week look like for you?
From Monday to Thursday, I train for about two hours during school with the soccer instructors at Method Sports Academy. On Monday evenings, I attend a private TopBallers U12 Elite Academy session. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, I have double team practice because I’m rostered on two teams (2015 and 2014). Friday mornings are for speed and agility training, and Friday evenings I join the TopBallers U11 Elite Academy private session. On weekends, I play in tournaments or league games with my club, select teams, or as a guest player.

How do you stay motivated during tough times or after a tough loss?
Even after a tough loss, I keep practicing harder because I want to get better.

Who is your favorite professional player and what do you admire about their game?
Lamine Yamal, Messi, and Neymar are my favorite players because they’re super creative and fast, and they can do awesome tricks with the ball. I love how Messi always finds the perfect pass, Neymar can beat anyone with his dribbles, and Lamine Yamal plays really smart and confident. I want to play like them one day.

What’s your favorite professional team to watch?
San Diego FC and Barcelona.

What’s the best advice a coach has ever given you?
The best advice a coach has ever given me is to just be free on the pitch.

What’s one skill or aspect of your game you’re currently working to improve?
I’m working on talking and communicating better with my teammates on the field so we can play even better together.

How do you balance soccer with school, work, or other commitments?
I’m working on staying focused on the things that are most important to me.

What’s your proudest accomplishment in your soccer journey so far?
My proudest accomplishment is playing up two years and getting to play 11v11.

What does being part of a team mean to you?
Being part of a team means doing my best, playing my part, and always supporting my teammates.

Do you have a favorite quote or motto that motivates you?
“There’s no pressure when you’re making a dream come true.”

What do you like to do when you’re not playing soccer?
I like to travel, draw, play video games, and hang out with my family and friends.

What’s your go-to snack or meal after a match?
I enjoy Korean BBQ after a game.

If you could play a match anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I would love to play a match on the moon.

Where do you see your soccer journey taking you in the next few years?
I see my soccer journey taking me to new challenges and opportunities. I want to keep improving my skills, play at higher levels, and hopefully one day be part of the U.S. youth team. I also want to keep having fun, learning from my coaches and teammates, and enjoying every game along the way.

What advice would you give to younger players just starting out?
My advice is to remember there’s no pressure, so play freely and enjoy the game.

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