News
THU 25.06.2015
Barranquilla continues to demonstrate its joy at being the venue of the II LaLiga Promises International Tournament. On Wednesday evening, the city’s town hall organised a stirring opening ceremony for the U12s sides, both those from Spain and those from Colombia, participating in this edition of the competition.
Elsa Noguera, mayor of Barranquilla, was accompanied by José Ramón de la Morena, president of the Fundación el Larguero, and Ignacio Martínez Trujillo, director of Strategic Projects at LaLiga. "We’re really honoured to be hosting this tournament, which shows off and promotes the talent of our young sportspersons", said Noguera. "Knowing that those who are going to represent us in the future are here in Barranquilla is an honour". Meanwhile, De la Morena sent the following message to the youngsters present: "The best of luck to you all and don’t be afraid of making mistakes; give it a go, be happy and we’ll applaud you". Martínez Trujillo declared that the organisation of this tournament is "a further step in our work with the youngest players. A league that wishes to be the best in the world must open itself up to the globe, and our aim is to work side by side with Latin American football". LaLiga presented Barranquilla’s city administration with a commemorative plaque expressing its gratitude.
One by one, the LaLiga U12s teams made their way up to the stage to hand the mayor their side’s shirt, as well as gifts from their clubs. The six Spanish captains each spoke before those in attendance to give thanks for the warm welcome and excellent hospitality offered by the city, adding that this is a unique experience in their lives.
The six Colombian teams taking part in the competition (Barranquilla FC, Junior, Deportivo Cali, Independiente de Santa Fe, Atlético Nacional and the 'Todo bien por Killa' XI) were also at the opening ceremony. The focus of the attention was the coach of the last of these outfits, former Real Valladolid player Carlos Valderrama.
© LALIGA - 2015