This Friday (31), the 'Pratas do Ninho' project continued, which aims to optimize the transition of athletes from the Flamengo youth academy to the professional team. The initiative covers young people who stand out in the various categories of Mais Querido, starting from under-13.

At Flamengo's Center of Excellence in Performance (CEP FLA), athletes Lincoln Corrêa, Vinicius Júnior, Wesley David, Yuri César, and Patrick da Silva underwent a series of physical assessments. The tests were coordinated by members of the coaching staff from both the youth and professional categories.

The head of the main team's Medical Department, Dr. Márcio Tannure, commented on the project, explaining its functionality. This phase of the project involved the Flamengo youth team champions of the South American Under-17 Championship, held this March.

"Today we're taking these athletes who came from the Under-17 National Team and are included in the project, whom we haven't yet had the opportunity to evaluate. The 'Pratas do Ninho' project is not only about enhancing the athlete's physical potential, but it's also a process of integration between the youth and professional areas, so that this transition is as smooth as possible. They are already familiarizing themselves with the structure and methodology of the professional team, so that when they arrive at this level they are ready athletes," he said.

Dr. Tannure also highlighted the exchange of knowledge between professionals in the youth categories and those who are part of the coaching staff of the main team. "On the other hand, it serves as integration between the youth and professional areas. It is a process of continuous education between the coaching staffs, who participate (in the project) along with their athletes," he added.

The head of Flamengo's medical department also explained the stages of the project, which involve monitoring all the skills of the athletes involved in this transition process.

"Initially, before any intervention, a thorough evaluation is conducted. When an athlete arrives at Flamengo, they are assessed physically, nutritionally, and psychologically. After that, a report is created with all the results for feedback, which will take place today with the athletes who came this morning, with the participation of the corresponding category's commission. We show the athletes the results, what they are today, and where we want them to be. Then, we plan the strategy so that they can reach their best potential," he concluded.

The youngsters who underwent evaluations this Friday (31) trained with the athletes of the under-20 team. This Saturday (01), in Xerém, the Garotos do Ninho will face Fluminense in the first round of the Carioca Championship of the category, with the ball rolling from 15 pm.