Men's soccer and sports information will be taking advantage of the off-season months to catch up with some of our men's soccer alum to reflect on their experience at Dominican University (or Rosary College).  Today we catch up with Elvin Perez from the class of 2008.
 

What have you been up to since graduating from Dominican?

I took a position with the Sherwin Williams Paint Company and have been here for 17 years.  I got married and we have 2 daughters together. I spend most of my time in activities for my daughters. Whatever time I have left I try to use on playing some soccer. 

What do you miss most about Dominican?

I miss being around the guys and coaches.  I miss the tough preseasons.  I miss the road trips and the big games.  I miss playing in front of big home crowds. The postgame conversations with teammates and coaches on the bench after big games are ones I will always remember.  I miss having my family and friends look forward to those road trips and attending those big games.  I miss the experience and opportunity to have earned all of that.  It goes by fast.

What was your most memorable moment while at Dominican?

I have many great memories on and off the field.  If I had to pick one, I would say it would be coming back from being down 1-0 for most of the game in the 2006 Sweet 16 to eventually winning the penalty kick shoot-out to advance to the Elite 8.  I remember Rigo Barajas scoring to tie the game with less than 10 minutes left in regulation and then the joy of winning it all on Juan Carlos Saldana's final penalty kick.  It was such a great celebration.

What advice would you give to an incoming player?
Four years will fly by.  Make the most of it by practicing discipline and commitment on and off the field.  Use your free time to work on your game and studies as much as possible.  Also, being a part of the DU soccer program was a sense of pride for me.  I always wanted to make those that came before me proud as they helped pave the way for us.  Make sure you end your career at DU knowing you gave it your all and will be ready to move on to the next phase of your life.