The six-day
Goalkeeping Training Camp, organized by RGS (Rethymno Goalkeeping School)
in collaboration with REA, was completed with outstanding success. The
camp took place from June 22 to June 27 at the Sohora Municipal
Stadium.
For six
consecutive days, dozens of boys and girls participated enthusiastically,
demonstrating their passion for football and the unique role of the goalkeeper.
Through a modern and demanding training program, the young athletes had the
opportunity to improve their technical and tactical skills, gain valuable
experience, and, above all, enjoy the game in a safe, positive, and creative
environment.
A key
factor in the camp's success was the contribution of the school's coaching
staff: Vangelis Kerentzis, Antonis Platis, Antonis Kelaidis, Christos
Despotopoulos, Manolis Linardakis, and Nikos Anomerianakis, who
worked with consistency, professionalism, and genuine care for the young
participants.
Special
recognition also goes to Eirini Manoukaraki, who played an active role
in both the organization and the day-to-day operation of the camp, making a
significant contribution to its successful execution.
One of the
highlights of the event was the presence of former Greek international
goalkeeper and former Greece National Team goalkeeping coach Fanis
Katergiannakis. He spent time with the children, shared stories and
experiences from his distinguished career, answered their questions, and
inspired them to pursue their dreams through hard work and dedication. During
the event, he was also honored for his outstanding contribution to Greek
football.
As part of
the closing ceremony, honorary awards were presented to REA President
Heraklis Manoukarakis in recognition of his continuous support for the
development of football and the education of young athletes, as well as to Eirini
Manoukaraki for her valuable contribution to the organization of the camp.
All
participants also received commemorative certificates of participation as a
reward for their effort, commitment, and dedication throughout the week.
ANTONIS
PLATIS: "THE GREATEST SUCCESS WASN'T THE SAVES—IT WAS THE SPARKLE IN THE
CHILDREN'S EYES."
Following
the conclusion of the camp, co-organizer and REA goalkeeping coach Antonis
Platis stated:
"*I
am truly happy with what we experienced once again this year. For six days, we
created something far greater than just a goalkeeping school. We created an
environment where children felt they belonged to a team that genuinely loves
the goalkeeping position.*
*The
greatest success wasn't the saves or the training drills. It was seeing the
children's eagerness to learn, their willingness to ask questions, to keep
trying, to support one another, and to leave every day better than when they
arrived.*
*Talent
certainly exists—and in abundance. What truly makes the difference, however, is
determination. I saw children who never gave up during any exercise, who
learned from their mistakes and immediately tried again. That is the mindset
that builds tomorrow's great goalkeepers, but more importantly, responsible and
resilient individuals.*
*I would
like to thank the school's Head Coach, Vangelis Kerentzis, as well as
coaches Antonis Kelaidis, Christos Despotopoulos, Manolis Linardakis,
and Nikos Anomerianakis, together with Eirini Manoukaraki for her
invaluable contribution to the organization and daily operation of the school.
Every one of them played an important role in ensuring that the children
enjoyed a truly memorable experience.*
*It was a
great honor to welcome Fanis Katergiannakis. He didn't come simply as a
distinguished former international goalkeeper, but above all as an exceptional
person. He spoke with the children, shared his experiences, and gave them
valuable motivation for the future.*
*I would
also like to sincerely thank REA WFC, and especially its President, Heraklis
Manoukarakis, for his trust and continuous support of our efforts. My
thanks also go to all the football academies that placed their confidence in
our work by sending their goalkeepers to our school.*
*The
journey of RGS does not end here. Player evaluations, additional training
sessions, and new initiatives will follow, as our goal is to provide the young
goalkeepers of Rethymno with even more opportunities to develop and reach their
full potential.*
*Finally,
I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all the parents for their trust
and unwavering support. Without them, no effort made for the benefit of
children could ever succeed.*
The story continues..."
