James Blais
Class of 2026
Saint John's High School, Shrewsbury, MA
Club: New England Futbol Club (NEFC)
Teams: MLS NEXT U17/19 & USL Academy
About James Blais
My name is James Blais and I was born and raised in Massachusetts. I am Colombian American and am very proud of my heritage. Soccer has been a part of my life since before I could walk. I am excited to continue my journey as a student-athlete at the collegiate level, combining my passion for academics and athletics. Through hard work, discipline, and teamwork, I have developed the skills and determination that I’m eager to bring to a college program. I’m looking forward to pushing my limits, growing as both a competitor and an individual, and contributing to a team that values excellence on and off the field.
Spending summers playing soccer in Colombia and Spain has been an incredible opportunity to immerse myself in diverse playing styles and cultures, enhancing my skills and game awareness. This past summer in Washington, DC, I trained with The George Washington University men's soccer team, sharpening my abilities alongside high-level collegiate players. Additionally, I competed with a men’s team composed of former professional and Division 1 athletes, which pushed me to elevate my game and develop as a player in a highly competitive environment.
Academics & Extracurriculars
I am currently a junior at Saint John’s High School, a private catholic high school in Shrewsbury, MA, where I am a recipient of the Salem Scholars Scholarship. I maintain an increasingly rigorous course load including AP and honors classes. At school, I have served as Captain of the Woodworking Club, Team Manager of the Black Affinity Soccer Team, and member of the Investment Club and Spanish Club. I have also participated in several community service projects throughout Worcester County.
Outside of school, my favorite hobby is fresh water fishing. I have also been a summer volunteer with the Blackstone Valley Soccer Program and work as a referee for local youth soccer leagues. In addition, I have interned over the summers at a boutique IT Consulting firm based in DC where I support clients with their IT support needs. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family and traveling internationally. In college, I plan to pursue a degree in business and technology.
Club Soccer Experience
I have been playing organized soccer for the majority of my life as its is my greatest passion. I have spent the last two summers playing against collegiate players and have served as Captain of my soccer clubs U20 USL Academy team. This year I will play with the U17 NEFC MLS Next team where I hope to continue as our leading goal scorer and assist maker. In 2025, we place 1st in the Northeast Region and qualified for the MLS Next Playoffs, where we were semifinalists. I am a creative and technical player, where the majority of my recent club experience has me playing as an attacking player as a winger, striker, or attacking midfielder.
At NEFC, I am currently coached by Juan Gonzales. Last year I was coached by a former Trinidad & Tobago National Player, Anthony Rougier. I am also mentored by my NEFC U15 coach, John Hablitz and my uncle who played D1 College and semi-professional soccer, Fabio Andrade.