The San Jose Clash has named former Indiana Twisters coach Jorge Espinoza as assistant coach, the team announced Jan. 8. Espinoza replaces Francisco Matturano, who served as assistant coach the previous two seasons. “[Jorge] is an excellent fit for the Clash, both on the field, as a partner with Brian [Quinn] and in the community, especially with our Hispanic fans,” said San Jose GM Peter Bridgwater. The 44-year-old Espinoza is a native of Santiago, Chile, who began his professional career with Chilean powerhouse Colo Colo in 1972. He helped the club reach the 1972 Libertadores Cup final and played for Chile in the 1976 Olympics. IIn 1979, he moved to the U.S. to play with the NASL’s Chicago Sting. He later played indoors in both the MISL and NPSL. As a coach, he debuted by spending three years at Rosary (Ill.) College and another season at Triton (Ill.), before taking over the Rockford Raptors of the USISL. In 1995 he returned to the MISL, guiding the expansion Mexico Toros to a 17-11 mark. He joined the CISL’s Twisters in 1996 and posted a 27-29 record in two seasons as their coach, including a 17-11 record in 1997. “I’ve played against Jorge and coached against Jorge for more than 10 years, and I have tremendous respect for his knowledge and understanding of the game,” said Clash head coach Brian Quinn. “I’ve always thought he would be an excellent coach to work with, and I’m looking forward to what we can accomplish together in 1998 and beyond.”