Sueño MLS: Five finalists, two cousins
During the round of 60 at Bell Garden, Abraham Garcia of Santa Barbara, Calif., and Jorge Flores of Anaheim, Calif., learned they are cousins. Strangely enough, both made it to the two-week trial.
"My uncle noticed Abraham's dad in the round of 60" said Flores, a 17-year-old forward who has impressed coaches with his speed and scoring touch.
"And when we were done that day, my dad told me that I had a cousin [at the competition] I had to meet," said Garcia, a crafty 17-year-old midfielder.
Flores' mother and Garcia's father are cousins, making these players second cousins and now allies as they work together through these last two weeks.
"We faced each other at the 'Final 24'round at The Home Depot Center," said Garcia. "But now, we're playing together. He even gave me an assist for a goal at practice."
With this new found relationship, each player feels less pressure and double the support.
"We feel the support from both our families now," said Flores.
"I'm happy to have a cousin with me as a finalist and if I don't make it then hopefully he can. We support one another," added Garcia.
On top of the added support that each player feels, their parents have also given them a piece or two of advice.
"My mom said she would be happy to see either of us make it," said Flores. "She told us to give it all we've got."
"My dad told me that since I have a cousin playing with me that I shouldn't hit him," said Garcia jokingly. "Also that it would be better if we both made."
Regardless of who goes on to be the winner of "Sueño MLS Chivas USA Wants You!" both Flores and Garcia agree this has been life changing experience. And, as the cousins get closer and closer to their dream of playing professional soccer, they will undoubtedly become closer family members as well.
