For the second year in a row, the Bears traveled to Spain to host a series of mini-monster clinics to support the growth of soccer in international markets and educate children about the importance of a healthy lifestyle.
The Bears held 13 clinics in four cities from February 1-9. They returned to Badalona, Barcelona, Madrid and made their first stop in Valencia. More than 1,100 children attended a free 90-minute clinic that taught the fundamentals of American football through non-contact activities.
Bears youth and high school football manager Gustavo Silva will lead the program, and former Bears offensive lineman Roberto Garza also made a trip to Spain in 2023.
“We believe American football is the greatest team sport on earth, and we believe everyone should have access to it,” Silva said. “Our goal is to grow gaming by making it inclusive and accessible. Once kids have access to games and learn about them, they get hooked on them and want to play. I find myself wanting to continue to participate in American football, watch American football, and pursue being a Bears fan.”
Participating in the inaugural Mini Monster Clinic in Spain was a special moment for Garza after 14 seasons in the NFL, but his return in 2024 gives him an even greater sense of gratitude. Ta.
At the first of the group’s two clinics in Madrid, Garza was reunited with a child who also participated in Mini Monsters last year.
“He was like, ‘Do you remember me?’ I was like, ‘Yeah! ’” Garza said. “He said, ‘I’m still playing flag football. I’m getting better. I play running back and center sometimes.’ Participating in these camps all over Spain has helped him grow his game. , it was a great opportunity to be a part of something the children will remember.
“The kids are enjoying being in the program. They’re having fun and learning about flag football. They’re getting outside and getting healthy and exercising and having fun outside with their friends and learning teamwork and pushing each other.” The message of learning to fit in is great,’ and go out and have fun. ”