It’s hard to imagine Costa Rican soccer without the contributions of Miguel “Lito” Pérez, the legendary striker who left a lasting impression on the sport during the 1920s and 1930s.
Standing at just 1.62 meters tall, Pérez was often underestimated by opponents who mistook his size for a lack of skill. But on the field, he proved time and time again that he was a force to be reckoned with, with an innate ability to score goals and a physical prowess that belied his small stature.
Born to a Tico father and an English mother, Pérez spent his early years honing his craft with the Spanish Gymnastic Society in the province of San José. It was here that he first demonstrated his talents, earning a reputation as one of the team’s top scorers in the 1929 championship.
But it wasn’t until he joined the Josefino squad that Pérez truly came into his own. Despite being a small defender, he quickly became a starter for the team and helped them become one of the top teams in the league.
Throughout his career, Pérez was known for his incredible speed and agility on the field, as well as his deadly accuracy when it came to scoring goals. He played with a fierce determination that inspired his teammates and struck fear into his opponents, earning him a reputation as one of the greatest players of his generation.
Sadly, Pérez’s career was cut short by a debilitating leg disease that forced him to retire at just over 40 years old. But even in death, he remained a legend, with his friend and municipal mayor Lorgio Álvarez successfully lobbying to have the Puntarenas stadium named in his honor.
Today, the Miguel “Lito” Pérez Stadium stands as a testament to his enduring legacy and serves as a reminder of the impact that one man can have on a sport and a nation.
Location of the Lito Perez Stadium: 200 m. west of the Courts of Justice, on Avenida Centenario. downtown Puntarenas.
First soccer star of Puntarenas:
Name: Miguel Ángel Pérez Treacy “Lito”
Date and place of birth: 1905 in Puntarenas
Clubs: Spanish Gymnastics
Debut: January 26, 1930. La Gimnástica beat Herediano 2-1 at the National Stadium.
First goal: On the same day, he scored the red victory goal against Florense goalkeeper Enrique de Mezerville.
First division goals: 12
Read more about: Puntarenas Football Soccer Team