José António Carvalho joined the Football Association of Viana do Castelo (AFVC) at the age of 18 and remained at the institution for five decades, ending his career as general secretary, becoming one of the most well-known figures in district football. Throughout this period, he accompanied five presidents and dozens of clubs.
When he started working at the association, all the work was done mainly by hand and the institution also operated during the night to allow club managers to handle paperwork, often leaving at 11:30 PM. In 2004, he accompanied the move of the headquarters from Praça da República to the current facilities, witnessing the arrival of computers, the disappearance of paper files, and the creation of new departments.
At 68 years old, José António Carvalho retired, summarizing his experience with the words: "I always worked here and I loved being in my only job in life." His routine changed, but his connection to football remained, now dedicating himself to photography, gym, and walks, ensuring he will not stay far from AFVC.
