Eastside Catholic’s Cayden Pili Emerging as a Versatile Playmaker

By Erin Reid

Sammamish, WA — Eastside Catholic may have a new star in the making. Sophomore athlete Cayden Pili (Class of 2026, 5’10, 175 pounds) has quickly become a name to watch in Washington’s 3A football scene.If the last name sounds familiar, it should—Pili is the younger brother of WNBA standout Alissa Pili of the Los Angeles Sparks. And just like his sister, Cayden is carving out his own path, fueled by raw athleticism and an undeniable competitive edge.Pili, who began playing football at just six years old, transferred this year from Diamond High School in Anchorage, Alaska, where he previously starred at quarterback.

Class of 26' ATH Cayden Pili.

At Diamond, he led his team to a perfect 4-0 start before a broken foot cut his season short. Now at Eastside Catholic, he’s adjusting to a new system under head coach Dominic Daste, whose tough-love approach has helped shape Pili into a versatile contributor.

Eastside Catholic runs a spread offense with a balanced 50/50 run-pass attack, and Pili has been asked to do it all. He’s currently seeing snaps at running back and quarterback, while also holding down a starting role at safety. Through two weeks, the Crusaders are 2-0 in Washington’s 3A Division, and Pili’s versatility has been a major factor.

Pili making a play in open field.

“Cayden is just a pure athlete,” Daste said. “Anytime he touches the ball, something can happen. On defense, he takes pride in being physical—he’s got that head-hunter mentality.”

While Pili’s recruitment has been quiet so far, he’s clear about his long-term goals: he wants to play quarterback at the next level. The upcoming stretch of games could prove pivotal in putting him on the map. Matchups against O’Dea, Roosevelt, and Seattle Prep will give Pili the opportunity to put quality film together against Division I-caliber defensive talent.

For now, he’s focused on mastering the playbook and continuing to elevate his game. But one thing is certain: Cayden Pili is a name that Washington high school football fans—and college recruiters—will be hearing more often in the coming years.