The death of Luis Guillermo “Teacher” Berrío took everyone by surprise this Sunday and many, like Dayron Pérez, recalled his anecdotes with a coach who aroused admiration and respect. Pérez, now an Atlético Huila coach, was led by Berrío at the twilight of his career. The ‘teacher’ was the technical assistant to Álvaro de Jesús ‘Loco’ Gómez in Águilas, where Dayron played in 2015.
“The truth is very sad, it was very surprising because he was a very young man, with many years ahead and who had a sports career that was an example to many. We don’t think this will happen at such a young age. I have a lot of admiration and respect for him because I had the opportunity to share with him when he was Álvaro de Jesús’s assistant and played with Águilas ”.
Many speak of the human quality of the ‘Teacher’, a man he loved wherever he went and who remained in the hearts of Atlético Huila fans. He was a key player in the promotion in 1992, the team’s historic goalscorer and as a coach, not only played the 2009 final against DIM, but also led the Neiva team to a South American Cup.
“At Atlético Huila he meant a lot, we all remember him as the institution’s most important historical player. As a coach he also did very important things, he restored the joy and enthusiasm of the team by taking it to a final and an international tournament. It is a very great value that leaves us. In Huila we feel him away from home and that is why his departure hurts us, ”he said.
What made it so special?
Berrío’s death revolutionized social networks and regrets after his sudden departure did not wait. According to Dayron, the ‘teacher’ was not only a great professional, but also a person to admire, with values and principles that he instilled in the people around him. Whether on the football field or in everyday life. Several of those consulted by FUTBOLRED agree.
‘He was a person who served as an example to us. He was a person full of values and principles, very honest and transparent. He was very knowledgeable and I would like to thank him personally, because after his time in Águilas he wanted to take me with him to reinforce the Pasto in 2015. He called me but because of a contractual issue it could not be given. It’s something I appreciate that he noticed when I was about to retire. He had always remembered playing and understanding us at all times. He was conscientious, responsive, very communicative, sincere, honest and when he felt injustice, he expressed it. What I appreciate the most is something you don’t see a lot in football and is transparency. The truth was, there was a lot of affinity and a good relationship with him. He always came to speak to him, he felt like a player at the time and was a bridge to the coach, ”he added.
And he continued, “He was someone who had a lot of respect for man and always, through respect, gave you the directions in the field. The messages were always positive and he wanted one to grow, he didn’t criticize the mistake. When someone spoke to him, it was like talking to another friend, and it felt very chemical because because he played so much and did so well it was easier. We all respected and admired him so I only have good things . memories. “