THE CENTURY MARK

TIJUANA –Joe Corona has a collection of milestones on his pro soccer resume. The Club Tijuana midfielder has won a promotional title and LIGA MX title, a Gold Cup with the United States National team and has played in several international tournaments.

He could add another one to his work experience Sunday when the Xoloitzcuintles visit Leones Negros in Guadalajara for a Week 7 match of the 2015 Clausura. The Sweetwater High graduate and Los Angeles-born Mexican-American would earn his 100^th cap in the LIGA MX if coach Daniel Guzman sends him to the pitch Sunday. It would be an accomplishment the 24-year-old always hoped to reach. He will probably remember his 100^th game but maybe not as much as his first. Corona sent in the team’s first goal ever in the Mexican First Division in its debut against Morelia Monarcas.

“It was very special moment to make my debut in the first division,” Corona said. “I remember it as if it was yesterday and now that I have the privilege of playing in my 100^th game, it is something very special to me. I can say that not every player has that privilege. It is a goal that I gave been able to achieve and I will continue to work to reach more. It is a very special moment that will be in my mind forever. It will always be in the team’s history books. It makes me feel proud of that moment and proud to be part of this team.”

Corona was part of the Club Tijuana team that rose from the Liga de Ascenso and helped the team to its promotion to the top-flight league. He was a starter when the Xoloitzcuintles clinched its first title during the 2012 Apertura, played in the Copa Libertadores and CONCACAF Champions League.

“There have been many special moments,” Corona said. “The promotion is one that stands out. There’s that, the LIGA title and playing in the Copa Libertadores. There are many great memories and events and this club is looking to create and have more of those.”

Corona said he doesn’t plan on doing anything different if he’s called upon to play against Leones Negros but it will definitely be something to cherish.  Corona continues to be an integral part of the team at several levels. He comes off the bench to help at different positions when needed during LIGA MX games. He has been the team captain during Copa MX matches and a leader to some of the younger players on that squad.

“I look forward to doing what I need to do to help this team win,” Corona said. “It doesn’t matter if it’s my first or 100^th game.”