An International Talent with a Passion for Soccer

Alexandre Ethan Bertholon, a talented Class of 2025 winger/striker, has earned a spot on the prestigious EXACT 11 Watchlist, recognizing him as one of the most promising young soccer players in the region. Standing at 5’11”, Alexandre brings a unique blend of skills and experience to the field, combining his French and Cameroonian heritage with a global soccer education. Currently residing in Singapore, he plays for Balestier Khalsa FC, the highest professional tier in the country, while attending the United World College of South East Asia (UWCSEA).

Early Beginnings and Achievements

Alexandre’s soccer journey began at a young age and quickly blossomed into a series of remarkable achievements that set him apart from his peers. He first showcased his potential at the tender age of eight, winning the SingaCup, Asia’s premier international youth football tournament. This early taste of success fueled his passion for the game and set the stage for a series of triumphs in youth soccer competitions across Asia.

Among his notable accomplishments, Alexandre’s 3rd place finish at the World Youth Cup – Gothia Cup 2019 (U12) stands out as a significant milestone. The Gothia Cup, widely regarded as the world’s largest and most international youth soccer tournament, provided Alexandre with a platform to demonstrate his skills against top-tier international competition. His performance was a testament to his technical prowess, creativity on the field, and ability to excel under pressure.

Alexandre’s success continued with a string of victories, including multiple first-place finishes in the SingaCup, Royal Selangor Cup, JSSL Super League, and the Singapore Champions Cup. These achievements highlight not only his individual talent but also his ability to thrive in a team environment, a trait that has defined his soccer career.

Key Strengths and Playing Style

As a winger/striker, Alexandre is known for his speed, agility, and tactical intelligence. His ability to navigate the field with ease, coupled with his creative playmaking skills, makes him a constant threat to opposing defenses. “Having the ball at my feet opens up my creativity,” Alexandre explains. “Playing with a team is more enjoyable, as the feeling of winning with a team is greater than the feeling of winning as an individual.”

His coaches at Balestier Khalsa FC and UWCSEA Dragons have often praised his vision on the field, his ability to find the back of the net, and his knack for creating scoring opportunities for his teammates. Alexandre’s dynamic style of play allows him to adapt to various positions, making him a versatile asset to any team. His love for the game is evident in his relentless pursuit of excellence, both in practice and during matches.

Academic Pursuits and Leadership

Beyond his athletic talents, Alexandre is also dedicated to his academic pursuits. At UWCSEA, a non-award or honor school, he has achieved the NYAA (National Youth Achievement Award) Silver Level, demonstrating his commitment to personal growth and leadership. Alexandre’s ability to balance rigorous academic requirements with his soccer commitments speaks volumes about his discipline and time management skills, qualities that will undoubtedly serve him well as he transitions to collegiate soccer.

Looking Ahead: College Aspirations

Alexandre’s aspirations extend beyond his current achievements, as he looks forward to continuing his soccer journey at the collegiate level in the United States. He has expressed interest in several top universities, including South Carolina, North Carolina Chapel Hill, North Carolina State, University of Massachusetts Amherst, University of Connecticut, University of Michigan, Syracuse, and University of Indiana Bloomington.

Why Soccer? A Deep-rooted Passion

For Alexandre, soccer is more than just a sport; it is a way of life. “The thrill you get from scoring a goal and being able to celebrate with your teammates is like no other feeling,” he reflects. “I am a very competitive guy, and playing a sport like this boosts my adrenaline, especially when I’m winning.”

His passion for soccer is driven by the joy of playing the game, the camaraderie with teammates, and the support from fans. “The amount of people that love the sport makes me love it more, as I have people supporting me and people who enjoy watching me play,” Alexandre notes. This passion fuels his desire to continually improve, push his limits, and achieve new milestones.

A Promising Future Ahead

As Alexandre Ethan Bertholon continues to make strides in his soccer career, his selection to the EXACT 11 Watchlist is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and immense potential. With his eyes set on collegiate soccer and beyond, Alexandre is poised to make a significant impact wherever he plays. His journey is a remarkable example of how passion, perseverance, and a love for the beautiful game can shape a young athlete’s path to success.