Giving that Chad Ochocinco grew up in soccer-loving Miami, it's no surprise that he used to play the sport in his youth, but the colorful Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver is know more for his skills with his hands than his feet. Now, in the face of an NFL labor lockout, Ochocinco has announced that he's trying out for Major League Soccer team Sporting Kansas City.
The team's head coach Peter Vermes has invited Ochocinco to enlist with the team next week for a four-day tryout period. There's a possibility that the trial could be extended.
"We know that Chad is an exceptional athlete and that he loves the sport of soccer, and he did play a lot when he was younger," Vermes tells the club's website. "We're excited to see how his skills will translate once he arrives next week and begins training with our team."
"Due to the NFL lockout, I'm excited to be able to follow my childhood dream of playing for a Major League Soccer team," says Ochocinco. "Thanks to Sporting Kansas City for giving me this opportunity."
Ochocinco has a long history as a soccer fan. Though, he also has a long history of delusions that he can excel against professional athletes in other sports. He once challenged Michael Phelps to a swim meet in a Liberty City pool.
We're not sure what is weird: the fact Sporting Kansas City is giving Ocho the opportunity, or that Kansas City manages to have an MLS team while Miami remains without.
No word on whether Evelyn Lozada, Basketball Wives star and Ochocinco's fiance, will ask Vh1 for a Soccer Wives spin-off.
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