Veteran trio moved by season awards
Cunningham, Ricchetti, Sala reflect on honors from 2009 season
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So it wasn't a major surprise when the veteran trio swept the FCD team awards, which were announced late last week. Cunningham was named MVP, Ricchetti earned Humanitarian of the Year while Sala was the 2009 Defender of the Year. Each player received their awards before Saturday night's 2-1 win against Colorado at Pizza Hut Park.
"Next to the birth of my child and the day I got married, that award is probably ranked next," Cunningham said. "I really, really wanted that. The past two years have been very difficult for me. I went from Toronto and Salt Lake. To come here, especially with the slow start to this season, to work hard, keep the faith and get that award, it means a lot."
The 12-year league veteran is currently the circuit's top scorer and has also delivered seven game-winners for FCD this season. However, there was a point earlier in the year when Cunningham fell out of form and wasn't playing much for Hyndman.
"Earlier this season, when I wasn't in the first team was a real low point for me," he said. "To keep working hard and believing in myself with the help of God, I was able to get to this point. Words can express what it means to me and family because there is a lot at stake. At one point, I thought my career was over. I didn't think anyone else would give me another opportunity. For me to get the chance and open a lot of eyes to where people are now talking about the national team, it's unbelievable.
"I've got to give (credit to) God and my faith. There were a lot of sleepless nights and a lot of praying. God opened that door for me," Cunningham continued. "I want to express how I feel but at the same time, I don't want to take anything away from the team. It's not about me. We're focused on the playoffs. I don't want to shift the focus away from where it should be, on the team. Trust me, deep down, this is a blessing to me and my family."
Hyndman is clearly glad Cunningham has stepped up after the departure of Kenny Cooper to Germany in early August.
"I think Jeff has been superb. He's playing some of his best soccer," the FCD coach said. "How would this team be without him? I don't think we'd be scoring all these goals and leading the league without him. He's part of the reason we've had such a great run when you look at the number of games he's played and how many goals he's scored. We're a talented team and I think Jeff has been a huge part of that success."
In 22 games this year at both center back and holding midfield, Ricchetti has scored one goal. However, the versatile Argentinean was honored for his considerable work in the community, earning FCD Humanitarian of the Year for the second consecutive year.
"There's not too much to say. I enjoy it," he said. "I enjoy going out there and doing something. I try to do everything I can. If there is something I can do to help someone, then it's not too much to ask. I do all I can."
Said Hyndman: "I think Pablo is exceptional in off the field events like community service, the benefits, the charities and all those kinds of things. He really finds in his heart that is valuable time for him to put in. You always have to give something else up whether it's family time or workout time, but he's found a place in his heart that time is valuable. I salute him for those traits."
In a season that has been drastically cut short by several injuries, Sala has stepped up since reclaiming the starting 'keeper spot for FCD in early August. In 13 games, he has a 7-4-1 record with four shutouts and a goals-against average of 1.47. Almost immediately, his return helped a revamped FCD back line become a more effective unit.
"I have played only 11 or 12 complete games here. It was a tough situation for me this year," the FCD 'keeper said. "So this award is an award for not giving up and something I can share with my family -- my wife and my new baby for how supportive she was. It's all for her and for my family. Of course, the coach gave me confidence to be a captain and to start on this team. I want to give that confidence back on the field."
Sala learned of the award last Friday, the same day that his wife gave birth to their newest addition, daughter Valentina.
"That was a perfect day. I enjoyed it," he said. "I have been happy for the last month like never before with this organization. I enjoy how our team is playing. We knew once the coaching staff put the roster together that we would do well."
Hyndman likes what he has gotten from Sala between the posts since his return but also likes the leadership he has displayed since becoming team captain several games ago.
"What Dario (Sala) brought was the experience, the calmness and the soccer sense," the FCD coach said. "What he's been able to bring is point blank saves that he's made in the last couple games. He's acting as captain right now and I think that has encouraged him to step up and do more."
Steve Hunt is a contributor to MLSnet.com.
