Ellis McLoughlin in 20 questions

Below are 20 questions I sent Ellis to give everyone an idea of what he's like as a person. Also I thought it would be nice to give him a chance to thank some people. I've personally seen Ellis play in probably 20 to 30 games, including all the games in Portland/Manchester Cup, State Cup, and some games at regionals the last couple years.

My personal opinion on him as a player. He's blazing fast, strong, good with both feet, and most of all has a great work ethic on the field. I think someday we'll see him either in the pros, on the Mens National Team, or minimum beating defenders in college.

Ellis..... from myself and I'm positive all of the soccer fans in Washington, best of luck in Florida at residency. Try to always remember to have fun and play hard. To enjoy the time you have playing soccer, and always dream big. Set your goals high and work to achieve them, and most of all remember to be yourself.

From his parents.....We as his parents are very proud of this accomplishment and know that he will do well there. It is bittersweet for us because we have always enjoyed going to the games and interacting with the team and the parents. We have great respect for the Crossfire program and what they have done for Ellis.

1. When did you start playing soccer?
I started playing on a local team when Iwas 5

2. Is going to residency a dream come true for you?
I didn't really think about it until after the National camp I went to in May when I scored 5 goals in 4 games. I knew my chances were really good after that.

3. When do you feel like you started getting real attention from the
National Team Staff and knew that you may be invited to residency? I knew after the camp in May because it was the first camp for me and I played my way on to the starting line-up after one game.

4. Have you always played forward?
No with the state team i played mid field but now my only position is forward

5. Favorite Movie?
Rush Hour 2

6. Favorite type of music?
Rap

7. Would you like to thank anyone for helping you get to this point in your soccer career?
Ya a bunch of people. My parents first of all they have been huge in my soccer career, and 2 guys that have always been there Bernie James and Brian Klein without then 2 I would have never been here. Also Greg Lambert and everyone on my team, Crossfire, I love you guys.

8. Of the players you've played with, do you have a favorite to play with or really enjoy how they play?
I love playing with Estebon up top, he always works hard and never lets down.

9. Best soccer experience you've had so far in soccer?
M y best soccer experience so far would have to be going to Hong Kong for the Man U Cup World Finals. We didn't have one bad game when we were there and I had lots of fun

10. Favorite soccer player and favorite soccer team on the professional level.
My favorite player is Wayne Rooney and my favorite team is Arsenal

11. If you play pro someday, would you like to play MLS or in Europe?
If Iam pro I would play In Europe because there is better competition and a lot more money.

12. How hard was it to make the choice to leave home and go to Bradenton?
It was really hard because I didn't want to just leave everybody behind but I know its for the best and I knew that I would also get the same competition with Crossfire if I stayed.

13. If you go to college later for soccer, do you have a dream school you'd like to attend and play for ?
If I go to college I would want to play for University of North Carolina because I've always liked that school.

14. Favorite Food?
Favorite food is mexican food

15. Dream car you'd like to own?
My dream car is a red Bentley

16. Any comments you'd like to make about your club team?
Ya just thanks cause without them I would never be here and just keep winning without me.

17. Strengths as a player?
I can use both feet and im fast

18. Do you hope someday to play for the Mens National Team?
Ya Ido that's one of my main goals as a player right now

19. Do you own and ipod?
Ya I do im getting the battery fixed right now though

20. Have the parents bought you that much needed computer or laptop for residency?
Ya I have a mac powerbook g4 12" It's awesome.

Thanks Ellis and of course his parents. Best of luck and I'll definitely keep track of you and email you from time to time. Please keep everyone in Washington up to date and have fun and play hard.