The toll to professionalism is over: Antioquia League's bid to clean up football
Antioquia's amateur football is on its way to regaining the national hegemony it once held, backed by a management team that has driven the metamorphosis the fans demanded in the last three years. Its current president, Dr. Federico Upegui, who has experience with Atlético Nacional and Colombia's youth teams, leads an ambitious program with the executive committee that combines sports and social aspects.
TL;DR
- The Liga Antioqueña de Fútbol has undergone a major transformation in the last three years, improving its sporting, economic, administrative, and labor aspects.
- The league is focusing on forming individuals by training coaches and managers, supporting players' families with employment opportunities, and instilling values.
- Antioquia has regained its dominance in national amateur football, winning championships in U-15, U-17, and U-21 categories, with 80% of its players being local.
- Efforts are being made to combat corruption, specifically the practice of players paying to join selections or progress professionally.
- The league is addressing issues of parental violence in tournaments through education and psychological support.
- Preventive health measures, including electrocardiograms and accident insurance, are being implemented to mitigate sudden deaths and serious injuries in young players.
- The league has moved from a significant deficit to a substantial surplus, demonstrating financial stability through rigorous management and sponsorships.
- Nutritional support is being developed to address the precarious eating habits of some talented young players.