In 2005, three men decided to turn a centuries-old tradition into a modern business, fundamentally altering the fate of Valencian pilota. Alfred Hernando, known as Fredi, Daniel Ribera, called Ribera II, and Emili Peris, the owner of a trinquet, joined forces to create ValNet, a company that would professionalize the sport. Before this moment, the players were often unpaid or underpaid, working in an environment that lacked structure and stability. The trio introduced assured minimal fees for the players, organized physical preparation programs, and established a schedule of weekly matches for everyone. They also leveled competitions and created challenging exhibitions for bettings, all designed to clean up and revitalize the Valencian pilota world. This bold move brought order to a chaotic system, but it also sparked controversy, with some alleging that ValNet favored certain players and trinquets over others. The creation of ValNet marked a turning point, transforming the sport from a loose collection of individuals into a structured, professional entity.
The Players Who Made It Real
The success of ValNet hinged on the talent and dedication of its players, many of whom became household names in the Valencian community. Among the professional players were Adrián I, Adrián II, Álvaro, Aucejo, Canari, Cervera, Colau, Dani de Benavites, Espínola, Fèlix, Genovés II, Grau, Héctor, Herrera, Javi, Jesús, León, Melchor, Mezquita, Miguel, Nacho, Núñez, Oñate, Pedro, Pere, Primi, Raül II, Salva, Santi, Sarasol II, Solaz, Soro III, Tato, Tino, Víctor, and Voro. These athletes were not just participants; they were the backbone of the organization, bringing their skills and charisma to the courts. The Feridors players, including Miguelín, Oltra, and Pedrito, also played a crucial role in the early days of ValNet, contributing to the sport's growth and popularity. Their stories were filled with triumphs and challenges, as they navigated the new professional landscape. Each player brought a unique style and personality to the game, making ValNet a dynamic and engaging spectacle for fans. The organization's ability to attract and retain such a diverse group of talented individuals was a testament to its vision and the players' commitment to the sport.The Courts Where Legends Were Born
The trinquets, or courts, were the heart of ValNet's operations, serving as the stage where the sport's history was written. Emili Peris, one of the founders, owned a trinquet that became a central hub for the organization. These courts were not just places to play; they were community centers where fans gathered to witness the skill and passion of the players. The Circuit Bancaixa and the Trofeu Individual Bancaixa were among the most relevant competitions organized by ValNet, drawing large crowds and generating significant interest. The Escala i corda format, a traditional style of play, was a staple of these events, showcasing the athleticism and strategy of the players. The trinquets were also the sites of intense rivalries and memorable matches, where the stakes were high and the emotions ran deep. The organization's efforts to level competitions and create challenging exhibitions for bettings ensured that the trinquets remained vibrant and competitive. The courts were more than just physical spaces; they were the cultural and social heart of the Valencian pilota community, where the sport's legacy was preserved and celebrated.