Phoenix Rising FC pays tribute to late 10-year-old soccer sensation Julian Delgadillo Castro at annual fundraising event

PHOENIX, ARIZONA: In a heartwarming event during the Phoenix Rising FC’s eighth Annual Holidash Fun Run fundraiser, the soccer community came together to honor the late Julian Delgadillo Castro, 10.

According to the AZ Family, the budding soccer star, esteemed as the team captain and goalkeeper for PRFC West Valley 13B Copa, tragically died on November 27. He was commemorated with a minute's applause during the event. 

Executive Director of the PRFC Youth Soccer reiterates Julian Delgadillo Castro's unforgettable legacy

Chris Brown, Executive Director of the PRFC Youth Soccer program, expressed, "Of all the joys we have in our organization, sometimes you have a blip and a hurdle and a very tough loss."

Just a week before his untimely departure, Julian Delgadillo Castro showcased his talent by transitioning from the net to the field, contributing significantly by scoring the winning goal.

According to Phoenix Rising officials, he had been unwell in the days leading up to the game. Although he had been to the hospital and discharged, his condition deteriorated during the match, leading to his readmittance the following day.

Tragically, he succumbed to sepsis that same night.

Rosa Castro's tribute to Julian Delgadillo Castro and the Phoenix Rising's commitment to his dreams

Julian Delgadillo Castro’s grieving mother, Rosa Castro, shared, "I’m getting through it. It’s very, very hard. But these little boys behind me, there’s his team. And I feel like they’re my second family. They’re my second family because each and every single one of them loved Julian and they still love him." 

Holding a cherished framed picture of her son, Rosa spoke of Julian's deep passion for soccer, noting, "That was his life. He slept, he breathed, he ate--he did every single thing for soccer. I truly, truly believe that he was going to be a pro star one day. And his love for soccer was just the most, most purest love."

She further noted, "This jersey is from the Phoenix Rising. They’re honoring Julian as a pro. That’s what he wanted to be when he grew up, and that’s what he is now. He’s a professional player."

The fundraiser, a poignant tribute to Julian, garnered over $80,000 in donations, dedicated to supporting aspiring young athletes within the Phoenix Rising FC Youth Soccer program.

Looking forward, Tibor Pelle, Director of College Advising and Financial Aid programs at Phoenix Rising FC Youth Soccer, revealed plans to establish the Julian Castro Foundation, aiming to empower more young talents with dreams of pursuing competitive soccer and a professional career.