The country's most modern sports arena ready to host Sporting CP

The 21st of June 2017, which is curiously exactly 15 years since the opening of the Sporting Academy, will be remembered as the day that the João Rocha Arena officially opened its doors to the public.

The ceremony got underway at 17h00 with the inauguration of the Visconde de Alvalade roundabout (between the arena and the stadium), proudly showing the words of president Bruno de Carvalho: "Talent is needed, but only with hard work, fighting spirit, drive, attitude and dedication to this club's objectives will be be champions."

The ceremony was attended by hundreds of well known Sporting CP personalities and also saw the president of the Lisbon Municipal Council, Fernando Medina, take to the stage to share his thoughts: "We shouldn't be scared to state facts. This is an historic moment for this great institution and for our city. I remember very well the world's best ever hockey team: "Ramalhete, Rendeiro, Sobrinho, Chana and Livramento. The fantasies of every Sporting CP fans are packed full of athletes who have been fundamental across a range of sports. Sporting CP is a massive part of Portuguese sport."

Bruno de Carvalho himself took on the role as presenter, calling up to the stage various people who have played a crucial part in building the arena, including the German architect Andreas Moerschel.

Sporting CP scouting hero Aurélio Pereira given Lisbon award

Estádio Universitário de Lisboa hosted a fitting ceremony in tribute to Sporting CP scouting legend Aurélio Pereira this weekend. Alvalade's chief scout was awarded with the Lisbon Municipal Medal for Sports Merit by city mayor Fernando Medina, in a ceremony attended by Bruno de Carvalho and representatives of Sporting CP's various youth sides.

“I think that more important than receiving awards is deserving them. Everything I have done throughout my career was always guided by the club's values and with a lot of respect for young players. That was key in getting the lads to show their qualities. Friendship and respect have always been the most important things to me", said Pereira after the ceremony.

Lisbon mayor Fernando Medina was also on hand to explain the decision behind the award: "It is really fair that the city of Lisbon should give this award. Aurélio Pereira has given a lot to our city and out country, both in terms of training the icons of Portuguese football and in terms of training thousands of young players and passing on the values that make them into better citizens."