CARSON, Calif. - Soccer has long been a dream for Jorge Flores. So when Chivas USA provided an opportunity for the Anaheim teenager, he went for it.
Now, he's realized that dream as Flores is a full-fledged member of Chivas USA.
The last player standing from 2,000 hopefuls who tried out for Sueno MLS earlier this year, Flores turned his two-week trial into a full-time job. With determination and support from his family, Flores said he achieved his dreams of playing professionally.
But he's far from content.
"This is an opportunity and I need to take advantage of it," Flores said. "This is what I do for a living now. That's why I'm here."
The 17-year-old has yet to play in a regular-season match with Chivas USA but was part of the club's recent two-match swing through New York and Kansas City. Flores did not play in either match but was in uniform and on the bench for both games.
Teammates have spoken highly of Flores, both for the youngster's skill and resolve.
"Jorge has done really well for himself," midfielder Jesse Marsch said. "The thing I've said about that I like the most is he comes out, he's not intimidated by the atmosphere and he comes and shows his qualities. By that I mean he competes every day, he fights for balls, he's into it."
From the start, Flores stood out. He advanced smoothly from the initial rounds of Sueno MLS and quickly became an asset. At 17, Flores is talented and young enough to groom into a serviceable player.
The grooming process took a giant leap forward when Flores accompanied Chivas USA's under-19 side to a weeklong trip to Guadalajara. The young Red-and-White played a total of four matches, and Flores responded yet again. Flores had two goals against Chivas de Guadalajara's Segunda Division side, assisted in a 1-1 draw with Atlas' second division side and had another goal in a 5-4 win against a Tecos squad comprised of reserve players.
When he returned, Flores began training with Chivas USA's first team. From the start, it has gone smoothly, Flores said.
"Ever since I got here, I've been treated well and now that I'm a part of the team I feel very comfortable," he said.
Marsch said the youngster has the right attitude and approach.
"You get so many young guys that come around that you just take them in and see what they're all about and they try and prove themselves," Marsch said. "Jorge has done a good job of earning guys' respect day after day after day because he comes and works hard and fights for every ball and he's not a bad soccer player. It's been good for him."
Flores has played all over the field for Chivas USA. He's been a forward and midfielder. On Saturday, Flores started at left back in a reserve-laden friendly in Sacramento. Flores had an assist in a 5-1 Chivas USA win.
Chivas USA has given Flores a shot and coaches said the player has to take the next step.
"He's a young player who has some potential. It's up to him how far he's going to take it," Chivas USA coach Preki said.
If Flores succeeds with Chivas USA and pays dividends for Chivas USA, his family will play an even greater role than they've done so already.
"They helped me realize my dream of becoming a professional and now I just have to try and work hard to get some playing time," Flores said of his family. "They're very happy for me. From the first time I told them I'd be moving on, they've been very happy. They support me and have stood by me and continue to push me."
Luis Bueno is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
