Many ex-footballers find new passions off the pitch. This is the case of Enrique “Quique” Ortiz.He knew how to shine in Argentine football and in Europe, and when he left the boots He dedicated himself to agribusinessa sector in which today he works with as much dedication as in the stadiums.
Ortiz, who played on teams like Institute and FC Lyn Oslo from Norway, decided to retire early to complete his studies in agronomy and enter the rural world. Currently, he is dedicated to the marketing of agricultural inputs, finding in the field a “cable to ground” that motivates him today as much as football did in his golden years.
The career of Enrique “Quique” Ortiz
Enrique was born in Cordovaand since he was a child he was encouraged by his family to follow a balanced life between studies and football. “At home they always instilled in me that, If I didn’t study, I didn’t play”, he commented. His discipline led him to stand out in both areas, making his debut in the first team of Córdoba Institute in 2001.In “The Glory” was formed and achieved his first great achievement: the 2004 championship that gave the Institute the desired promotion to the First Division.
Ortiz’s career took an unexpected leap when he was transferred to the FC Lyn Oslo of Norwaya destiny that allowed him to face new challenges. During his time in European football, he competed in the Europa League, consolidating himself as a reference in the team. On one occasion, he commented: “I was the first Argentine to play professionally in Norway,” which underlines his pioneering spirit and willingness to take on challenges.
During his time on the old continent, the player not only stood out on the court; He also took advantage of his free time to continue with his agronomy studies, a career that had started while playing in high school. However, after two and a half years in Norway, opportunities in football began to become scarce. With a low profile and without falling into despair, he decided to return to Córdoba to rethink his professional life and focus on his academic career.
Finally, in 2011, with the degree in agricultural engineering in hand, Enrique left professional football behind. His decision not to continue playing surprised him, but the dedication with which he had always approached his goals made the change easier for him. “I had closed a cycle and I decided to prioritize my other passion: agronomy”explained Ortiz, who has since worked at the agricultural sector and rural real estate.
The new life of Enrique “Quique” Ortiz
Away from professional sports, Ortiz found a new passion and way of life in the field. As an agronomist, he joined the company Gallaráwhere he works at marketing of agricultural inputsa sector that allows you to expand your career and strengthen your connection to the land. “I always wanted to be linked to the field. It is my ground cable,” confessed the former player, who describes this stage as rewarding and full of new learning.
Beyond the sale of supplies, it also ventures into its own projects, such as a park and garden maintenance company which he directs with friends. In addition, he has led reforestations and worked in the production of peppers, completely immersing himself in the rural environment. These activities, he assures, give him satisfaction similar to that of sporting achievements. “When I took my last class, I celebrated it as if it were a championship,” he recalled.
Currently, Ortiz frequently travels to rural exhibitions, where he represents his company and shares with other producers. In these events, he highlights the similarities between soccer and agribusiness: “Producers, like soccer players, do not give up. “They are always working to improve.” Today, his dedication and dedication on the field show that his competitive spirit was not left in the past, but was transformed into a passion that continues to fuel, far from the fields, but close to nature.
Source: Ambito
