The sport of basketball in Lleida boasts significant representation as four local figures are set to participate with the Catalan selection at the upcoming Campeonato de España for autonomous regions. This important tournament, slated to occur from January 3 to 7, will take place in Huelva, showcasing the talents of young athletes from across Spain.
Leading the charge is 12-year-old Biel Brugal, who plays for Força Lleida and will take part as part of the Catalan team for the infant category. Brugal, who narrowly missed the opportunity to compete at the mini level, is no stranger to success; he recently celebrated winning the national title with the Catalan 3x3 basketball team.
Brugal expressed his enthusiasm about the upcoming challenge, saying, "I’m excited to represent my region and look forward to making the most of this opportunity."
Accompanying Brugal are two seasoned coaches: Sergi Llurba and Lluís Biosca. Llurba, who has reached this milestone for the tenth time, will serve as the head coach of the infant girls' team. This role marks his fourth engagement at the forefront, having previously secured two gold medals and one bronze, achievements he is proud of. He emphasized the importance of building on past achievements, saying, "Our goal is to improve upon the fifth position this generation achieved as minis. We aim for at least the semifinals—then we’ll see from there, as the competition is fierce."
Biosca is set to conclude his tenure at the tournament, marking a decade of dedication. Undoubtedly feeling nostalgic, he aims to continue Lleida's tradition of excellence with the cadet girls' team. Throughout his time, he has earned five gold and five silver medals and noted, "Staying on the podium is our clear objective. We will strive for excellence and aim to be competitive."
Adding to this impressive representation is the referee Joan Pla, who has officiated at notable events, including the junior international tournament held in L'Hospitalet where he managed the semifinal between Real Madrid and the Lithuanian team Zalgiris. His selection signifies the high regard for Lleida’s officials at key basketball events.
The Campeonato de España serves not only as a proving ground for young athletes but also as an opportunity for coaches and officials to showcase their skills on larger stages. With Lleida’s representation strong and focused, supporters from the region are eager to witness how their teams will fare against some of the best young talent the country has to offer.
Overall, this showcase offers both Brugal and the seasoned coaches the chance to display the wealth of talent nurtured within the region, with hopes high for claiming victory and making their mark on Spain's basketball future.