Interview #5- Julius James

A veteran defender for FC Motown, Julius James has played for teams all around America! He also has 18 international caps to his name for his home country, Trinidad and Tobago. A true leader on and off the pitch, Julius is well regarded for his physical and mental ability.

1. How did you feel after scoring against LA Galaxy on your MLS debut?

That feeling was incredible. Scoring a goal gives you a thrill especially if ur a defender, but scoring on your DEBUT as defender is out of this world. It’s incredible to think about it till this day. Someone took a picture on the field, of me praying on my knees, giving thanks after the game, and someone took the original picture and made a painting of it. It’s all like a dream. I couldn’t have written it myself, because I was on the bench and 2 center back got injured that day which made way for me to play a great game and score on my debut. I want to note that if I had a poor mentality and negative attitude, that I doubt things would work out that way. 

2. Being in a trade with the likes of Dwayne De Rosario, what was your reaction to be traded away from Toronto?
It broke my heart. Being traded is something that you could never get accustomed to... It was my rookie year and I wasn’t prepared for it, I was just settling in to a new city and getting my feet under me, and boom I’m gone, Into a new system. It’s pretty lame, the uprooting and unsettling process is arduous especially if you have a family. 
Looking back, being traded for him was a HUGE honor. I have always looked up to Dwayne De Rosario, he was one of the best attackers to ever pass through the MLS, Ever!!!

3. What have you learned from playing for different teams?
I have learnt sooo much, and I have made close friends on almost every team I went to, which I am extremely blessed to have. The bonding came easy. But I’d say I learn more about coaches, and how not to be when/if I become a coach. I learnt that the player is the most important asset and they just want to be treated as such, most times to get the best out of them. Not necessarily with material things but mentally. They are the ones that are making and have made the most sacrifices, everything and everyone else are just supporting cast. 

4. What would be your advice for players who want to become pro?
Don’t listen to anyone that doesn’t support your dream. Find people/ organizations that will, if not encourage yourself and dive deep into practice, dive deep into practice nevertheless. It’s said that it takes thousands of hrs of practice to become an elite in your field of sport. Most of these hours are spent by yourself with the ball... 

5. How did you like your time in the NASL?
I enjoyed every stage and every league I played in. MLS, NASL, USL, TTPL AND NPSL they all brought something different but something valuable, and I’m grateful for that. 

The NASL was one of my favs because it’s where I won my first North American Trophy. It was with the San Antonio Scorpions, now called San Antonio FC playing in USL under new ownership (Spurs ownership group). That was huge for me because many people have played their whole careers without winning a single big trophy. I feel blessed to have won 3 trophies in 2 different countries. One in the NASL and 2 in Trinidad and Tobago Pro league. And just to give reference to how difficult it is to win one, on my team we had Densil Theobald great trini international player, (legendary actually)and World Cup participant, absolute baller and long time veteran of the game and of the TTPL. He was on my team when he won his first ever TTPL trophy with North East Star, this was after playing most of his career seeking it. This was just 2 years ago. 

6. Favorite snack?
I move fruit, soursop, pineapple, watermelon, oranges tangerines, there are some trini ones that are just soooo good. 

7. Favorite song?
Many favorite songs, but...
Koffee- Toast
Koffee- Rapture 
Damian Marley- Speak Life

8. If you could travel back in time, where would you go?
If I could go back in time,
I would go back to when I was at columbus crew 11/12. I had the opportunity to go see President Obama and I messaged the coach to ask him if I could go because it was during practice and I would have missed it. The coach told me that I couldn’t go. I would go! I would take the fine and gone still go! SIGH!!!

9. Best player you’ve played against?
Best player there are a good few
But Ronaldinho AC Milan tops them all.

10. In three words describe yourself?
Genuine
Passionate 
Humble 

11. How was your time been with FC Motown?
The owners Dan and Scott were instrumental in making me feel at home here in NJ. I am grateful to them for allowing me to spread my wings. It was good to have team owners that were genuine towards their players. It was good because Scott especially is a very personable owner while Dan ran all the stats.

12. Toughest obstacle you’ve faced in your playing career?
Myself.

13. What are your goals for the future?
Spend more time with the people I love. To gain a deeper bond and relationship with God. To help more and more people, especially children.

Establish my Foundation @canbouplay internationally.

To become the best and elite in whichever field/fields I choose when I’m done playing. Travel the world and to take my family with me especially my kids. 

14. Do you have any hobbies outside of soccer, if so what are they?
Not particularly, I’m figuring that out. Starting to like table tennis a bit. 
I do enjoy giving back and helping others. Not gonna lie. Does that count as a hobby?

(Yes, yes it does. In fact it’s a hobby more people should do!)- Chris (author)

15. Common misconception about being a pro?
It’s an amazing life...

It only is amazing if you embrace the downs as much as you embrace and appreciate the ups...there are many downs, many that some players just don’t come back from. 


16. Your biggest role model?
My parents- they are 2 of the most incredible people I have ever met. It just took me this long to recognize, but I’m truly grateful, especially to have them as my counsel...

17. Any last words for the readers?
Try God.
Blessings flow to all.
Remember not to be too hard on yourself.
Also remember failure is our biggest teacher. Don’t be afraid of it, learn from it.
Evolve.
Discipline=key.

We are beyond happy to have interviewed Julius, truly a great man. Very inspiring and humble, Julius is the type of person people look up to. We want to thank Julius for doing the interview with us and we wish him the best of luck in his future!


Written by Chris Dailey
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Photo via   https://www.npsl.com/9018/​