THE PASSING OF THE FATHER OF EX ROJILLOS PLAYER VLADI

Late last week saw the passing of the father of one of the Rojillos greatest ever players Oscar Vladimir (Vladi).

It was with the family of Vladi that I had my first contact with UD Lanzarote. Around 22 years ago I was working as a tour guide on this beautiful island and on the north tour we had lunch at his parent’s restaurant Aviguey in the village where I also lived Punta Mujeres.

Manolo and Ita used to cook and at the end of the meal would also sing to the tourists whilst Oscar and his sister Monica helped waiting the tables. Oscar was only a youngster when we first met and was playing for the UD Lanzarote under 18 side.

Very quickly Oscar progressed to the first team and it was from that moment I became hooked as a Rojillo supporter. I asked him about buying a shirt and he told me that if the one he has were to rip then he hasn’t got another one to wear. Instantly my mind began racing on how I could get involved. It took many years but here I am working alongside the club for over 15 years.

Oscar’s career was on fire as UD Lanzarote got promoted to the Segunda B (Third Tier). I was in his parents bar when the draw for the Copa Del Rey was announced and there was a deafening silence when UD Lanzarote was mentioned but that broke into chaos when the commentator said that they were to face Giants Real Madrid.

After all the celebrations quietened down I spoke with Oscar and his family and said that my wife was pregnant, as we didn’t want to know the sex of our second child I said that If Oscar scores against Real Madrid and if my wife gives birth to a boy then as long as my wife agrees we will call the boy Oscar.

On the 28^th November 2001 the Galacticos arrived in Lanzarote along with Zidane, Figo and Guti to name just a few. Midway through the first half the Primera Liga side took the lead and an onslaught was expected, though in the 41^st minute a ball was headed onto the path of Vladi and as the Brazilian keeper César advanced to block a shot, the Punta Mujeres boy beautifully chipped the Brazilian international and Lanzarote were level 1-1 at the break.

Vladi whipped off his shirt Giggsy style and ran around the pitch not really knowing that he had cemented his name in local football history. Four months later my wife gave birth to a healthy boy and of course his name is Oscar, now 19.

Manolo leaves behind his four sons (one of which was an adopted Saharan child who lost his parents) and his daughter, the wonderful Monica. Manolo will now be re joining his beautiful wife Ita who tragically died 18 years ago.

Oscar now helps run the Palenke restaurant in Punta Mujeres so if you are up that way pop in and see him and enjoy a great meal.

I am sure that on behalf of all UD Lanzarote fans we send our deepest sympathies to Oscar and his family and friends.

R.I.P. Manolo