Jocelyn Chinea: Setting the standard for Houston Soccer

In the 67th minute of Houston’s 4-1 victory against Texas, a crossed ball was punched away by the Longhorns’ goalkeeper. Despite being in her own half, senior forward/defender Jocelyn Chinea sprinted all the way to UT’s half of the pitch, launching a powerful strike that went just wide of the goal. 

“I think she is undeniable with her energy, her work ethic and pace, so it’s contagious,” coach Ben Williams said. “Work ethic is contagious, whether its good work ethic or bad work ethic, and that’s controllable for us. And that is very important. That’s a non-negotiable standard. She does a great job.”

While most players in soccer have a set position/role they play on the pitch, Chinea’s versatility helps her stand out from the pack. Capable of playing anywhere from forward to defender, this adaptability is what makes her a consistent starter for the team.

“She’s one of those players you can play almost all over the field, so she’s kind of that utility piece that you need to see in soccer teams,” assistant coach Izzie Vaccari said. “We started her up at winger, and now we have her playing as a wing-back in the back line. So, being able to play almost everywhere on the field is a big piece.”

Chinea places her trust in her coaching staff to help her become the best player that she can be.

“Do my position 100% no matter if I’m at forward or if I’m at defense,” Chinea said. “I’m just here to do what I’m asked to do. And if that’s at 100%, then that’s what I’m going to give.”

This mentality, however, was not a product of playing soccer. It developed beyond the pitch through her upbringing and family life.

Chinea’s father’s own story taught him the value of hustle, a lesson he passed on to her from a young age.

“My dad, being born in Puerto Rico, has always been a hustler, coming from the small streets of Puerto Rico and moving here [to the U.S.] at a young age,” Chinea said. “My dad has always taught me to work hard and play hard, and that has been instilled in me.”

That mindset has played a significant role in Chinea’s development and success as an athlete.

Since arriving in Houston in 2025, Chinea has elevated her game. Her blistering pace has helped her get past opposition players and open up the offense, averaging 2.9 successful dribbles per game. Since moving to a wing-back role, her defense has been sharp, averaging 4.6 ball recoveries per game.

With Georgia, she helped the Bulldogs win an SEC tournament in 2023 and made the Academic Honor-Roll in 2023 and 2024.

Even during her high school playing days at Tampa Catholic High School, she excelled, capping her tenure by winning the 2022-23 MaxPreps Soccer Player of the Year Award in her senior year, with 16 goals and 11 assists and a regional final appearance.

As the Cougars navigate the middle of Big 12 conference play, Chinea has continued to play a key role in helping Houston earn five points through its first six matchups, placing the team 12th in the standings. The Cougars will need to stay within the top 12 to secure a spot in the Big 12 Tournament this November in Fort Worth and Waco, Texas.

Carrying the hustle her father helped her develop, Chinea has embraced the challenge of conference play and aims to help lead the Cougars back to tournament season.

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