Tue May 13 13:55:18 2008

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D.C. United forms partnership with Bolivian club

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Washington, D.C. (Sports Network) - D.C. United announced Tuesday the club has entered into a strategic partnership with Club Bolivar, one of Bolivia's most storied clubs.

Club Bolivar is in La Paz, one of the Bolivia's two capital cities. Since the team was founded in 1925 it has won 27 league championships. The club has also won 15 first division titles and played in the Copa Libertadores 25 times.

The partnership, which is initially set to run through 2009, seeks to enhance the sporting and commercial success of the respective clubs.

"We are pleased to enter into a partnership with the most successful club in Bolivian soccer history," United General Manager Dave Kasper said. "Bolivar is committed to success on and off the field, and we look forward to finding ways to help make each club better and stronger."

The technical side of the agreement ranges from sending young players to their partner club for training in the offseason, to coaching visits and exchanges, to the possibility of player transfers and loans. The teams will also explore opportunities for friendly matches and preseason tours and training camps in their partner's country.

Marco Etcheverry, who won three MLS Cup titles with United, starred for Club Bolivar from 1990-1991, and again in 2004. Other Bolivian soccer legends who have donned the famous Bolivar jersey include current Bolivia national team coach Erwin "Platini" Sanchez, Ramiro "Chocolatin" Castillo and former Pumas of Mexico striker Joaquin Botero.