From kicking the ball around with his dad as a kid to facing elite competition in countries like Spain, England, and Germany, Haitian winger Stephan Destin’s journey is one fueled by passion, family, and purpose. Currently in transition to a new team after finishing his time with the i2i International Soccer Academy, Stephan plays as a dynamic right and left winger. Blending pace, creativity, and hunger for goals, he’s not only climbing the ranks on the field but building something off it too through his brand, Destinclothing. Inspired by legends like Ronaldinho, Neymar, and Saka, he represents the power of culture, confidence, and consistent work ethic.

What first got you interested in playing soccer?
My dad used to play soccer with me when I was younger, and I found a love for it.

How old were you when you started playing, and what do you remember about your first game?
My first real competitive game, I had a lot of energy and excitement. I just remember being aggressive and wanting to win with my team.

Who has been your biggest inspiration in soccer and why?
I grew up watching Ronaldinho and seeing how much control he had over the ball. I’m Haitian, and a lot of us support Brazil, so I’ve always watched guys like Ronaldinho and Neymar play.

What position do you play, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I play right wing and left wing. I enjoy creating opportunities to score—whether it’s me scoring or setting up a teammate.

Describe your playing style in three words.
Pace (Fast), Tricky, Goal scorer.

What’s been your favorite memory on the field so far?
Playing against Liverpool FC Academy—it was insane. Competing at that level was eye-opening. Also, becoming the third all-time goal scorer for my academy meant a lot to me. I wanted to be top three before I left, and I made it happen.

How do you prepare mentally and physically for a big game?
Physically, I watch clips of myself playing in my position and listen to some of my favorite songs. Mentally, I remind myself to keep a cool head and not let one mistake ruin the rest of the game.

What’s your favorite professional team to watch?
Arsenal.

Who is your favorite professional player and what do you admire about their game?
Bukayo Saka (people say I look like him) and Neymar. Saka is crucial to Arsenal and plays simply but effectively. Neymar’s willingness to take on new challenges, like moving to PSG, is something I respect a lot.

What’s the best advice a coach has ever given you?
To believe in myself and build my confidence.

What’s one skill or aspect of your game you’re currently working to improve?
I’m always working on my full game, but as a winger, I’ve been focusing more on putting in quality crosses.

What does a typical training week look like for you?
Monday through Friday, I train with my team for 1.5 to 2 hours, then I hit the gym. On weekends, I play for another team to get more game time.

How do you stay motivated during tough times or after a tough loss?
I remind myself why I started and how far I’ve come. The love for the game keeps me going.

What’s your proudest accomplishment in your soccer journey so far?
Getting to play in countries like Spain, England, and now Germany—and actually performing well.

What does being part of a team mean to you?
It’s like having another family. A home away from home.

How do you balance soccer with school, work, or other commitments?
Time management is key. I use a calendar to map out my classes, work, training, and deadlines to stay organized.

Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
I watch clips of myself and listen to music—it gets me in the zone.

Do you have a favorite quote or motto that motivates you?
“Keep working, your dreams are closer than you think.”

What do you like to do when you’re not playing soccer?
I play video games like FIFA, The Division, Rainbow Six Siege, and Pokémon. I also collect Pokémon cards, soccer cards, and Pops. I run a clothing brand called Destinclothing and enjoy creating content for it.

What’s your go-to snack or meal after a match?
Probably Nature Valley bars. I don’t really have a go-to meal.

If you could play a match anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Somewhere iconic, maybe Brazil or a packed Emirates Stadium.

Where do you see your soccer journey taking you in the next few years?
I see myself in a professional setting within the next few months to a year.

What advice would you give to younger players just starting out?
Keep working—your dreams are closer than you think.

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