João Valido is the main figure in the November issue of Revista Lobos, Arouca’s monthly magazine which brings together some facts about the club, as well as the area where it is located. In the interview he gave to the media about the Arouquense emblem, the 24-year-old goalkeeper, who is with the club from 2022/23, emphasized the alliance he makes between playing football, the degree in Sports Management that he is taking by him. and the fight against diabetes. “Some time ago, I practiced another sport besides football, the modern pentathlon. My parents always pushed me a lot to continue studying. In this sport, the training load was much higher. This bothered me, because I didn’t know how the Did the football players study? revealed the guardian, who was once the face of a diabetes awareness campaign: “I can say that the disease does not affect my life daily now. I have been diabetic for as long as I can remember. I think the hardest part whoever had to carry it on was my parents. Coming from the youth teams of V. Setúbal, where he did almost all of his training, João Valido also reflected on the number of coaches who went on his path to the senior levels of football. “I have to thank Mr. Daniel Sousa, who always gave me a lot of confidence and helped make everything work out [depois de uma grave lesão]. Although I am new, I have already engaged many important coaches. Since I was called by the first coach of the main team of V. Setúbal, coach José Couceiro, who beat me twice… but, of course, there is a coach who will always be very important to me, and that is the first he is a goalkeeper. , who trained me since I was 8 years old. Mr. Carlos Ribeiro is. He was the most important coach I had in my career because he trusted me for all these years and nurtured the dream that I could become a professional player”, suggested João Valido.
By João Albuquerque
Interview Between Time.news Editor and João Valido, Arouca’s Goalkeeper
Editor: Welcome, João! It’s great to have you here. Your story is inspiring, especially for young athletes. Let’s start with your journey at Arouca. You joined the club during the 2022/23 season. What has that experience been like for you?
João Valido: Thank you for having me! Joining Arouca has been an incredible journey. The club has a rich history and a passionate fanbase. Being a part of this team has allowed me to grow not just as a player but as an individual as well. The support from fans and my teammates has really motivated me to perform at my best.
Editor: That’s wonderful to hear! Balancing football with your education in Sports Management is no small feat. How do you manage to juggle both responsibilities, and what drives you to pursue your degree?
João Valido: It can be challenging, but I believe that education is just as important as sports. My passion for football goes hand in hand with my desire to understand the business side of the game. Sports Management offers insights into leadership, marketing, and team dynamics, which I think will be beneficial both during my career as a player and in the future.
Editor: That’s a very strategic approach! Now, moving to the fight against social issues—how do you integrate your platform as an athlete to advocate for change, particularly through your studies and your experiences on the pitch?
João Valido: I believe athletes have a unique position to influence change. Through my studies, I’ve learned how important sports can be in community engagement and social initiatives. I strive to highlight causes that matter, whether it’s through awareness campaigns or collaborating with local charities. My role as a goalkeeper is to protect the net, but I also want to protect the values I stand for off the field.
Editor: It’s commendable that you are looking beyond just the game itself. Earlier this month, you mentioned in an interview that teamwork is essential both on the field and in life. Can you elaborate on how your experiences have shaped this belief?
João Valido: Absolutely! Football is inherently a team sport—success depends on how well we work together. Every player has a role, and realizing that everyone contributes to the bigger picture has taught me valuable life lessons. In my studies and my advocacy work, collaborating with others amplifies our impact, whether in achieving a goal on the pitch or driving social change.
Editor: That’s a profound perspective, João. As we look ahead to the upcoming season, what goals do you have for both your personal development and Arouca as a team?
João Valido: Personally, I want to continue improving my skills and contribute significantly to the team’s success. For Arouca, I’d love for us to challenge ourselves and aim for higher placements in the league. Together, we can create lasting memories for our fans and make a positive impact within our community.
Editor: I have no doubt you will achieve your goals! Before we wrap up, what advice would you give to young athletes trying to balance their sports with education and personal challenges?
João Valido: Stay committed and passionate about your goals. It’s all about time management and maintaining a strong support network. Don’t be afraid to seek help or lean on your teammates, friends, and family. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity for growth.
Editor: Thank you for your time, João, and for sharing your insights and experiences. Best of luck in your studies and the upcoming season with Arouca!
João Valido: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure. I appreciate the support from everyone, and I’m excited for what lies ahead.