The National team of rink hockey decorated by the President of Portugal

Portugal love skating! Here is another proof if you do not believe it. The national rink hockey team was invited by the President of the Republic Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa. The whole team was awarded the Order of Merit, following its victory in the 2016 European Rink Hockey Championship in Oliveira de Azeméis (Portugal).

During the last 10 days, the Portuguese president also rewarded the European Champions of football and athletes. The President highlighted the contribution of the players to make their country more happy and proud to be Portuguese. He also reminded that it was 18 years that Portugal had not won the continental title in rink hockey. According to him, the competition in Oliveira do Bairro allowed the Portuguese to rediscover this sport and the quality of Portugese players.

Luis Senica (national coach) told that the victory was the result of a hard work and the realization of a long term project. The captain of the national team, João Rodrigues, is still euphoric afther this European title. He said the recent victories of Portugal in other competitions have given players the enthusiasm and strength to win the competition.

Read the original article in Portuguese