Tuesday, April 5, 2005
Blanco signs with USA Chivas

Fresno - With eight seniors on the FPU 2004 roster, including Orlando Ramirez, Eddie Gutierrez and Fabricio Codeceira, head coach Jaime Ramirez knew next season would be a rebuilding challenge.

The job just got tougher.

Sophomore midfielder Milton Blanco has signed a developmental contract with new Major League Soccer team Chivas USA.

Blanco stepped into the central midfield for the Sunbirds last season. He totaled nine goals, 15 assists and 33 points after inheriting the position from Codeceira, the 2003 NAIA National Player of the year who missed half the season because of injury.

Blanco has also played he past two seasons for the Fresno Fuego of the Premier Development League. He impressed Chivas USA officials in a match between the Fuego the expansion team March 12.

Blanco is the third FPU player to sign a professional contract this season. Orlando Ramirez signed with the San Jose Earthquakes while Gaston Cignetti inked a contract with the Rochester Raging Rhinos of the United Soccer League's First Division.