Family and friends of Luis Mazo of Elche gathered to honor his memory as they prepared to say goodbye. He had been serving as the director of the football schools at the David Villa academy in New York, where the farewell was scheduled for this afternoon at 17:00 at the Hotel Hort de Nal.
Luis Mazo passed away recently in the American city where he had lived for more than six years. The Elche native had spent a year and a half working with Villa’s organization, and his loss has left his family, friends, and colleagues reeling. A crowdfunding effort was launched to help cover funeral expenses for his loved ones.
Prior to his current role, Mazo spent two years coaching at the Sevilla FC academy in New Jersey. He also co-founded and directed the company Sports Visions, a communications agency focusing on digital outreach for football professionals.
Mazo also led the One Touch Football Coaches Academy project as its director, and he served as project coordinator and manager for facilities used by Atletico de Madrid and Real Madrid. He contributed as an instructor at the National Football Coaches Training Center, sharing his expertise with aspiring coaches.
Beyond his administrative and coaching work, Mazo remained a recognizable figure in the sports community of the region. He was associated with Kelme and Santa Pola as a fitness professional, maintaining strong connections with local football circles. Several organizations, including Elche and Sevilla, expressed their condolences to his family. In the days ahead, organizers planned to unveil a large mural featuring photos of Luis alongside friends and colleagues to honor his legacy at the event today. (attribution: local sports communities and press reports)