The creation of As Celtas is seen as a crucial development in Spanish club Celta de Vigo’s history. It was initiated not just to satisfy public demand but because the club genuinely believes in the value and potential of women’s football. Xisela Aranda, a key figure in this project, highlights that As Celtas was conceived with its own identity to promote and grow women’s football.

WFS: How does the creation of As Celtas contribute to the growth and sustainability of women’s football in Vigo and Galicia?

The birth of As Celtas contributes to the growth and sustainability of women’s football in Vigo and Galicia by aiming to unite the entire Galician women’s football community rather than positioning itself as a competitor. The club seeks to be a role model and source of inspiration for young girls in the region, fostering a sense of community and enthusiasm through initiatives like football camps. This approach helps to build a supportive environment for the sport to flourish across all levels in Galicia.

By establishing a strong local presence with its own identity, based on its own roots, the club focuses on developing a robust youth academy, ensuring a steady flow of talent, and creating opportunities for local girls to engage with the sport. By building this club, As Celtas aims to nurture homegrown talent, inspire future generations, and position itself as a key player in the regional and national football landscape.

 

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WFS: You mentioned the goal of creating ‘the Celta of the next 100 years.’ How does the women’s team fit into this long-term vision for the club?

Marian Mouriño, President of RC Celta, has said on several occasions that the creation of As Celtas is a key part of the club’s long-term vision for the next 100 years. This initiative aligns with the club’s one hundredth anniversary, marking a significant evolution in its history. The women’s team was established in response to a longstanding demand from fans and is supported by a youth academy structure that ensures a steady development of female players. As Celtas is seen as essential to making the club more inclusive and future-oriented, reflecting Celta’s commitment to growing all aspects of the sport.

WFS: How important is the youth academy to this new project?

The youth academy is vital to As Celtas under the guiding principle of being «a project of opportunities.» This initiative is designed to provide young female athletes with the chance to develop their talents within a professional structure, ensuring a pipeline of local players who can progress through the ranks. The academy is not just about nurturing football skills, but also about fostering a sense of belonging and offering a pathway for girls to achieve their dreams, making it a cornerstone of the team’s long-term success.

WFS: How do you plan to engage and inspire the local community and young girls in Vigo and its surrounding areas to support and participate in this new women’s football initiative?

The club aims to make As Celtas a source of pride and aspiration, positioning the team as a role model for young girls, and demonstrating that there are opportunities to play and succeed in football. To engage and inspire the local community and young girls in Vigo and its surrounding areas, As Celtas plans to create a strong connection with the roots of Galicia, the values of the club, visibility, and active involvement. All of this includes organizing football camps, community events, and outreach programs that encourage participation and build enthusiasm for the sport, just like the Draft we made to choose the future “As Celtas”, the players who will be part of the club’s lower categories.

WFS: The team will debut next season in the Third Federation. What are the immediate and long-term objectives for As Celtas in terms of competitiveness and growth?

The immediate objective for As Celtas in their debut season in the Third Federation is to focus on giving their best effort each day, especially during training. The emphasis is on building a strong, competitive mindset without getting distracted by thoughts of promotion. The goal is naturally to ascend through the leagues, but this will be achieved by maintaining high standards and consistent performance in every session and match. Success is seen as a byproduct of dedication and daily effort rather than a singular focus on promotion.

«Success is seen as a byproduct of dedication and daily effort rather than a singular focus on promotion.»