Aguilar Alvarez Sr. was an integral figure in the development of professional soccer in Mexico. From original Liga Mayor club Marte, to his Presidency of first Atlante and then Pumas UNAM, Aguilar Alvarez Sr. helped construct the framework for the sport that allowed Mexico to host its first FIFA World Cup in 1970.

Aguilar Alvarez Jr. continued that legacy as arguably Pumas UNAM’s most successful President. Over a 22-year tenure that ran from 1975-97, the club won the Mexican Primera Division three times, the CONCACAF Champions’ Cup three times, and the Copa Interamericana. In that era, the likes of future U.S. National Team Coach Bora Milutinovic and Mexican legends Hugo Sanchez and Tuca Ferretti were all important figures on the field and the sidelines, but it is Aguilar Alvarez Jr.’s bust that rests prominently at the club’s training ground.

Both men’s ability to build relationships and trust are traits that Farca has brought with him to his professional career.

“Relationships,” said Farca of the best lesson he learned. “Treating people right, the fan base, and being very transparent on what the team is doing, and what the team is working on. There will be transition periods throughout the years, but as long as they are communicated as to what the strategy and the goal is, the fans follow. Keep in mind, the people that play for the team, the people that work in the front office and the community that supports it are three very important pillars that we need to keep in mind.”