Today we’d like to introduce you to Julio Thompson.
Hi Julio, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I fell in love with soccer at the age of five while growing up in São Paulo, Brazil, where Futebol isn’t just a sport — it’s part of our identity. After school, the neighborhood became our stadium. We played barefoot, using a worn ball and rocks as goalposts, learning creativity, resilience, and joy through the game.
As a young adult, I spent two years playing semi‑professionally in Mexico before returning to the United States, where my coaching journey began at age 24. Over the years, I’ve coached youth teams, women’s teams, pickup groups, and individual players. What started with a small local team called Action Soccer evolved into Guardians of Rage FC and ultimately Texas Rage FC.
Today, I’m proud to serve as the first APSL Commissioner in the State of Texas, leading the Trinity Conference while also co‑owning and coaching Texas Rage FC. Through coaching, camps, and player development, my mission remains simple: share the love of soccer and create opportunities for others to experience the community, growth, and lifelong friendships the game has given me.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s a life journey. It brings both smooth and rough roads, but the journey is worth it.
But those struggles became the foundation. They sharpened the purpose and the passion I have for the beautiful game.
They help me build character, discipline, and a deeper appreciation for every small victory.
The rough roads taught me patience and resiliency. The moments of uncertainty taught me to lean on my faith, just like an invisible strength, steady and unwavering, like a lighthouse guiding my boat safely to shore.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I’m most proud of being part of soccer’s growth in the United States. Over the years, I’ve worn many hats—player, coach, organizer, marketer, recruiter, trainer, commissioner, and club owner. Every role has shaped my understanding of the game and deepened my commitment to the people who play it.
Soccer—futebol—saved my life. It kept me focused, disciplined, and grounded when I needed it most. Now, it’s my turn to give back. My mission is to support working student‑athletes who hunger for success, who just need the right environment and the right opportunity to rise.
My focus has never changed: creating pathways for others through the game. What sets me apart is simple—I never stopped loving soccer itself. Whether it’s a youth practice, a pickup match, or a semi‑professional match day, I bring the same passion, energy, and respect for the sport. Soccer has given me so much, and I’m committed to giving back to it every chance I get.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I’m lucky to have met so many like‑minded staff, athletes, and fans who share the same passion and vision for this sport. It truly takes a community to build something meaningful, and our journey proves that success is never achieved alone. As a non‑profit soccer club, every step forward is powered by the people who believe in what we’re doing — the volunteers who give their time, the athletes who give their heart, and the supporters who stand with us. Their commitment is the real foundation of Texas Rage F.C., and it’s the reason we continue to grow with purpose and pride.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://apslsoccer.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/texas_rage_fc/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasRageF.C
- Other: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/organizations/texas-rage-football-club
