Aqualia Campus: SD Formentera Teams Up with Racing Santander

What the Campus Is All About

The Aqualia campus is a joint project between SD Formentera and Racing de Santander. Launched this summer, it brings together boys and girls aged 6‑16 for a football‑training program that runs from Monday to July 17. The sessions take place on the municipal field of Formentera and aim to share the successful grassroots methodology used by Racing’s youth academy.

Who Made It Happen

Jay Romero – The Driving Force

Jay Romero, a forward for SD Formentera who previously played for UM Escobedo, is one of the main creators of the campus. His time at Racing Santander let him meet José Picon, the current coordinator of the club’s youth setup. Romero recalls:

“When I was in Cantabria I met him, we got along well and talked about trying something together because Racing is a club that’s been expanding and doing things right for years.”

José Picon – Racing’s Youth Coordinator

Picon oversees the green‑and‑white quarry at Racing and helped organize the experience on the Pitiusa island. His expertise ensures that the training follows the same high standards used in Santander.

Why the Campus Matters to the Island

Helping Families and Kids

Romero stresses that the schedule—8 a.m. to 3 p.m.—gives parents more flexibility and provides kids with a structured, fun environment. Feedback from participants has been positive so far.

“They are delighted, and that’s the most important thing. It motivates them to keep coming and enjoy being there.”

Beating the Heat

Formentera’s summer temperatures can be high, but the campus has adapted:

• Training stops before the sun becomes too intense.
• A free‑time monitor runs indoor activities when it’s hot.
• Air‑conditioned spaces are available for use after 1 p.m.

These measures keep the young athletes comfortable while they learn.

Looking Beyond the Island

Attracting Local, National, and International Talent

Besides serving Formentera’s youth, the campus aims to draw players from across the Balearics, Spain, and even abroad. The partnership with Racing Santander opens doors for future editions and helps place Formentera on the national youth‑football map.

Continuing a Pioneering Project

Romero sees this first year as a test run. The goal is to make everything work smoothly this year and then build on the success for upcoming camps.

Conclusion

The Aqualia campus shows how collaboration between clubs can create real opportunities for young footballers. By combining Racing Santander’s proven training methods with SD Formentera’s local knowledge, the initiative offers a safe, enjoyable, and educational experience for children aged 6‑16. With positive early feedback and smart solutions to handle the summer heat, the campus is set to become a staple of youth development on the island and a stepping stone for future talent.

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Images Credit: www.diariodeibiza.es