Within the framework of the Mentor10 program, Ana Pérez interacted with patients from the Pediatrics units, discussing her sports journey and the importance of perseverance, discipline, and daily effort. The event was attended by José Ayala, territorial delegate for Culture and Sport, and Elena González, delegate for Health, along with María Belén Martínez, managing director of the hospital.
Ayala explained that the Mentor10 program aims for elite athletes, both active and retired, to serve as guides and motivators for school-aged youth and emerging sports talents. He emphasized that the figure of a mentor is crucial for boosting the careers of athletes in training.
“"This encounter allows minors undergoing treatment or hospitalized to connect with an elite athlete who has overcome numerous challenges throughout her career and who transmits to them the enthusiasm for self-improvement, sports values, and the shared human greatness in the world of sport."
During her visit, Ana Pérez, born in Seville in 1997, highlighted the principles of artistic gymnastics, such as perseverance and constant work to achieve goals. The gymnast, a member of the national team and a multiple Spanish champion, represented Spain in the Rio 2016 Olympic Games and is scheduled to participate in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. She also answered questions from the children and shared anecdotes from her high-level competition experience.
The Mentor10 program is based on the idea that a sports mentor, an expert with an exemplary career and public recognition, is a fundamental tool in the comprehensive training of young athletes, transmitting not only results but also human values.
