Ambassador Balboa
Posted by: El Rapido on 1/3/2004
Denver, CO - With his retired playing jersey in the closet, former U.S. and Colorado Rapids defender Marcelo Balboa on Wednesday was named Soccer Ambassador for both the Denver-based club and Kroenke Sports Enterprises -- owner of the team.
"We are very excited to welcome Marcelo back to the club that saw him consummate his soccer career in the United States." Rapids executive Charlie Wright said. "Celo will bring a wealth of soccer experience and recognition to our organization at the local, national and international level, and add to our continuous efforts within the community to promote the sport of soccer."
Balboa, who officially retired from the game on April 3 of 2003, represented the U.S. in three World Cups (1990, 1994, and 1998). His work as an ambassador will keep him busy attempting to forge relationships in the Denver area, which includes non-profit and community-related organizations.
As a KSE representative, Balboa hopes to be a key figure in building a soccer- specific stadium for the Rapids and other area clubs to call home.
"It is great to be able to be back with the club that gave me so much during my playing years," Balboa said. "I'm excited for the opportunity and it is an honor to be able to help the franchise and soccer in Colorado as well as the rest of the country as an Ambassador of the sport with my former team for years to come."
Balboa joined the Rapids in 1996 as an allocation player. He scored the first- ever goal for the team in their first-ever victory on April 21, 1996.
A five-time MLS All-Star, Balboa made 151 appearances for Colorado. In May of 2001, he became the first defender in MLS history to post 20 goals and 20 assists for his career. As a member of the U.S. men's national side, the former back-liner earned 128 caps, making 118 starting appearances.
CREDIT TO: Quinn33
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