[AMERICANS ABROAD] Tijuana's Joe Benny Corona was named the top newcomer in Mexico's First Division at the Balon de Oro awards ceremony in Mexico City on Monday.

Corona scored in each of his first two First Division games with promoted Tijuana but then slowed down, going seven straight games without a start before starting the final game of the Torneo Apertura. He finished the fall campaign with two goals in 13 games for the Xolos.

Born in Los Angeles to a Mexican father and Salvadoran mother, Corona attended San Diego State before joining Tijuana's youth system.

The 21-year-old Corona, who is currently with the U.S. U-23s, beat out Atlante's Alfonso Luna, Jaguares' Armando Zamorano and Pachuca's Hector Herrera for the award.

“I'm very happy," said Corona. "I thank God for these good things he has given me in such a short time and it's motivating to know that great things can be achieved when there is determination, dedication and humility."