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Maricopa Teen Phenom Makes World Cup Qualifier Debut on His Birthday
Julian Bissette, a 16-year-old from Santa Rosa Crossing, received a birthday gift that will shape his future. After picking him up from school, his father revealed an incredible surprise: Julian has been selected to represent Saint Lucia in the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers.
This opportunity allows him to compete against teams from nearby island nations, with a potential path to the FIFA Youth World Cup hanging in the balance. Although the reality of this news is still settling in, Julian is ecstatic.
“Playing soccer was always just a hobby for me. I never imagined I’d get the chance to perform at an international level,” he shared. “It’s surreal, and I’m still trying to process it all.”
Julian, who stands at 6 feet 1 inch tall, plays as a striker and center attacking midfielder. He is dedicated to sharpening his skills: “I’ve been focusing on being more aggressive in attacking plays and winning aerial duels,” he noted.
His online performance caught the attention of FIFA scouts, leading to the life-changing phone call from his father with the good news. “We couldn’t be prouder of him. His dedication has been remarkable,” said Andre Bissette, Julian’s father.
Julian’s eligibility to play for Saint Lucia stems from his family history, as FIFA regulations require connections to the nation. Julian’s roots trace back to the Caribbean island through his father’s lineage. Despite being generations removed, the Bissette family still maintains a connection to the island, including a family farm.
Beyond soccer, Julian is eager to explore the heritage he hasn’t yet experienced. “I live in Maricopa and have one identity, but it’s fascinating to know I have such rich family history,” he explained. “This opportunity feels like a gateway to a world I’ve yet to discover.”
Saint Lucia will face off against Jamaica, El Salvador, and the Cayman Islands in this qualifying tournament, with the top team earning a spot in the 2026 U-20 World Cup in Chile. The tournament kicks off on February 7.
