The versatile U-17 USYNT member played exceptionally well at ECNL Phoenix. Helping her team to a 3-0 tourney record and an 18-3-0 overall record. Her high level of fitness resulted in the ability to lock down opposing attackers. She showed strengths in dictating the tempo of the game and creating a strong presence in the backline, with the ability to make quick transitions during counterattacks. I’ve covered a few of her matches, and she is always consistent and reliable. Elena is currently ranked #36 in the nation, #8 in CA, and #6 in position. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing her rise in the rankings as well as playing a big part in the U.S. squad at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Morocco.

She is a constant fixture on the U.S. National Team programs. Getting her first taste of the U.S. Under-14 Girls’ Regional TID Mini-Camp West in 2023. Since then, Elena has made numerous youth national teams, while winning a U-15 championship while playing internationally, getting a call-up for the U-16 team, and playing matches against the Netherlands. Also, making the U-17 training camp roster in November. The Wake Forest commit is a standout player out of Vacaville, and she definitely has a bright future with the Red, White, and Blue. Previous scouting reports noted that she is a highly rated 2027 player who is known for her versatility as a defender and midfielder. She has a high level of fitness, which results in high energy levels as well as the ability to lock down opposing attackers. Her main strength is the ability to dictate the tempo of the game. A strong presence in the backline, with the ability to make quick transitions, makes her a steadfast presence in the U.S. youth team system.

Started the game at CB and then moved into midfield later on in the game as Bay Area Surf needed and eventually got a goal. She’s incredibly talented and really showed why she has been with the Youth National Team. She has so much energy and presence on the soccer field. She can pull all the strings in midfield and lock up opposition attackers defensively. So much quality when she gets on the ball to make positive plays happen for her team.

Elena Vera played as a center back and a midfielder during this match. She is a brave, confident player who showcased to be a top player. Vera has a great touch and good decision making. Her movement off the ball is brilliant and she is tuned into every minute of the match. She is calm but confident on the ball. Vera will keep the ball moving quickly to move opponents around but also can take space when the opportunity arises. She looks to break lines and her passing is good. Off the call, you can see Vera is communicating throughout the match organizing and reading the game. Overall, Elena Vera is a great player for FC Bay Area Surf and makes an impact on the pitch.

The youth national team defensive midfielder is playing for the SF Glens USLW team. Always so tidy in possession, a true pivot offensively and exceptional ball winner.

She showed why she is ranked so highly as the Bay Area Surf midfielder not only scored a goal but really pulled the strings for her side against So Cal Blues. I’ve watched Vera on a number of occasions and she continues to impress with her game IQ, high energy and no nonsense physicality on defense.

Vera was a recent call-up to the USYNT’s U15 squad, and it is a deserved honor for a fantastic playmaking midfielder. Vera has great vision and a tremendous passing range. She can see things develop from her place in the center of the park and she can deliver a perfectly weighted ball to a running player. Her ability to split defenders with precise passes is tremendous. She’s technically very good as she is calm, composed and skilled on the ball. She can take players off the dribble, she can maneuver in tight spaces and she can turn defenders.

The Davis Legacy star moved up from No. 95 all the way to No. 5 after an impressive season that saw her earn All-Conference honors this past ECNL season. She’s supremely talented, and beyond that she has the desire for the sport and she has a mature understanding of the game as well. She shows off her supreme athleticism on and off the ball with her technical skills and her movement off the ball. Her movements are fluid, agile and athletic. She also just has a strong understanding of space. She plays balls that not many players could play, and fits them into spaces many players could not.