The property that saw the birth of world champions such as Lionel Messi and Lionel Scaloni was the headquarters of the international 7-a-side soccer tournament, which brought together teams of the 2015 and 2016 categories from different countries in America and several regions of Argentina.
Newell’s, recognized for its outstanding work in youth training, launched a new edition of the Newell’s Cup Internationalla 7-a-side soccer tournament that brings together young talents from across the continent. The event took place from Monday, September 16 to Friday, September 20 at the Malvinas Complex, located at Zeballos 3185.
In this edition, 24 teams participated from different parts of America, such as Peru and Bolivia, as well as from several Argentine provinces, including San Juan, Córdoba and Santa Fe. Some teams were specially invited, while others had to go through a qualifier.
On Monday morning, the opening ceremony was held, led by Gabriela Bodo, a representative of the institution’s Department of Culture. Each delegation paraded with its flag: that of the club and that of the country of origin. Among those present were coaches, leaders, city councilors, and club authorities such as Carlos Panciroli, coordinator of the Malvinas Complex, Raúl Damiani, and Ariel Paolorossi, general coordinator of the lower divisions.
The closing day, held on Friday, was attended by leaders, coordinators and the notable presence of former players Rubén “El Mago” Capria – current club advisor – and Iván “El Memo” Borghello. Both shared moments with the almost 1,000 people present at the venue while the finals were being played.
We talk with Francisco Pochettinoone of the organizers of the Newell’s Cup, who shared his experience and vision about the event.
Besides the competition, what other activities did the delegations carry out?
The teams’ first contact is with the Malvinas property, but they are also offered a series of tours of the institution. They visit the Coloso, take the historical tour of the Department of Culture to learn about the history and values of the club, and are entertained with a friendship barbecue at the grills. In addition, a conference is organized for coaches in a hotel in the city, where various personalities, including Newell’s technicians, present. It is also important to mention that the delegations tour and get to know the city as tourists.
How many people attended the tournament during the week?
Between players and spectators who purchased tickets, we had an average of 800 people per day.
As an organizer, how did you prepare for this edition of the Newell’s Cup?
The key is anticipation. It is essential to send invitations in time and organize work groups both for the competition and for the logistics of the teams staying in the city during those days.
What is the main objective of this competition?
The tournament has several objectives: to generate a high-performance competition, to foster institutional relationships, to acquire parameters from different sports cultures and, of course, to position and prioritize the Newell’s Cup for future editions.
How important is it that the tournament is international?
It is a very attractive look, especially for gamers. Facing teams with other cultures is not something easy to achieve, and it is a unique opportunity for children to share, enjoy and enrich each other. It’s something really special.
What impressions did the delegations convey to you?
They gave us a lot of joy and enthusiasm, especially the boys. It was a tournament that left very nice feelings. We received many messages of gratitude and satisfaction from the players and their parents. There were even kids who already said they wanted to play at Newell’s!
Who collaborated to make this event possible?
The Newell’s Cup team worked together with the club’s leaders, the group that collaborates in Malvinas and all areas of the institution, such as communication, marketing, security and maintenance. There was great teamwork, and although I’m probably forgetting to mention some, everyone made a great effort.
What conclusions do you draw from this edition of the Newell’s Cup?
The sensations are very positive. We lay the foundations for this tournament to continue growing. I think we took an important step, and those who participated have let us know. Even some teams that could not attend this edition have already asked us to be invited in the future.
What’s next after this tournament?
In November we will have the tenth edition of the Illinois Newell’s Cup, which we believe will be very successful, since it will be 11-a-side soccer. We will receive teams from the 2012 category, and the participation of Inter Miami stands out among the international clubs.
Malvinas, the sacred land where the best player in history was born, and where many others emerged such as Scaloni, Samuel, Maxi Rodriguez, Bernardi and Manso, was a true celebration and inspiration for all the boys who set foot on this blessed soil.
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