Colorado Rapids Sign Mexican International Alberto Rizo

24 Year-old Defender Becomes the Only Mexican Player Currently in MLS to Have Played in the Mexican First, Primera " A" and Second Divisions, Winning Two Championships With the Atlas Second Division Side

The Colorado Rapids and Major League Soccer announced today the signing of 24-year old Mexican international Alberto Rizo to a multi-year deal. Details of the contract were not disclosed.

" Alberto is a young versatile player that has proven himself at the highest level in the Mexican league," said Colorado Rapids Head Coach Tim Hankinson. " Hs ability to defend and join the attack makes him a key addition to the team as we begin our run for the 2003 MLS Championship."

Rizo, a native of Guadalajara, Mexico began his professional career in 1996 and made his debut in the Mexican First Division playing for club Atlas in 1999. He played a total of three seasons with the first team of the Mexican franchise.

" I'm very excited to be part of the Rapids and Major League Soccer," Rizo said. " I'm here to help in any way I can so that with the support of the great fans of the Colorado area we can reach the championship match this season."

Before joining Atlas' First Division team, Rizo won the Mexican Second Division championship in two occasions (1996 and 1997) playing for the Atlas reserve squad.

In 2002 Rizo played for the current leader of the Mexican " Primera A" Division, Zacatepec playing a key role in the team's defensive scheme.

The former Mexican Under- 17 and Under-2 1 National Team player is currently in the Denver area waiting for his work permit to come through to be able to play his first game for the Rapids.

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