The death of Luis Guillermo ‘Teacher Berrío took everyone by surprise this Sunday and many, like Dayron Pérez, have remembered his anecdotes alongside a coach who inspired admiration and respect. Pérez, now coach of Atlético Huila, was led by Berrío at the end of his career. The ‘Teacher’ was Alvaro de Jesús ‘Loco’ Gómez’s technical assistant at Águilas, where Dayron played in 2015.
“The truth is very sad, he was very amazing because he was a very young man, with many years ahead and he had a sporting career that was an example for many. We don’t think this is going to happen at such an early age. I have a lot of admiration and respect for him, because I had the chance to share with him, when I was Álvaro de Jesús’ assistant and I played with Águiles “.
Many speak of the quality of being a human being of the ‘Teacher, a man who was loved wherever he went and who remained in the hearts of the fans of Atlético Huila. He was a key player in the promotion in 1992, the team’s historic goal scorer and as coach, he not only played in the 2009 final against DIM, but also led Neiva’s team to play in a Copa Sud- American.
“At Atlético Huila it meant a lot, we all remember him as the most important historical player of the institution. As a coach he also did very important things, he brought back the joy and enthusiasm to the team by a final and an international tournament. It is a great value that we are in vain. At Huila we feel at home, and that is why his game hurts us, “he said.
What made it so special?
Berrío’s death revolutionized social media and the lamentations after his sudden departure were not long in coming. According to Dayron, the ‘Teacher was not only a great professional but a person to be admired, with values and principles he instilled in those around him. Whether on the football field or in everyday life. This is the coincidence of several of those consulted by Futbolred.
“He was a person who set an example for us. He was someone full of values and principles, very honest and transparent. He had a lot of knowledge and I personally am grateful to him, because after his passage through Eagles he wanted to take me as a reinforcement of the Pasture in 2015. He called me but for a contractual issue it could not be given.It is something I value, that he noticed me when I was close to retirement.He always had in mind having played and understood us at all times.He was aware, receptive, very communicative, sincere, honest and when he felt an injustice he expressed it.What I value most is something that is not seen much in football and is transparency. “There was a lot of affinity and a good relationship with him. He always came close to talking, he felt like a player at that time and he was a bridge with the coach,” he added.
And he continued: “He was someone who had a lot of respect for the human being and always, through respect, you gave directions to the field. The messages were always positive and he wanted one to grow, he didn’t criticize the mistake. When one talked to him, it was like talking to another friend, and it felt like a lot of chemistry, because how he played so much and did so well, it was easier.We all respected and admired him, so I just have good best regards “.