EÓN Horneo’s honorary president Alicante stepped forward by resigning from the club presidency during the summer. Six months on, he shares how the transition felt and how he views the new leadership guided by Fernando Latorre.
Question: After three months of competition, the Christmas break arrives. How does he assess the silverware prospects?
Reply: He sees a team that performs well in the roles it plays and in balancing senior and younger players. The squad shows strong potential for the future. Coupled with a top coaching staff, this combination yields a highly optimistic outlook.
Q: What stands out about the new squad?
A: Three qualities stand out: first, a fighting spirit that does not quit in a losing game and keeps pressing until the final whistle; second, an exceptional work ethic and willingness to sacrifice; and most importantly, the humility they display, which will help them mature as players and as people.
Question: How is this year different after years spent as club president?
A: He misses the daily contact with teams and coaches. Yet the extra time now available helps him address work and personal priorities that require attention.
Question: Do matches feel less heated?
A: Not at all. The passion remains, and nerves stay on edge. He experiences the same intense thrill when watching them compete, albeit with a touch more control, like enjoying a spicy dish while recognizing the heat.
Question: What did he miss most?
A: The direct contact with players and coaching staff, the great people behind the scenes, and the individuals responsible for various club aspects. That regular presence is deeply missed.
Question: The club set up an important step this summer with the Foundation. What is his view?
A: It marks one of the most exciting moments since this journey began. The foundation had been planned for years, but its formal establishment faced delays, especially during the pandemic. Building the foundation was essential to advance the social side of the club, something a standalone team could not achieve alone. They owe much of their progress to the strong support from society and institutions.
Q: And the inclusive department that made history—how does he see that achievement?
A: It reflects both the effort invested and the reward earned, the DNA of the club. Competing remains central, but certain values must always guide that competition, and witnessing these influencers play enriches everyone involved.
Question: You have long described yourself as a president who wants universal inclusion, a base in Alicante, and a sense of belonging for all. Has that vision matured over the years?
A: Progress has been made, though not complete. In the handball community, there is a belief that Alicante deserves a top team. If the club had remained a school-focused program, progress would have been limited. Today, the club exists more firmly and advances each year. Foundations are being laid with university clubs that want to join the journey, and a new training system is developed by collaborating with the handball school and local public schools. Yet there are many who offered support in the past who are still missed, and their voices are invited to participate in this ongoing reality. It is a call for active involvement rather than empty talk because sustained support is needed now.
Question: What hopes are set for 2024?
A: The same wishes as every year—health for everyone and the joy of watching strong handball at a high level. With that, goals become more achievable and progress follows.
Question: Is this transition definitive, or might Pepe Sánchez return to the front lines for a while longer?
A: He jokes that he is currently on the bench. He started with no head-start in leading a club and has learned a lot through hands-on experience. Decisions are often made on the fly, but always with the club’s best interests in mind. Critics from outside can rest easy when they recognize that the team and staff are giving their best, and the club publicly acknowledges their efforts. They have Ñago and many teammates on the track, delivering their best, and the rest of the group can only offer support and gratitude.