Sporting Life – Atletic Youth Football

For those who love a challenge and are passionate about the game, the Atletic club is the perfect choice. Founded in 1913 this football club has won the Campello trophy a record eight times. The ultras group is made up of more than a hundred members. The team is based in the town of Magaluf which is an hour’s drive from Alicante. This past season was the first season that the team played outside of Spain. This was good for the players because it gave them the opportunity to play in different terrains and environments which they may not have experienced before.

Last year’s top scorer, Kevin Genia joined AC Milan from Sporting Lisbon. Genia had a great time at Milan and is now on the move to Arsenal. The fans at the club however, are not letting the player leave. They are excited at the prospect of him playing for their team again and are waiting for his arrival. One thing is for sure, he is a fan of the Atletic ultras and is looking to make this season a special one.

Unlike Genia who prefers a smaller city to play for, los trancas de Atletic have a big fan base in Ibiza. A group called “Atleticos de la Lezama” (Lenzama) formed in the 1970’s as a reaction to the football hooliganism taking place in the city. The ultras group are made up of several different sections. One is called “Atleticos” and its leader is called Los Trios. Another section is called “Barca”. These two groups are known for their violent actions with the opposing teams.

In the first season of the Primera Nacional (NL) the club was managed by Garcia Maradona. During his time as manager he made some controversial decisions such as leaving goalkeeper Diego Trades (icial), Claus Vreadts and forward striker Pacoza to join FC Barcelona. As many neutrals felt this was a bad move not only because they lost three important players but also because of the poor support system the team received. They finished bottom of the table and failed to sign a player of the season which ended their season on a low note.

During the second season of the Primera Nacional (NL) things were looking bright for the Atletic club. They managed to attract defender Diego Lopez who impressed the national team coach Vicente del Bosque. They also signed Spanish goalkeeper Iker Munoz who impressed during the Euros and became a regular starter. Two of the best players in the country are now at the Nou camp and it looks like the future of Atletic is bright.

Looking at the recent run of form by the side, it seems pretty clear that they are heading for greater things. With Lopez and Munoz they have the best attacking quartet in Spain and that has got to be a massive factor behind the development of any team. This summer saw former player Josngel get his long awaited call up to the Spain team after many years of injuries. Now the club has looked like one of the favourites to lift the treble again and there is real promise for the club and the future of youth football in Spain.