Anantapur: the fifth 'large' one of Rafa Nadal
Opened a school in India for 150 underprivileged children
The twisted face Rafael Nadal in Shanghai, where he lost in the second round against Melzer, mutated into a smile when he stepped in India. They arrived on Friday and there, in Anantapur, today opened a school of his Foundation, in collaboration with the Vicente Ferrer, to make life easier for 150 children
In February 2008, in Manacor, the number one presented the wickerwork of the Foundation that presides his mother Ana María, who accompanied him on the visit. One idea that has resulted in the construction and maintenance of a school that provides support in math, English and computer and, of course, has three tennis clay courts.
"I realize that my image I can only help mobilize many people", said the number one and has already given proof as in the Match Against Malaria organized with Iker Casillas in 2007 and 2008. His Foundation is a greater commitment. "It is a source of happiness help give them a better childhood," He explained "I hope that they take advantage of this school. Hopefully I can return within few years and see that the student have a new life" On December 21, he'd also playinh a charity match with Roger Federer, in Zurich, with the aim of raising money for the projects for the Swiss Foundation in Africa.
Anantapur coexist with children between 7 and 16 years (there are now 120). Most of the Dalit caste, the untouchables, the poorest. But also of others to seek integration. They receive health and nutritional support. "Sport can help us break the caste," said Anna Ferrer, widow of former missionary and carries on the legacy with his son Moncho, who invited the Nadal family to eat at home and then to visit another center of its NGOs and the Foundation of Barcelona.
"We do not intend to create players," said Ana Maria, the mother of Nadal. "We want to trace the mentality and the ideals of Rafa. " His fifth great one has a name: Anantapur.