The Crucial Role of the Porter in Soccer
The world of European football has always been well guarded by high caliber goalkeepers, a tradition that goes back generations. From the glorious times with figures like the myth Bordoy to the more contemporary Marc Vito or Pau Torres, Europe has been able to maintain constant praise for this key position.
The goalkeeper’s perception, however, has often been distorted by a superficial view of spectators, who tend to remember one-off mistakes more than consistent successes. This has left the goalkeeper in an unfair light, always subjected to more intense scrutiny than other outfield players.
The Job of the Porters recognized
In order to recognize the importance of goalkeepers and dispel unfair myths, the Pep Rovira European Group recently organized a round table entitled ‘Guardians of the Ground’. This meeting brought together figures such as Pep Rovira, Rafa Leva, Mònica Aguilar and Míriam de Francisco, four names that resonate in Carrer Sardenya.
Under the moderation of European partner Miquel García, the importance of mental strength in a goalkeeper, his ability to lead the defense and direct the team from the back, was highlighted. Beyond physical fitness, emphasis was placed on safety and confidence, essential pillars for a good performance under the sticks.
A clear example of this mentality was Pep Rovira’s debut in the First Division, remembering how he overcame a substitute situation to emerge as an indisputable figure. A career that started on the beaches of Baix a Mar, in Torredembarra.
Evolution of Women’s Football
One of the outstanding topics was the evolution of women’s football, with the presence of two women exporters, Mònica Aguilar and Míriam de Francisco. Aguilar, with a journey that goes from school to the Women’s A field, shared how his knowledge of the game has been enriched with journalistic experience, putting a special focus on the psychology of the game.
De Francisco’s departure from Europe paved the way for the rise of the young Aguilar, a testament to the successes of the CE Europe training program. This transition also illustrated how technical strategies are combined with deep knowledge of the game.
Personal Experiences and Commitment
The commitment to football was also a recurring theme, especially with the presence of Rafa Leva, the only one of the guests who is still active in the world of football. From his experiences at Santboià to his time in Europe, Leva shared his love for the game and the most memorable moments of his career.
The colloquium concluded with a general recognition of the guests, as living examples of dedication and passion for football, regardless of gender or position on the field.
