Luchi Gonzalez to Head Soccer Program at Columbus

Professional soccer player and former college national player of the year, Luis “Luchi” Gonzalez has accepted the position of Head Coach of Christopher Columbus High School’s Varsity Soccer Team. 

Luchi, who is currently playing with the United Soccer League’s Minnesota Thunder, is scheduled to start his new coaching position after the USL season ends, somewhere in September or October of this year.

Luchi has played with many professional teams over the last seven years including the Miami FC (USL), Colorado Rapids (MLS), Sporting Cristal (Peruvian Division), Bodens BK (Swedish 2nd Division), Columbus Crew (MLS), and the San Jose Earthquakes (MLS).  He has participated in two Youth World Cups and has won numerous top awards including the 2001 Soccer America’s College Men’s Player of the Year and the 2001 Herman Trophy which is mirrored as the Heisman award for soccer players.

 “We are very excited about Luchi starting at Columbus.” said Chris McKeon, the school’s Athletic Director.  “He comes highly recommended and I know he can take our soccer program to great heights.” he said.  Having worked at many youth summer soccer camps, Luchi has great coaching experience.  In fact, last year he opened his own Miami Pro Soccer Academy in South Miami. His most recent accomplishment is coaching Varela High School’s soccer team to win the state and national championships last season.

“I was very impressed with the administration at Columbus and I believe that they have a great vision in place for its soccer program.  I look forward to be able to grow the team and continue to help put soccer at the forefront of the school’s athletics.”, said Luchi.   The Columbus team is defensively strong and its players are committed.  Last season they competed for the district championships.   When the players heard that Luchi would be their new coach they couldn’t believe it.  Many are fans.  “I was shocked.” said player Gabriel Jaramillo.  “I was very happy to hear the news, I know that Luchi can bring us much success.”  he said. Luchi says he looks forward to imparting his knowledge and philosophy of the game to the young men of Columbus and he hopes to maximize their potential as a group. “I’ll give them my heart and soul.” said Luchi.