Football often brings moments of pure joy. But sometimes, it makes us pause and reflect. The recent news of Jorge Costa’s passing has cast a shadow, especially over the AVS SAD club. He was more than just a coach; he was a cornerstone for their recent rise.
Rubens Takano Pereira, the president of AVS SAD, found himself deeply moved. He openly shared his sorrow. This loss hit close to home for many reasons. Jorge Costa’s son, David Costa, works at the club even now. It makes the club feel this sadness very personally.
The club quickly showed its respect. AVS SAD had planned to introduce a new player, Sidi Bane. They chose to put off the event. This small gesture spoke volumes about their feelings for Jorge Costa. It was a moment of collective mourning, a quiet tribute from the Vila das Aves team.
President Pereira spoke from the heart about his connection to Jorge Costa. He remembered the beginnings of AVS SAD’s journey. “Jorge Costa was the coach we picked,” Pereira shared. “We were starting almost from nothing in Vila das Aves.” He emphasized the trust between them. “We believed in him,” Pereira said, “and he believed in us.”
Their first year together was a big success. It also came with many challenges. But they tackled them side by side. Pereira knew Jorge always dreamed of moving to FC Porto. “We supported his choice,” Pereira recalled. “We were so happy he got to work at the club he loved most.” At that point, Jorge was at the peak of his career as a director.
Pereira believes Jorge’s influence stretched far beyond that first season. “Everything that happened to us since then had his touch,” he stated. “Jorge taught me so much about life and Portuguese football.” The loss will be felt keenly. AVS SAD and the town of Vila das Aves will miss him dearly. FC Porto will too, no doubt. But the deepest pain, Pereira noted, will be for Jorge’s family. They saw him as a great leader and a friend.
Pereira struggled to use the past tense when talking about Jorge. “Jorge is,” he said, “and forgive me for using the present tense, but I still can’t believe this happened.” He spoke of immense respect for Jorge as a man and a father. Especially as David Costa’s father. David came with his dad to Vila das Aves and has stayed at the club.
The news was a terrible shock. “No one expected Jorge to leave us so soon,” Pereira admitted. In this tough time, he extended his deepest sympathies. He sent a big hug to all family and friends. His condolences went out to FC Porto, its leadership, players, and all fans.
AVS SAD plans to honor Jorge Costa’s memory. “From our side,” Pereira confirmed, “we will work to respect and carry on his legacy.”
Finally, Pereira shared a message just for David Costa. “Not David Costa, the club’s staff member,” he clarified, “but David Costa, the son, for whom I have such high regard.” He promised unwavering support. “We will always be by your side,” he assured him. “You will get all the help you need. We truly feel your loss. We want you to know your father’s memory will stay with us.”