“These events are what make Valencian society and Valencianismo identify more with the Club” | OneFootball

Valencia CF paid tribute at Mestalla to members with more than 50 years of uninterrupted membership. One of these special stories is that of Héctor Villalba and his family.

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A feeling

“50 years coming to Mestalla, 50 years officially being part of Valencia CF because, before having a season ticket, we were already Valencia CF supporters. These events are what make Valencian society and Valencianismo identify more with the Club.”

50 years as a season ticket holder

“The first year, before retiring, I was a teacher and I got my first contract in Sollana. At that time there was not all the technology that nowadays makes things easier and, in the end, I received my September, October, November and December salary in December. Everything we earned was given to our parents at home. I would tell them how much I had earned, but I asked them to save a little for me so I could get my season ticket at Mestalla. In those days, it was not by season but by calendar year. I got my first one 50 years ago and it was thanks to what my parents allowed me to save from my first salary as a teacher.”

From parents to children and grandchildren

“My wife and my daughters have season tickets at Mestalla, we are all in the North Stand. When I started, this renovation did not exist and I was in Sector 8, next to a supporters’ group called ‘Colorista’. Later, we spoke with the Valencia CF offices and more than twenty people from Almussafes managed to be together and sit in the same area. Those who were parents then are now children and grandchildren.”

“It was a European competition match against SS Lazio that we won 5-2 and that combination of goals, the dynamics of the match and an extraordinary competition make it my best memory.”