https://youtu.be/GGZWo0WZ1F0

He can’t be missed. He’s fro-tastic. He’s Diego Marroquin in the Des Moines Menace backfield.
 

This week’s player spotlight gets “hairy” as we learn all about Marroquin and his long, luscious locks. What’s his secret?

“I use shampoo with hot water and condition it in cold. I think it gives my hair maximum curl-age,” said Marroquin. “Then I do a light blow dry, very light, on medium.”

The simple but particular hair regime gives Marroquin the ultimate soccer hair-do, which contributes to his swagger on the field.

“I believe my hair gives me a competitive edge. I feel like the other team is afraid or hesitant because they don’t want to score on me or my hair,” noted Marroquin. “I feel like (my hair) makes me a beast.”

To competitors, he’s fierce, scoring two goals off of two shots this season – one of which was a header. But this Californian’s west coast, easy-going vibe makes him extremely approachable off the field.

“People look at me and think he’s a big jerk, but I’m a nice guy so people shouldn’t be afraid to ask for autographs after games,” mentioned Marroqiun. “Don’t be intimidated by my hair; I’m human just like everyone else.”

The fro has become a staple in the defense as Marroquin has started all 10 games – the only Menace player to do so this season.

“We’re very good in the defense, said Marroquin. “We have everything from captain Coady Andrews leading and (Jubril) Lawal flying forward and making things happen. We have so much depth anybody can step in.”

However, not everybody can take on the role of having the best hair on the team. When asked which teammate could take his spot, Marroquin quickly answered Anthony Colaizzi with his European Mohawk.

“If I could pull it off I would,” said Marroquin. “It’s always perfect, I don’t know how he does it. I mean what does he do? He won’t tell.”

Do note, there’s more to Marroquin than just a head of touchable curls. He holds several hidden talents including humor and belting out a national anthem.

“I have a tremendous voice. I’m pretty good. I’ve also done some acting; many school plays over the years. I’m a trained stage actor. I’m debating going Hollywood but I gotta talk to my mom first. I’d want to go on Broadway and win a Tony,” said Marroquin.

Whether it’s a Tony or a Premier Development League championship, Marroquin, and his 1960’s-esque hair, will not back down.

“I see seven W’s for the rest of the season. I think we’re going the right direction. Pretty much the season is in our hands,” said Marroquin. “We just have to take it one game at a time and win them all one by one. Hopefully with training hard, everything should happen.”

 Hometown: Petaluma, Calif.
College: Sacramento State
Pre-game rituals: Eat two zingers and a pop-tart
What you bring to the Menace: Nice smile and muscles
Favorite team: San Jose Earthquakes
Favorite food: Felix and Oscars & Qdoba
Favorite soccer move: triple scissors
Favorite song: "Last Friday Night" - Katy Perry
Favorite TV show: How I Met Your Mother