Rocco von Marées’ rise in soccer has been marked by hard work, determination and talent.
Born in Anchorage, Alaska, Rocco made a name for himself as a standout goalkeeper on the U17 soccer team at St. Mary’s School in Faribault, Minnesota. His high-level performance led him to two (week-long) training sessions led by Crusaders Soccer Club and the EGK Institute. Under the expert guidance of Crusaders Coach Victor Melendez, Rocco honed the skills and discipline necessary to take his game to the next level.
His exceptional abilities caught the attention of the FC Barcelona Academy in Casa Grande, Arizona; the only youth residency soccer academy in the United States run by the world-renowned club.
At FC Barcelona Academy, his athletic strengths earned him a spot on the Chilean U17 National Team; ultimately paving the way for a contract with Universidad Católica de Chile. Playing for one of the most prestigious soccer clubs in Chile, Rocco is excited about this new chapter in his career.
Coach Melendez is proud of all Rocco has learned, knowing that his time with the Crusaders Soccer Club and EGK Institute played an influential role in his success.
Melendez has been a goalkeeping coach at a national level for over 20 years. He has an extensive background in collegiate soccer, professional coaching with the San Diego Sockers, training players within the Regional Olympic Program and coaching at EGK Institutes in Alaska, Iowa and Montana.
Nurturing young talent like Rocco is Coach Melendez’s passion. Rocco’s future in professional soccer looks incredibly bright and the Crusaders family wishes Rocco all the best as he continues to make waves in Chilean professional soccer and beyond. Congratulations, Rocco!