The two 'casteller' groups from Valls, Colla Vella dels Xiquets de Valls and Colla Joves Xiquets de Valls, have jointly honored the public media outlets La Xarxa and TAC12 as new ambassadors. This recognition, awarded since 2011, celebrates individuals or entities that contribute to spreading and elevating 'casteller' culture.
The ceremony, held during the Sant Joan Festival and the start of the 'casteller' season in Valls, highlighted the continuous work of La Xarxa and TAC12 in broadcasting and disseminating 'castells' (human towers), with a particular focus on major events and the activities of local groups.
The president of Colla Joves, Marc París, and the president of Colla Vella, Xavi Pons, emphasized the crucial role of both media in projecting 'castells' nationally and internationally. Valls' mayor, Dolors Farré, acknowledged the contribution of communication professionals to the expansion of the 'casteller' world, stating, "'Castells' were born in Valls, the zero kilometer of the 'casteller' world, and today they are heritage for the entire country."
Representing the honored media, Núria de José, CEO of La Xarxa, and Xavier Abelló, director of TAC12, expressed their pride in the distinction. De José thanked the warm reception in the capital of Alt Camp, while Abelló described the award as a "privilege" and praised the Valls groups' ability to evoke emotions "where it all began."
Traditionally, the event includes the draw for the performance order of the Sant Joan 'diada'. This year, a special silver coin for the Xiquets de Valls, designed by the Fundació Artística Vilà, was introduced. De José and Abelló made the first official coin toss, which determined that Colla Joves will open the performance at the upcoming 'diada'. The ceremony concluded with the traditional 'pilars' (column towers) raised by both groups.
