JAKARTA - For the first time, FC Barcelona's famous academy - La Masia - welcomes female players. Barcelona has had training programs for young women footballers in the past, but not at La Masia, where the boys train.
At an event attended by Barcelona's dignitaries, including club president Joan Laporta, the club officially welcomed a group of young female footballers to their academy.
Lolita Ortiz, former captain and one of the pioneers of the Barça Women team - Alexi Putellas, current captain of Barça Women, and Alba Caño, one of the new students to join La Masia, were also present.
“The conditions in which they can work now are luxurious. When we started, it was very different," Ortiz said at the event.
“At La Masia, they develop not only footballers but also people. Barca took a firm step towards equality. All these steps are important and they make 'More Than a Club' even more great - we are an example to follow and it is an honor to wear this shirt," said Putellas.
“We want to thank the Board of Directors for listening to new proposals and taking steps to improve the tools we have to work in the best possible way,” he added.
Caño, who is 17 years old, also spoke.
“I am proud to be part of the first generation of women at La Masia, and this is a huge step forward for women's football at this club. We feel special and we want to thank everyone who has made it possible," he said.
Laporta is here to once again declare its commitment to women's football.
"It's a proud moment to be involved with Barca on a day like today where we can watch the locals come together on this historic occasion. The Club has opened the door to gender equality, which is entirely related to 'More than just a Club', and we must always stay true to that idea," he said.
Nine girls will join La Masia this year where they hope to break into the Barcelona women's team.
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