Former PHS Student Has His Professional Debut

From Witter Field to playing in front of thousands all over the world, former PHS student, junior Oliver Tan is making strides in the soccer world.
Tan made his debut with professional club FC Familicão on Jan. 26.
The club is located in Vila Nova de Famalicão, outside of Porto, Portugal. The club plays in the Primeira Liga, the highest tier of Portuguese soccer, according to their website.
“It’s been a huge honor to join this team, it’s a big step for me as a player,” Tan said.
Before moving to Portugal to pursue his soccer career, Tan grew up in Piedmont and attended PUSD schools through his freshman year.
“I always have loved Piedmont and my friends there, it’s always great to come back and visit,“ Tan said.
Before signing with FC Familicão, Tan played for the U.S. Youth National Team and will continue to in the future.
“That was really cool for me, especially at first it was a great honor and I felt proud to represent my country, and I am working to play in the World Cup in 2026,” Tan said.
This past September, Tan played in three international friendly matches and two other matches last May.
“It was super fun to travel and play against players from all around the world; it was a great opportunity,” he said.
Tan said that he is the youngest player on the team as well as the only American.
“It was a little hard coming in at first but the team has been so welcoming and I’m already close with a lot of my teammates,” he said “I’m proud to be the only American on the team, showing these Portuguese players that the U.S. produces good players too.”
Tan said he is looking forward to the future of his career and what is to come.
“This is a huge step and I can’t wait for what’s to come. My ultimate goal is to sign a professional contract for a big club and play in the World Cup,” he said.