Athletic Club players make traditional festive visits to local hospitals

Athletic Club first-team players visited children at local hospitals in Bilbao on Tuesday afternoon.

These visits have become a holiday tradition, with the Lions and Lionesses also bringing special gifts for the hospitalised children, who can barely hide their joy and excitement upon meeting their favourite players.

This is one of several initiatives that the Athletic Club Foundation organises in collaboration with Osakidetza (Basque Health Service) and IMQ to support young people during their stay in healthcare centres.

 

Athletic Club as a symbol of hope

Just like with Corridor Football – which sees the footballers play mini matches with the kids – the players' appearance is often the best gift of all for these children.. 

During the visit, the footballers hand out presents, take photographs and sign autographs, but nothing compares to their company. Meeting the footballers is a moment of hope for the little ones and gives them a huge boost during their recovery.

There's no better way to celebrate Tuesday's open training session at San Mames than remembering the kids that aren't able to attend. 

This is the Athletic way.