When Eric Calvillo signed his first pro contract with the New York Cosmos at just 18 years old in 2016, Giovani Savarese was his head coach and his mentor.

It only makes sense that his first opponent since signing an MLS deal with the San Jose Earthquakes is none other than Savarese, who now oversees the Portland Timbers. The Quakes and Timbers will meet on Wednesday as part of team’s stay in Tucson, Arizona.

Calvillo had a developmental year during his rookie season of 2016, appearing in only three games during the team’s championship-winning campaign. However, he was entrusted with leading the team’s midfield in 2017, appearing in 16 regular season games en route to a trip to the championship game once again. He racked up a list of individual honors during the season, including Player of the Week, Team of the Week, Player of the Month and more.

“He had a big impact on my development as a player, when I was learning how to be a professional, off the field as well,” said Calvillo about Savarese. “He was always in my corner and still is today.

“In my first year, he would pull me to the side and could tell I was frustrated because I wasn’t playing. He told me to keep working hard and have patience, that he had a plan for me. Because of the confidence he showed in me then, I am where I am today.”

Upon signing with the Quakes earlier this month, he was the second-youngest player on the roster behind only 16-year-old Jacob Akanyirige. With 15-year-old Gilbert Fuentes signing on since then, Calvillo is now third-youngest, which is still an incredible feat given his lengthy professional background. Calvillo also possesses a slew of international experience with various U.S. youth national teams, playing alongside players such as Christian Pulisic and Tyler Adams at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup.

Despite his obvious technical qualities right now, the Quakes brass believes he still can improve by leaps and bounds to reach his full potential. That sort of confidence in a young player such as Calvillo, and others like him, should bode well for the future of the club.

“I’m focused on my career with the Earthquakes and showing that I’m capable of playing a lot of minutes this season and helping the team.”