image via Geocites

One of the originators of Major League Soccer, El Diablo was capable of the unexpected with a left foot that was only rivaled by Kansas City’s Preki.  In a time when MLS’ life was dependent on big names like Donadoni, Valderrama and Novak, Marco Etcheverry’s blood, sweat, tears and craziness could all be seen in 90 minutes on any given weekend.

Now settled in Virginia after 12 years in America, Etcheverry has been named an Assistant coach with the US Under-20 team in their preparation for the 2009 U-20 World Cup in Egypt. (Another great job by US Soccer and Thomas Rongen considering Wilmer Cabrera, Oscar Pareja and Peter Novak are involved from the 17′s up through the 23′s)  With growing up in the Tahuichi system and playing experience in Bolivia, Spain, Chile and Ecuador, what better role model and teacher could these young, talented, sheltered American kids have?