Villar and Del Bosque highlight the weight and historical legacy of Hercules in Alicante
In Alicante, a day of celebration marked the centennial journey of Hercules with a gathering that brought together two thousand spectators. The event unfolded at the Rico Pérez stadium, where fans saw a friendly match pitting Hercules against a respected Spanish team. The atmosphere was electric as many cherished figures from Hercules’ blue and white history returned to the spotlight, drawing generous applause from a crowd that cherishes the club’s golden era and enduring heritage. The day featured the presence of Enrique Ortiz, the substantial shareholder, who rejoined the scene and added to the significance of this historic milestone.
For many, the reunion carried an emotional weight. The legacy was embodied by Manolo Jiménez and Quique Hernández, symbols of the club’s most joyful times. Their return underscored the enduring affection fans hold for the heroes who shaped Hercules’ past successes. The legends bench included two coaches and a team of former players who joined the fans in celebrating a club that continues to remember its triumphs with pride. Football figures such as Stephen Vigo also attended, recalling the unforgettable promotion to the First Division achieved in 2010 and reinforcing the pillar role of Hercules in the local football narrative.
As the day unfolded, Fernando Giner and Paquito were seen just before the kickoff, embodying the community’s lifelong connection to the club. The Rico Pérez stadium, filled with supporters and former stars, showcased Hercules’ identity in its essence. The event brought together the sense of belonging that defines the club in the fourth tier and the presence of Peña Deportiva, while also highlighting the broader mythos that surrounds the blue and white colors. Attendees shared memories at a long table with respected figures such as Carcelén, Del Bosque, and Villar, a reminder of the enduring links between past and present. Giuliano, celebrated as one of Hercules’ finest, joined the gathering, and names like Aguilar, Reces, Cartagena, Marcos, Escribano, Guayo, Benito Sánchez, Luismi, and many others appeared, underscoring the wide network of people who keep the Hercules story alive. Though there were moments of disappointment, the prevailing mood was celebratory: legendary players impressed the crowd, and Portillo delivered a highlight by scoring a goal after a decisive save by the opposition’s goalkeeper, a moment that resonated with the audience. The sense of unity and shared history was palpable throughout the proceedings.
The day also carried a celebratory note for the centennial program. The event illustrated the club’s deep-rooted connection to its city and its fans, who continue to stand with Hercules through every era. The collective memory, built over decades, remains a touchstone for new generations discovering the thrill of blue and white colors. The match served not only as entertainment but as a reaffirmation of the club’s identity and its ongoing relevance in Alicante’s sporting landscape.
Another highlight of the centennial actions occurred in San Nicolás, where a ceremonial proposal captured the imagination of fans. The moment honored Rafael García, a leading member of Hercules, whose dedication and service were celebrated by the club and the organizing team. The tribute day created a path that linked the club’s historical milestones with its current initiatives, reinforcing the sense of continuity that fans have come to expect from Hercules. The cheerful energy of the event contrasted with the challenge presented by the opposing legends team, which began the game with a 0-3 lead. Hercules responded with a revived tempo, finding two goals from Alejandro Varela and Portillo to level the score at 3-3. A decisive save by Toño sealed a memorable moment of the match, emphasizing the resilience and competitive spirit that defines Hercules’ centennial celebrations.