In an inspiring tale of dedication, perseverance, and passion, Coach Andrey Valerio has come full circle in his beach soccer journey. Twenty-two years after introducing the sport to the university games, where they proudly represented Rio Grande do Norte, Valerio’s vision and passion for the sport paved the way for the inaugural Brazilian University Beach Soccer Championship.

From his humble beginnings as a coach to his current role as a mentor and leader, Valerio’s story is a shining example of the power of hard work, determination, and a love for the beautiful game. He was the first recipient of the best coach award in Brazil, presented by the confederation during the 2010 Brazilian Championship in São Paulo. He also spent six years abroad, coaching the national teams of Venezuela and Uruguay, and led the Brazilian national team from 2001 to 2003.

We had the privilege of sitting down with Coach Valerio to hear more about his remarkable journey, his vision for the future of beach soccer, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. When asked about his motivation to introduce beach soccer to the university games in 2002, Coach Valerio replied,

“I had a strong foundation in university sports, having been an athlete, coach, and manager. In 2002, I was training the main Brazilian team, and with the university games being held in the Northeast, I proposed the inclusion of beach soccer to the Brazilian university confederation, which was accepted.”

Two decades later, Coach Valerio returns to the competition, this time facing off against the university team he once led to victory. The team’s journey is a testament to Coach Valerio’s unwavering commitment to beach soccer and his ability to inspire generations of athletes. He expressed his excitement about returning to the championship with his current team, saying,

“I’m back with the same team from my state, with which I participated in the first university competition of the modality. We were Brazilian vice-champions, and that’s the main reason I accepted the university’s proposal to lead the team in the state championship, which we won, earning our place in the games.”

As the team prepares to take on the best university teams in Brazil, Coach Valerio shared his goals and aspirations and reflected on his coaching style and approach,

“My goal is to enable these athletes to continue practising the sport. They’re highly motivated, and I’m sure they’ll make a great contribution to the future of beach soccer.”

“When I started in beach soccer, I brought my experience as an athlete and futsal coach. I’ve always been focused on study, research, and training, and I’ve implemented changes in the way the modality is played.”

With a rich history in the sport, Coach Valerio has played a pivotal role in shaping the university beach soccer landscape. As the team prepares for the competition, he offered words of wisdom to young athletes,

“Always seek excellence and never give up on your goals. Despite the challenges, continue seeking and trusting that changes will happen.”

The national competition is scheduled to take place in Rio de Janeiro from August 19 to 26, and promises to be an exciting showcase of talent. BSmag is honoured to share this remarkable story, celebrating Coach Valerio’s achievements his the team’s dedication to the sport they love. We wish them the best of luck in the championship and look forward to witnessing their triumphant return to the University Beach Soccer scene.