Athenea del Castillo: Embracing Challenges with a Smile
A Competitive Spirit
Athenea del Castillo, born in Solares in 2000, has become a prominent figure in women’s football, known for her infectious smile despite being nicknamed “vinagre” (sour) and “gruñilda” (grumpy) by her teammates at Real Madrid when things don’t go as planned. Describing herself, she states, “I am happy.” This positivity is crucial as she manages to balance her competitive nature with a strong mental game.
The Journey to the National Team
Athenea faced initial challenges in her career, including being left out of the first national team squad. Instead of letting this setback affect her, she focused on mental preparation, understanding that such moments are part of her professional journey. “It’s about management,” she reflects, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a professional approach even in tough times. Her determination paid off when she received a last-minute call-up on her birthday, showcasing her resilience.
Adapting to a New Role
As a key player for both Real Madrid and the national team, Athenea has adapted to playing as a revulsivo, or game-changer. She acknowledges that every player, including substitutes, plays an integral role in the game’s dynamics. “I want to play the full 90 minutes,” she admits, but recognizes the necessity of learning to manage her expectations. This maturity in understanding team tactics and coach strategies also reflects her growth over the past five years.
Mental Health and Performance
Athenea openly discusses her journey with mental health, particularly how working with a psychologist has transformed her approach. The pressures of competing frequently for both club and country initially left her emotionally drained. “I could carry my anger home after a loss,” she recalls, recognizing the toll this took on her performance. By working through these emotions, she learned to separate her professional life from her personal feelings, becoming a more balanced athlete.
Leadership and Mentorship
Now the captain of Real Madrid, Athenea feels a responsibility to guide younger players through the ups and downs of professional football. She shares her experiences candidly, encouraging them to harness their competitive nature while also learning to enjoy the game. “It can hinder enjoyment,” she admits, reflecting on times when her drive led to excessive pressure.
The Significance of the Number 7
Athenea proudly wears the iconic number 7 jersey, previously donned by legends like Cristiano Ronaldo and Raúl. “It’s the most important number in Real Madrid history,” she asserts. This symbolizes not just her ambition but also a connection to the rich legacy of the club she has always dreamed of representing.
Focusing on the Future
As she prepares for upcoming challenges, including the Nations League final against Germany, Athenea knows the need to keep a focused mindset while leveraging past experiences. “We have goals, and every game is an opportunity,” she notes. Despite the competitive atmosphere in football, particularly concerning rival teams, she maintains a single-minded approach focused on her performance and that of her team.
Taking Criticism in Stride
Regarding her occasional controversies, including reactions to her photo with her boyfriend at Cuelgamuros, Athenea remains unfazed. “It makes me laugh,” she says of the attention surrounding her persona. Rather than letting criticism affect her, she emphasizes the importance of feedback that contributes to her personal and professional growth.
Conclusion
Athenea del Castillo stands as a beacon for young footballers, not just for her on-field skills but for her approach to personal development. By embracing both her competitive spirit and mental health journey, she continues to inspire others both within and outside of the football community.