This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2012, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

The hulking Colombian center back is easily the most imposing player on Real Salt Lake. But his personality, spoken through a translator, might surprise you.

Obviously, you're huge physically. Do you lift weights a lot to stay that way?

I actually don't like to go to the gym very often, but I do it to maintain the minimum. I've been blessed with genetics, and my physique is basically what I've been given by God.

Were you always the biggest kid, growing up?

Until about the age of 14, I was about average size and height of all of my friends. After that, I really jumped in size and muscle mass.

Do you take more pride in being really strong, or really fast?

Having speed is probably more adaptable to being better at other things than just being big and strong.

So what do you do in your spare time?

Usually, I just like to spend it with family, play with my kids [Anderson, 13, and Luara, 7]. For the most part, I'm a homebody.

What's your favorite sport, other than soccer?

Basketball. I like watching the last two quarters. And I'm starting to watch American football.

What has been the biggest difference for you, living in the United States?

I've been living in a house for seven months, and I don't even know my neighbors. In Colombia, it's more traditional. … But here in the U.S., it's a better situation for my son. It's a better place to raise my kids. It's a little bit more secure lifestyle.

Do you plan to stay in America after you finish playing?

Yes. I'd love to stay here. My wife is happy, my son is happy. That's important, probably the most important. But if he was to go back to Colombia at this point, it would probably only be for vacation.

Do you have a favorite restaurant in Salt Lake City?

I don't have a favorite, but my wife likes Cafe Rio so we go there a lot. If you have any good recommendations for some seafood, I'd really enjoy that. That's my favorite.

You said you don't really like movies much, but would rather read books. What's your favorite?

One Hundred Years of Solitude, by Gabriel Garcia Marquez.

What has been your favorite soccer moment?

Winning MLS Cup with RSL and winning the Colombian championship with Deportivo Cali.

What's one word you would use to describe yourself, off the field?

Tranquil.