Only 12 hours after celebrating a 2-0 victory against Seattle Sounders FC that put them four points clear at the top of the Western Conference, Chivas USA was back to work. The team held the second of its "Practice in the Community" events on Sunday morning, conducting a training session at Montebello High School in Montebello, Calif.
Local residents from Montebello, which is about 20 miles northeast of The Home Depot Center, got a chance to watch the Red-and-White during a practice session and meet the players for autographs and photos afterward.
"The Montebello Unified School District is happy to host Chivas USA's Practice in the Community," said Montebello Unified School District board president Gerri Guzman. "We work hard to encourage our students to be the best they can be, while also stressing the importance of physical exercise. Having Chivas USA practice on our high school's field reflects both those efforts, and we are very excited to host this event."
The team took a slow warm-up and then played a few small-sided games as it continues to prepare for Wednesday's clash with Toronto FC.
"It's a great feeling to have all the fans supporting us and behind us at all the games," said Chukwudi Chijindu, who scored his first MLS goal against Seattle. "When the fans come out here to watch us train, it's just a good feeling. I can't be any happier."
Sunday morning saw a handful of injured players on the Chivas USA roster get a few touches on the ball, including Bobby Burling, Justin Braun and Lawson Vaughn.
"It's been a long time off," said Vaughn. "I've been really excited to get back on the field and get some touches on the ball. I just want to help my team.
"When I was injured, I really wanted to get back and play for these fans that we have. It's good to get out and see them. A lot of them have shown me a lot of support during my three or four years here, so it's really good. It's flattering and it keeps you humble."
The session also provided a chance for the players to connect with their fans on a personal level while signing autographs and taking photos.
"It's great for the club to interact with the community," said Ante Jazic. "Especially with Chivas USA being a newer team in MLS, we have to come out and try to get the fans' support. They show up in numbers and it's good to interact with the people that cheer you on."
Chivas USA leaves for Toronto early Monday morning for its first away game since March 29 and will be looking to continue its unbeaten streak against expansion rivals Toronto FC on Wednesday night.
Jeffrey King is a contributor to MLSnet.com.
