Through The Lines: Justin Ellis
Through The Lines Edition Two: Justin Ellis
After a season that saw him rise across academy, MLS NEXT Pro, and U.S. Youth National Team levels, Justin Ellis is emerging as one of Orlando City’s most exciting young prospects. With standout performances at the Generation adidas Cup, a growing role at Orlando City B, and unforgettable moments both on and off the pitch, Ellis sat down to reflect on a pivotal year of development.
You’ve had a breakout year with big performances across multiple competitions. What’s this past season meant to you in terms of your growth as a player?
“It’s always my goal to improve and grow as a player and this season I was required to perform across different levels of play including international games for the national team, MLS next pro and at the Academy level, this season I was able to play consistently for different coaches with different coaching styles. Having this consistency has given me the confidence to know that I can move between different levels and perform under more challenging circumstances.”
At the Generation Adidas Cup, you really made your mark with six goals and the Golden Boot. What clicked for you during that tournament?
“I feel that my playmaking has been a big part in my game so to be able to showcase that I can also score goals in a tournament like Ga Cup was special. And the coaches just tell me of where I need to be and my teammates would give me the ball in the right area as well.”
You’ve also been stepping into the MLS NEXT Pro scene with Orlando City B. What’s been the biggest adjustment for you jumping into that level?
“The biggest adjustment from Academy to Next pro would be the decision making. Picking the right moments when to make the final pass, dribble, shot. In academy most times when I get the ball I’m always thinking to make the perfect pass or dribble threw a crowd of players but at the next pro level you have to choose the moments when to do it.”
How would you describe your style of play?
“I love to get Goals and Assists and love having the ball at my feet and having fun.”
Orlando City has developed some serious talent over the years. What’s the academy environment been like for you, and who’s helped push you the most?
“The academy here is top. There is a lot of amazing players and people. I would Javier Carrillo has pushed me the most. He was the one that brought me into the club and He always finds a way to get the best version of myself on the field and always wants more from me.”
You had that viral celebration earlier this year at MLS NEXT Fest—the burrito bite. Was that just for fun or something you planned with your teammates?
“Yeah so I scored to make it 3-0 I think vs Galaxy and then went over to celebrate with the u16 and one of them just told me to take a bite and then all the camera men just came and took a picture.”
You’ve been producing in big moments, but what are some parts of your game you’re really trying to sharpen as you prepare for that next step?
“I would say being more effective with my defensive side of my game.”
Tell us about your experiences with the USYNT. How have they helped you prepare for the next level?
“The experiences with the national team have been very special. The staff and teammates were all so welcoming to me that it made it easy to adapt quickly to the environment. And the recent tournament we just had was an unbelievable experience. I feel that the 07’ age group has been overlooked a bit so to be able to win a trophy for our nation is something I’ll never forget.”
What are some goals you’ve set for yourself going forward—whether that’s more first-team minutes, a homegrown deal, or even breaking into the youth national team?
“My goals is just to keep improving and maximize my level and to get more goals, assists and having fun.”
Ellis is a key player for Orlando City B following his breakout year. He even managed to bag two goals for the second team this past weekend. With the U20 World Cup on the horizon, it will be interesting to see if Ellis is able to work his way onto the squad. He is an exceptional player with one of the highest ceilings in the youth pool