Community Connection Interview with Alfredo Valente
Who is Alfredo Valente?
For my COL Community Connections project, I decided to interview Alfredo Valente. He is currently the Technical Director of the Coquitlam Metro Ford
Soccer Club. He played for the Vancouver Whitecaps for eleven seasons, and indoor soccer with the Edmonton Drillers. He also played for the Canadian world cup team. 
In terms of working for the club, he organizes many distinct aspects, and keeps the metro ford club running smoothly.
Why did I choose Alfredo Valente?
I choose to interview Alfredo Valente because I currently play for metro ford soccer club, and I have not had the chance to communicate with him before this interview, but he plays such a key role in organizing and running the club.
I spend a lot of my time playing, practicing, watching, and just overall being in the soccer community. It has always been something that I have loved playing, and I know this goes the same for Mr. Valente. I also think that being in that role myself would be interesting since I find that I can organize myself quite well, and I am able to get things done.
What have I learned from this interview?
I learned many things from this interview, including more about the history of Mr. Valente’s career and how he runs the club. I also learned more about his point of view on sport and on the club, which relates to me because I think of soccer as a sport that I would like to continue to play even later on in my life as I move into adulthood. I think that it is a special sport to many people because, like Mr. Valente said, it helps people meet new friends and form connections, as well as helps people’s health, and keeps them busy.
Our Communications:
Alfredo’s response to the proposition of an interview
Alfredo’s answers to the questions
The Interview:
Can you explain your roles and responsibilities with your current position?
My role with CMFSC is Technical Director. I am responsible for the overall management and direction of the club players and coach development. In addition, I develop and implement annual technical programs and work with all our CMFSC staff on any issues or concerns that are brought forward to the club.
What obstacles have you faced to get you where you are today?
I have been in my position for just over 17 years now and one of the big obstacles I and to face in my early years was my age. I started this role as a 24-year-old and learned a lot through experiences and dealing with situations at a young age.
What advice would you pass on to someone interested in what you are doing?
Anyone interested in similar roles that I have would need to be passionate about the game and the club you work for. Tough decisions always need to be made and you must have the players’ interest as a priority.
Why are you passionate about your job or role?
Soccer has been my life for 38 years and I grew up playing for Metro-Ford in the 90’s. This role fell on my lap after Domenic Mobilio passed away suddenly in 2004. Domenic was my godfather and someone I looked up to growing up. So, the combination of being a former player and continuing to keep Domenic’s name alive through CMFSC is why I am passionate about my role. In addition, I’ve had the pleasure to also coach and watch all three of my kids play soccer at CMFSC.
Does your job include much travelling or the opportunity to meet with and work with different organizations?
I am always working with and communicating with other clubs and governing bodies in BC and Canada. I have great relationships with other Technical Directors, and we continue to collaborate on what is the best direction for the game of soccer. Travelling is required for coach development opportunities and when we have teams competing at national championships.
Do you think that sports are something that schools or governments should be focusing more on in the future?
Sports can have a major role in a youth’s life. It can be an opportunity to showcase someone’s skill, gain friendships, learn many life lessons, and also a safe environment where you can have fun. Continual government support to sports organizations helps keep costs low for families and schools are a great place for youths to learn or try something new.
Once again, thank you for giving me this amazing opportunity Mr. Valente!
Links:
Alfredo Valente – Technical Director (cmfsc.ca)
techdirector@cmfsc.ca