Farewell to Referee Chuchi Arencibia
Goodbye to a Basketball Legend
It’s a day to reflect and remember as we bid farewell to Jesús León Arencibia, fondly known as Chuchi, who left us at the tender age of 64. Former referee and later a director and delegate of La Laguna Tenerife, Chuchi’s impact on the basketball scene in Spain was nothing short of monumental.
A Whistle-Blowing Trailblazer
Chuchi Arencibia debuted on the courts of the Liga Nacional — the old ACB — way back in 1980. His journey through the world of basketball officiating was decorated with respect and prestige, even though health issues led him to retire from refereeing in 1992.
Keeping His Love for the Game Alive
Though he hung up his whistle, Chuchi wasn’t ready to say goodbye to basketball. He stayed close to the sport for years, serving as the field delegate for CB Canarias, working intensely behind the scenes for 13 years with the Aurinegro club.
A Tenerife Local with Grand Aspirations
Hailing from Gran Canaria but raised in Tenerife (shoutout to Viera y Clavijo and IES Cabrera Pinto!), Chuchi climbed the ranks of the Tinerfeño College of Referees, eventually making his name in the prestigious Division of Honor — the seed that blossomed into today’s ACB.
Memorable Moments
During a period when Spanish basketball was lighting up the world stage, thanks to the national team’s silver medal at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, Chuchi became a name synonymous with excellence in officiating. Known for his fairness and authority, he managed legendary matchups like those spicy clashes between Audie Norris and Fernando Martín, from the classic Barcelona-Real Madrid rivalry.
A Legacy Beyond the Court
Chuchi wasn’t just a referee; he was a legal eagle too! After retiring, he remained connected with CB Canarias, contributing as a director during the Benigno Afonso and Roberto Marrero years, and more recently as a field delegate during the club’s modern era in the Liga Endesa.
Forever in Our Hearts
A true Canarista, Chuchi’s spirit lives on, especially as his family recently mourned the loss of his brother, Paco León Arencibia, a former player for the youth team of Canarias. Chuchi’s memory will be etched in the hearts of basketball fans and the Canarian sports community forever.
Rest Easy, Chuchi
Here’s to Chuchi Arencibia — a referee, a director, and a legend. May you rest in peace.
