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120 years of blue and white history
The club has commemorated the date it was founded with different events over the day
120 years certainly deserve a celebration, because we should be proud of our origins, our history, our legacy and the present that we are writing and, above all, our future. Despite the adversities and difficulties arising from the current situation, and the fact it wasn't able to celebrate it with the whole parakeet family, the club wanted to commemorate this October 28 with different initiatives throughout the day.
The star of the 120th anniversary events was our founder: Angel Rodriguez. The club wanted to value the leading figure, and reclaim his vital role in RCD Espanyol's history. "We want to pay tribute and acknowledge our founder," said the CEO, José María Durán. "He founded the club, and helped to re-start its activity after a few years: he was always at the service of the club," he remarked. Durán also pointed out that "we are proud of our history and of all the people who have helped to write it."
After his presentation speech came the most emotional part of the ceremony. First, the plaque for the Ángel Rodríguez presidential box was uncovered, and then the founder's bust was inaugurated, which will preside over the President's Room.
The president of the Fundació, Antoni Fernández Teixidó, went with two ideas: legacy and the fans. “From Ángel Rodríguez to our smallest member, they are all part of our club's history," he said. Sculptor Ció Abellí stated that “Ángel Rodríguez planted the roots,” and added that “the bust reflects his entrepreneurial spirit”.
Before the great 120th anniversary ceremony, there was time to fulfil two traditions on the day of commemoration of the club's founding. Early in the morning, a delegation from the club, the Fundació and the FCPE travelled to Sant Gervasi cemetery to pay a heartfelt tribute to our founder, Ángel Rodríguez. Next, the media focus shifted to the statue of the fans, where a delegation from the club and other blue and white social agents also attended to offer a floral tribute.
RCD Espanyol continues celebrating anniversaries and playing a vital role in the world of sport, but also in society. The rebellious and nonconformist character of the parakeets assures us many more years of life.