Playing just two seasons with the Jaguars boys varsity soccer team, senior midfielder Julian Iodice has gone from a quiet addition to one of the most impactful players on the field. Now, he closes out December as Jaguar of the Week for the week of December 8 through the 12.
This year, Iodice has stepped up with 3 goals and 2 assists in just six games, ranking top three in all attacking categories for the Jaguars. His value, however, goes far beyond the stats. Whether it is the pace he sets, the space he creates, or the composure he brings every game, Iodice has steadied the Jaguars in a season full of rebuilding and high expectations.
And he’s doing that not just at Charter, but also across the country.
Earlier this month, Julian was selected to play in the MLS NEXT U19 Uncommitted All-Star Match, one of the top youth soccer showcases in the nation. This year’s MLS Fest and Uncommitted match took place in Mesa, Arizona. The match features handpicked players based on film, scouting reports, and performance. Representing the East, Julian earned his spot.
“They watched my team’s game tape and picked the guys they felt could represent the region,” explains Iodice. “Getting to play in front of that many college coaches and being able to share that moment with the rest of the guys was just an amazing experience.”
Yet even with his impact stretching beyond Charter, his focus hasn’t drifted from home.
“Julian’s been just as great here,” says Head Coach Marc Lou-Young. “He’s one of the hardest workers on the team and one of our most creative players up front. He’s going to be key for us as we head into the district tournament.”
Even more impressive than the stats or the accolades is how he balances it all. Iodice holds a 4.9 weighted GPA, juggling Advanced Placement (AP) classes and club soccer while consistently showing up every day for his teammates.
“You just have to work hard, on the field and in class,” he notes. “It’s all about time management.”
He claims the key to success is to keep working, because time waits for no one.
Though every team has leading stat-holders, few have players like Iodice who make it their main mission to play for the right reasons and to raise the level of everyone around them.
As his final high school season plays out, the future is wide open for Iodice. However, his eyes are focused on the present.
“Whether it’s a state championship or not, I just want to make this year count.”
