Soccer players from the Houston Area could see their dreams come true this weekend, as the Houston Dynamo hosts its second-annual tryouts. Many will come to show their skills, but very few, if any, will be chosen to be part of a team ready to defend its MLS Cup title.
Out of all the players that will be in attendance, one stands out for his playing ability and previous professional experience. His name is José Arturo Chavez. As a player, the Eisenhower High School graduate has participated in almost every single amateur league in the Bayou City. What is most important, however, is his professional curriculum.
"I started my career in Mexico playing in Cruz Azul's lower divisions," Chavez, said. "About six months later, Pumas UNAM saw my talents after I scored three goals against one of their teams in a friendly. It was then that Hugo Sanchez (now coach of the Mexican national team) signed me to play for the club."
Sanchez would spend the following season making a name for himself in Pumas' Second Division team. The fact that he led the Mexican "Primera A" with 27 goals allowed him to play with Pumas' first team the following season.
"Playing in Mexico's first division gives you grounds to compare the level of soccer that is played here and there. Although the U.S. is growing very quickly, the key here is that they still need to develop players from an early age, something that you've seen in Mexico and other countries for many, many years. Still, Major League Soccer has become a force to be reckoned with, and can rival any league in the World", Sanchez stated.
In spite of the success he's had on the soccer field, all is not perfect in Sanchez's world. Family troubles have kept him from playing in Mexico, where he is currently under contract with Pumas UNAM. However, his stay in Houston has made Pumas UNAM freeze his contract, which means that for the next year he will not be able to play for any other club in Mexico.
"Yes, it has been very frustrating not being able to play", said Sanchez with a sigh. "However, I am keeping my options open and looking to see if I can't play somewhere else. Playing for the Dynamo would be an excellent opportunity to broaden my career, but I also have the opportunity to play in Russia and Saudi Arabia if things don't work out."
Many players in Houston share Sanchez's dream of playing or continuing to play professionally. At the moment, approximately 30 players have been approved by a Dynamo pre-screening process. If you are one of those players, or know someone who might have what it takes to play for the Dynamo, please feel free to send your resume for consideration. You may send it to infodynamo@houstondynamo.com. If selected, you will be contacted with details surrounding the event.
For Sanchez, his goal is attainable. All he needs is the opportunity to showcase his abilities.
"All I want to do is play for Hugo Sanchez once again, but this time with Mexico's national team. It's all as simple as getting the opportunity to play. Hopefully the Dynamo will be the team giving me that opportunity."
