The initiative, organized by the Veterans Association of Hércules de Alicante and friends of Luis, is supported by the Sports Department of the Novelda City Council. The main objective is to use football, one of Martínez's great passions, to raise awareness about Parkinson's disease, with which he currently lives.
The Councilor for Sports, Carlos Vizcaíno, and the president of the Veterans Association of Hércules, Javier Espejo, presented the match. The idea originated from Raúl Gallardo, a former Novelda CF player and a colleague and friend of Luis.
Vizcaíno highlighted that the match on September 19th will be "an event that goes beyond sport; it's a gathering to support and raise awareness for Parkinson's disease," as well as an opportunity to recognize Luis Martínez's career and his approach to the illness. The municipal official emphasized that it is about "recognizing Luis ‘El Pasiego’, an athlete who lives with the disease and has taught us that in the face of difficulties, one must move forward with strength, enthusiasm, and a smile."
For his part, Espejo stressed the commitment of the Veterans Association of Hércules to initiatives that use sports to support social causes. "Although we no longer score goals on the field, we score them in life, joining causes that need a platform," he stated.
Football will serve as the platform to raise awareness for Parkinson's, especially when it affects young people. Espejo highlighted the parallel between sports practice and the fight against the disease, noting that "every day you have to compete and try to win the match."
The match will bring together former teammates and friends of Luis Martínez at La Magdalena for a day that will combine sports, recognition, and awareness, aiming for public participation. The organization has thanked various companies for their collaboration in making this event possible.
