“I promise I will honour this title by highlighting the virtues of Villa until the last day.” Less than a year after he starred in the proclamation of the Apple Festival (8 October 2021), Marcelino García Toral received the distinction of Favorite Son of Villaviciosa. A solemn act was held at the Riera Theater during the town festivities of Our Lady of the Portal.
The mayor, Alejandro Vega, offered the manager the title of Favorite Son and the commemorative diploma of a day that will remain forever in Marcelino’s memory. Born 57 years ago into a simple family from Careñes (Villaviciosa council), the Asturian coach has never missed the opportunity to promote all the benefits of his native land.
This continuous work as an ambassador has run parallel to his sporting successes. Champion of the Copa del Rey with Valencia and the Spanish Super Cup with Athletic, he has achieved promotion to the First Division with Recreativo, Zaragoza and Villarreal, among other merits. All this has configured a framework of more than enough reasons for his appointment as Favorite Son. Promoted by CD Lealtad (the club with which he had his first experience as a coach and with which he achieved promotion), the Villaviciosa City Council approved the recognition last spring.
Kind words to his loved ones
The event was inspiring, with the presence of family and friends. In his acceptance speech, Marcelino said a few words for his mother, wife and son. He fondly remembered his father: “Today, I am convinced he will be proud that his son has been distinguished with this award”.
Manuel Tuero, a friend of Marcelino, stressed “his commitment and his passion for work.” He also highlighted his main virtues: “He has an innate generosity. He is a bit stubborn, has strength and takes responsibility. Also, he does not tolerate injustices.” The mayor praised the coach’s commitment to his land: “He is proud to be Asturian and proud to be from Villaviciosa and Careñes, wherever he goes. He has visited many places and many more in his successful career.”
Muy agradecido por este honor con el que me han distinguido hoy mis vecinos de Villaviciosa. Un día especial y grandes emociones para mi familia, que recordaré para siempre @AytoVillaAst pic.twitter.com/M8XBWYb0uH
— Marcelino Garcia Toral (@Marcelino) September 10, 2022