Not surprisingly, he’s has grown into a voice of wisdom – a guide for the younger generation.
Cam Duke, a 21-year-old midfielder at the club, appreciates Espinoza’s experience and advice.
"He's had a big influence on me and the team," said Duke. "He's a really good leader. He's been helping me with things that I need to do better. He tells me the things I'm good at, like keep using my strengths. He's definitely had a big influence on my development as a player."
Except for the lone season with Wigan, Espinoza has played his entire career with Sporting. He’s logged many miles – 23,238 minutes over 301 MLS regular season games since 2008, scoring 11 goals and assisting on 40.
SKC’s Grand Old man
"I'm very happy that [just about] my entire career has been in Kansas City," he admitted. "It's proven how hard I worked. Mentoring the younger guys…it's me trying to keep the culture and help the young guys continue that culture. You're not always going to win the championship, but you always got to go out there and give everything. It's representing the club in a good manner on and off the field."
At the age of 35, when many players have called time, retiring thoughts are hardly on Espinoza's mind.
"In the last probably two or three years I feel great," he said. "I'm going to go until I can't. Right now, I don't really feel that need to retire…I feel great. I have a contract and I'm competing. I'm getting minutes. I'm still the same as when I was younger, getting in the car and going to practice.
"I'm not going to run the same as when I was in my 20s or my early 30s. But I have a lot of experience. I can compete on the field,” added Sporting KC’s wise old head. “I can position myself, make the plays I need to help my team. I'm very happy for what I've accomplished. If you told me 15 years ago, I was going to be exactly right here, I would say you're just lying and a lunatic."
Michael Lewis can be reached at socwriter@aol.com and @Soccerwriter on Twitter. His book (ALIVE AND KICKING The incredible but true story of the Rochester Lancers) is available for purchase.
