Three promising soccer talents from Martha’s Vineyard United have earned spots in the Olympic Development Program’s upcoming Florida showcase, a prestigious gateway that connects youth players with national scouts and collegiate coaches.
A Journey Shaped by Family and Ferry Rides
Thales Fernandes, a native of the island who began kicking a ball at six, now operates as a left‑attacker, drawing inspiration from his father’s steady encouragement. Rafael Assis, who relocated from Brazil in 2021, overcame early nerves to find his place on a local team, while Mateus Deassis, equally comfortable in attack and midfield, credits his dad for sparking his love of the game by buying him gear and sharing Brazil matches.
The families of the three athletes have been vocal about the children’s humility and relentless work ethic. Lena Queirós, Fernandes’s mother, and Aline Lucas, Assis’s mother, have watched their sons train on the island’s limited fields, noting how each loss is treated as a lesson rather than a setback.
From January 14 to 18, the ODP event in Florida will pit these youngsters against a national pool of prospects, where scouts and collegiate coaches will assess their technical ability, tactical awareness, and mental resilience. The competition represents a rare chance for the island’s talent to be seen on a broader stage.
Tommy Geis, technical director for Massachusetts Youth Soccer, highlighted the logistical hurdles these players face, explaining that regular ferry trips are essential for extra practice and exposure — a reality that underscores both the community’s dedication and the island’s geographic constraints.
All three athletes share a common dream: to turn professional. Their approach — embracing the ‘art of losing’ and extracting lessons from every defeat — reflects a maturity beyond their years, promising not only personal growth but also a bright future for youth soccer on Martha’s Vineyard.