The Yellows side, fourth in the table, are an example of fair play
Forming young players goes beyond the sporting side. Instilling values and knowledge that they can use in their daily life is something that is a priority in every academy. The Yellows Academy is another example of that. Forming footballers, and players at the same time, under the Villarreal CF philosophy.
One of the teams who has improved throughout the season is Alevín C, the U12 side, Manu Cheza, Jordi Francisco, Cristian Sánchez and Jorge Usó. The young team is part of the ‘Liga Alevín de Castellón de 2º Año’, which Cheza says they are doing well: “The team started very well, the majority came from the same team, other than four of five players. Everyone’s adaptation was very quick and in terms of playing level, the team has grown.”
One of the aspects that characterises Alevín C is their fair play and healthy rivalry. This is how Cheza describes it: “About four or five weeks ago, there was a piece of play where an opponent fell to the floor. At that time, no-one realised and we ended up scoring. Once the opposition took the kick-off, my players stopped and the player who was on the floor was able to score unopposed. That all happened without us saying anything to them from the bench, they’re an example of fair play to everyone.”
A great unity between players and coaching staff
Cheza and the rest of the coaching staff have been focused these months on giving his players the necessary tools to grow and improve. The evolution of each of those players has been massive. The players have taken on board and started using what the coaches have advised them during games. “At the start, it was hard for them to take control of certain game situations, but they’ve been able to get past that thanks to their attitude and commitment. The table doesn’t worry us, the aim is to improve every training session. Their hard work and commitment is what helps us be towards the top,” added Cheza.
They’re a solid team, a side that are hard to score against, and have a clear philosophy. They are currently fourth, with 40 points to their name, and hope to stay towards the top of their table. However, their performances are always based on respect and education with key values and concepts. There is a great connection between the coaching staff and the players, which has only got stronger as time has gone on, which Cheza mentions: “We’re a solid block, although we also are goalscorers. The majority of our games have seen us win by two or three goals. The team, when we work together, is a very solid side and if we’re focused, it’s hard to score against us. The Alevín C are an example to follow.
The squad is made up of the following players:
Players: Leo Ibáñez, Xavi Martínez, Alberto Hernández, Pau Llorens, Rafael Patrick, Mario Popescu, Víctor Domínguez, Álvaro Fuentes, Enrique Barrera, David Mazuecos, Sergi Sales, Alessio Barbosa, Raúl Mihai, Gerard Navarro.
Coach: Jordi Francisco, Manu Cheza, Cristian Sánchez, Jorge Usó.
