Friends have already won title in five echelons

The CAB has become regional champion of five different ranks. At a time when the final stages of competition of some age groups are still taking place, the Basketball Friends have already secured first place in the Mini-12 Male, Mini-12 Female, Sub-14 Female, Sub-14 Male and Sub-16 Female ranks. The sixth regional title, especially in the Senior Males, may arrive as early as next week, when the CAB faces Funchal's Hours in the last playoff game of that rank, with the victory of the club of Nazareth being a very plausible scenario given the history of 'red and white' victories recorded throughout the season in the clashes between these two formations. The titles won, which affirm the quality of the work carried out in the CAB Training classes, are precious additions to the great winning history of the Nazaré club. In the specific case of the sub-14 and sub-16 classes, the results obtained guarantee the access of the Friends of the Basketball to the national competitions of the respective ranks. Already in the ranks of Male Seniors, the possible victory of Friends will give the CAB the sport right to participate, in the next season, in the National Basketball Competition (CNB-1). Remember that last year the CAB received from the Portuguese Basketball Federation (FPB) the Training Club Statute. The recognition, which has only been awarded to seven Portuguese clubs throughout the history of the Federation, recognizes the excellence of basketball players. Already this year, on the occasion of the celebration of the 35 years of existence of the CAB, Manuel Fernandes, president of the FPB, referred to the training schools of Friends, classifying them as "a nursery for young talents of national basketball". In statements to the CAB's Official Website, Francisco Gomes, president of the club's management, recognized the regional titles won so far as the product of a Training philosophy that is not exhausted in the conquest of titles but which aims, above all, to train children and young people for the future of society. For Francisco Gomes, "The titles happen because we don't live obsessed with them. Our mission is to train for basketball, but essentially for life. To this end, we try to convey values such as work, dedication and respect for all, values, which ultimately lead to success." In addition, Francisco Gomes highlights the family spirit of the club, referring, "Our achievements are the reflection of the athletes' work, but also of the great commitment of coaches and those in charge of education. Working together and always maintaining a posture of humility we build the palmares of this great club and showing that Sport is not only worth the competition, but also for the values we instill in children and young people who wear our sweater."