A tale OF AMBITION, GROWTH, AND INCLUSION IN EUROPEAN WOMEN’S FOOTBALL
Berlin, a city known for its rich history and vibrant culture, played host to the prestigious European Club Association (ECA) General Assembly from September 5th to 7th. This gathering of the most influential clubs in European football was a remarkable event
for Gibraltar Wave FC, a club founded just over two years ago. Invited to join the new ECA Network, Gibraltar Wave FC seized the opportunity to showcase its journey from a nascent
club to a promising entity in European football. The presence of John Gontier, Founder and Chairman of Gibraltar Wave FC, along with Managing Director Heiko Mock, was a
testament to the club’s ambition and commitment to growth of women’s football and especially in Gibraltar.
Gibraltar Wave FC’s rise in the footballing world has been nothing short of astonishing. Founded in March 2021, this young club quickly made its mark in the local football scene. The passion and dedication of its founders and members, led by John Gontier, propelled Gibraltar Wave FC to success on the pitch.
The club’s mission has always been clear: to provide a platform for talented players in Gibraltar to showcase their abilities on a broader stage.
THE ECA NETWORK INVITATION: A GAME-CHANGER
The ECA Network, a newly established initiative by the European Club Association, aims to connect clubs from across Europe, fostering collaboration, and knowledge sharing. It is
designed to provide a platform for clubs to exchange ideas, forge partnerships, and collectively contribute to the growth of European football.
It is a Network for Aspiring Club of Europe who cannot be an ordinary or associated member yet.
Gibraltar Wave FC’s invitation to join the ECA Network was a pivotal moment in the club’s journey. It marked recognition of the club’s potential and its commitment to being an active participant in the European football community. John Gontier and Heiko Mock, the driving forces behind Gibraltar Wave FC, attended the ECA General Assembly in Berlin to represent their club on this prestigious platform.
“I have been in contact with ECA since a couple of months. I wanted to find out if it is possible to participate in their new women’s football initiative.
I initially got a rejection. We were all the more delighted when I received the invitation to the General Assembly in my inbox. It was immediately clear to John and me that we would
both be there.” ,said Heiko Mock.
“We had a chance to meet so many interesting people from European Football. I had the chance to exchange a few words with Gaizka Mendieta or to talk with Nasser Al-Khelaifi.”, adds John Gontier.
“But the most iconic moment was Heiko Mock having a conversation with Nasser Al-Khelaifi (Chairman of ECA), Aleksander Čeferin (President of UEFA) and Natalie Portman (Actress and Co-Founder Angel City FC) and I took this amazing photo.”, continues John Gontier.
GIBRALTAR WAVE FC’S VISION FOR THE FUTURE
At the ECA General Assembly, John Gontier and Heiko Mock shared their vision for Gibraltar Wave FC’s future.
They emphasized the club’s commitment to developing women’s football, promoting football in Gibraltar, and contributing to the European football landscape.
They also expressed their eagerness to collaborate with other clubs and organizations
within the ECA Network.
Through partnerships and exchanges of expertise, Gibraltar Wave FC aims to enhance its own capabilities and make a meaningful contribution to the growth and development of European football.
CONCLUSION
Gibraltar Wave FC’s journey from a new club in Gibraltar to an active participant in the European Club Association’s Network is a testament to the power of ambition, dedication, and a strong sense of community. John Gontier, Founder and Chairman, and Managing Director Heiko Mock have taken their club to the heart of European football in just a short span of time.
As Gibraltar Wave FC continues to grow and make strides in the world of football, its story serves as an inspiring example for aspiring clubs and football enthusiasts alike. With a commitment to girls development in the future and a strong community focus, Gibraltar Wave FC is poised to make a positive impact not only in Gibraltar but also on the broader European football stage. Their presence at the ECA General Assembly in Berlin is a clear indication that they are on the right path to achieving their ambitious goals in the world of football.
