Rhea Chan
Rhea Chan: Bridging Bay Area Roots with Philippine Pride
Let’s start from the top — tell us about the person behind the name. Where are you from, and what’s Rhea like when she’s not in boots or on the pitch? My name is Rhea Chan, and I’m from the Bay Area. When I’m not in boots or on the pitch, you’d probably find me to be a pretty chill person and a frequent napper. I’m definitely a glass-half-full kind of person—always seeking out happiness and positive energy in whatever’s happening around me. Every love story has a beginning. What first sparked your connection with football, and when did you realise this was more than just a game for you? When I first started playing, it was because my older sister was involved in the game, and I was following her lead. Given how hyper I was as a kid, letting me run around a field was probably my parents' smartest move to tire me out—along with several other sports I was doing at the time. To be honest, it was more than just a game to me when I got to college. Initially, it was just something I was decent at and a gateway to a good school. But once preseason hit, I realized this game was a real challenge. As competition and pressure mounted, I had to study the game and prove myself every day. During that time, I realized I was playing for passion and for myself—not for anything else. I could have quit, and I used to say I wanted to, but I couldn’t bring myself to do it because I loved the sport and the feeling I got every time I stepped on the field. You’ve taken your game across borders and worn a few different crests along the way. Walk us through that journey — which teams and countries have shaped you, and which experience left the deepest mark? Playing in the Philippines and traveling internationally for tournaments and friendlies has broadened my experience as a player in the best way possible. Being exposed to all types of players and playing styles has tested my game IQ and pushed me to elevate my performance. Playing teams in Vietnam was a rude awakening. At the time, I was playing for Manila Diggers, and we got annihilated by every team. It was one of the most humbling experiences ever—but also one of the best bonding experiences I’ ve had with teammates. Amid all the chaos, I scored my first international goal—a moment filled with so many emotions I’ll always remember. Playing for the Philippines against South Korea left the deepest mark on me. It was my debut, and I’ve never experienced so many emotions in one game. I felt immense pride to be on the field, but also a new sense of responsibility to represent everyone I love. It became more than just trying to have a good game.
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Describe your game — who is Rhea Arcenal Chan when the whistle blows? How would you define your presence on the pitch? When the whistle blows, I definitely put on a different persona than what my family and friends are used to. I’m not afraid to go into tackles and fight for the ball. Typically, I’m not a conservative player, as I take a lot of risks moving up and down the pitch. I enjoy being bold, and although I might not look like the nicest player to opponents, I always leave everything out on the pitch. As soon as the game ends, I go right back to my normal self. There’s the game the world sees, and then there’s everything that happens behind the curtain. What’s a part of your journey that’s built you in silence — the unseen moments that made you stronger? I really enjoy this question. I think there are so many unseen moments that have made every player stronger in their careers. Personally, I need a lot of mental breaks away from the game. Whether it's reading, journaling, or going on coffee runs, all of it contributes to my performance. My college experience made me mentally tougher. I had to adjust quickly and learn that no one was going to hold my hand or feel sorry for me—even through sickness and injury. I’ve developed my own system for self-care, understanding what brings me peace and keeps me grounded. By now, I’ve probably been yelled at in every way imaginable. Over time, I’ve realized that all criticism—constructive or unhelpful—has strengthened my belief in my own physical and mental abilities. Everyone has their rituals — those little game day non-negotiables. What are yours? Boots, tape, music, mindset — what locks you in? Rituals are tricky for me. I try not to psych myself out by having too many before matches. Before I leave for the game, I have to clean my room and shower—or at least wash my face—to feel refreshed. On the way, I typically play instrumental or lo-fi music. As game time gets closer, I switch to blasting Flo Milli and old Kendrick Lamar while watching highlight clips to get hyped. I tell myself I just have to beat the player in front of me and play like my youth club coach is watching. What’s the next chapter you’re chasing in the game? Any short-term goals or personal milestones you’ve got your eyes on right now? I want to push myself to be the player younger me wouldn’t recognize. I constantly try to learn new skills or enhance my IQ by learning from those around me. My goal is to grow while still loving the game. Whatever opportunities come my way, I’ll gladly take them if they help me grow as a player and person. I’d also really love the chance to play in the AFC or attend more international tournaments. Off the pitch, who are you? What keeps you grounded, inspired — any hobbies or passions outside of football that we wouldn’t expect? Off the field, I have a passion for exploring new places and trying new foods—honestly, I was meant to be a mukbanger in another life, and I think all my friends would agree. In recent years, I’ve gotten into reading and learning things just for fun. My curiosity has led me down all sorts of rabbit holes, from conspiracies to academic subjects. Thankfully, my family and friends have kept me grounded through it all. Whether it’s a coffee study session or a trip to the arcade, these experiences have been essential for my peace of mind.
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Women’s football in the Philippines is in a moment — there’s growth, energy, movement. What excites you most about where it’s headed, and where do you think it still needs to grow? Football in the Philippines is definitely heading in the right direction, and I’m so excited to see how players will grow and compete in future years. It’s great to see clubs becoming more competitive—this was a vital area that needed strengthening to advance the game in the country. The PFF is still a new league, so it naturally has some kinks to work out and organizational improvements to make. But it’s obvious that many people are trying to elevate the league, and I can only imagine how amazing it could become. Although I’ve only been here for about a year, I feel blessed to be part of something that holds so much potential and opportunity for players. To close us out — what would you say to the people who’ve been in your corner throughout this journey? Any words for the fans, friends, or family that keep you going? I feel incredibly blessed and lucky to have had a strong support system throughout this journey. Receiving good luck texts from my mom and dad before matches is truly a privilege, and I genuinely feel so loved by everyone who’s ever wished me the best. In hard times and tough moments on the pitch, everyone’s encouragement has kept me going and reminded me to play for myself and for those around me. I want to thank everyone who’s ever had faith in me. A lot of people know it wasn’t easy for me to get to where I am now, so for those who have helped or inspired me—I am truly grateful.