Oviedo, Spain – Alimerka Oviedo Baloncesto recently paused to recognize the vital contributions of women both on and off the court, hosting an event to coincide with International Women’s Day. The Primera FEB team’s initiative sparked a conversation about the growing role of women in all facets of sports, from management and organization to broadcasting and beyond.
The event, held on Wednesday, featured a roundtable discussion moderated by journalist Carmen Menéndez. It was opened by Fernando García, the club’s director general, and Miryam Hernández, director of the Asturian Institute for the Prevention of Occupational Hazards. The discussion highlighted the diverse paths women are forging in the sports world.
Among the panelists were Loreto Matilla, a sports journalist; Paula Bergel, director of Alimerka Oviedo Baloncesto’s youth academy and a former player; and Manuela Ena Fernández, director general of Sports for the Principality of Asturias. Conchita Méndez, the Councilor for Sports in Oviedo, also attended the event. Each woman shared insights from her unique career trajectory, demonstrating the breadth of opportunities available within the industry.
The Primera FEB team will further demonstrate its commitment to recognizing women’s contributions by wearing a special purple uniform during their Saturday match against Caesa Cartagena, scheduled for 7:00 PM local time (19:00 CET). The gesture aims to raise awareness and celebrate International Women’s Day on the court.
Alimerka Oviedo Baloncesto, founded in 2004, currently competes in the Spanish Primera FEB league. The team, known for its blue and white colors, is led by head coach Javier Rodriguez. Key players currently on the roster include Raul Lobaco, Alonso Faure, Marques Townes, Calvin Hermanson, and Daniil Shelist, among others. The club has undergone recent administrative changes, with Fernando García Céspedes appointed as the new director general in 2026, succeeding Héctor Galán after 18 years of service within the organization.
García Céspedes, a long-time employee of the club, brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having previously served as a coach, youth academy director, and operational manager. He holds a National Basketball Coaching license, a degree in Business Administration, and a Master’s degree in Sports Management. The club has indicated that a complete restructuring of the organizational chart will be announced in the coming days.
The event at the Ramón Pérez de Ayala Public Library in Oviedo underscored a growing trend within the sports world: a deliberate effort to acknowledge and elevate the roles of women. The conversation extended beyond simply recognizing female athletes to encompass the essential work done by women in administration, journalism, and leadership positions. This focus on inclusivity reflects a broader societal shift and a commitment to creating a more equitable landscape within sports.
Alimerka Oviedo Baloncesto’s initiative serves as a reminder that the success of any sports organization relies on the dedication and expertise of individuals from all backgrounds. By highlighting the contributions of women, the club is not only celebrating their achievements but also inspiring future generations to pursue careers in the sports industry.
The team’s next confirmed action is their home game against Caesa Cartagena on Saturday, where they will wear the commemorative purple uniforms. Fans can follow updates and further information on the club’s official Facebook page and through other official channels.
What are your thoughts on Alimerka Oviedo Baloncesto’s initiative? Share your comments below and let us know how you think sports organizations can continue to promote inclusivity and recognize the contributions of women in the industry.
