Soccer Eccellenza, the championship restarts: April 11 back on the field
The boys of Calcio Eccellenza are about to resume competitions, after the stop imposed by the pandemic. The date to mark on the calendar is April 11, when they will finally be able to return to the field. Manager Leo Cisotta, coach Cristian Ledesma and captain Tommaso Maestrelli have told us how the forced stop has been faced, the emotions generated by the restart of the championship and the new seasonal objectives.
Management speaks
Leo Cisotta claps, in particular, the commitment shown by the guys during training and by the University in supporting the team in a delicate period.
Leo, what does the resumption of competition mean for you? What has changed?
We’ve been living in limbo for two years. It hasn’t been easy to keep everyone motivated and it won’t be easy to regain the right concentration. We have tried and found, all together, ways to move forward, looking optimistically to the future. The students continued their studies and appreciated even more the opportunity offered to them by the University. So much has changed about the way we live our social life, but I am sure we will soon discover new ways to feel part of a unique experience.
Have you taken advantage of the championship hiatus in any way?
By planning what is programmable. We’ve been able to think about some of the things we need to do to maintain (and improve) the level these guys have brought us to. In particular, I’m referring to issues such as facilities, the integration of work on the field with the Luiss Sport Lab, and the evolution of the Luiss Sport Program. We will look ahead with the usual enthusiasm, which not even two years of pandemic have affected. Now we’re starting again and we all want to do it in the best way possible, with seriousness and joy. And maybe with a pinch of relief.
The coach’s point of view
Cristian Ledesma’s role is certainly not an easy one. It wouldn’t be in normal times, given the responsibilities it imposes, but it hasn’t been especially so during the stop. Despite everything, however, the coach has been able to keep the team’s morale high.
Coach, have you planned a particular methodology for the return of the boys to the field?
We have set up a training program respecting the anti-Covid measures and trying not to make them lose their athletic condition. Considering that we have never stopped and that the boys’ presence has been constant, I am very optimistic. Our players have always been very committed, despite the delicate period.
Psychologically, how will you approach the boys who are about to face the championship again?
The approach will definitely be emotional: I will try to motivate them as much as possible, to make them understand that we have a great opportunity. I’m sure my guys will have fun and give their best.
A look from the field
Tommaso Maestrelli completes the picture. The team captain tells us about the behind the scenes preparations and the emotions of the return to the pitch.
Tommaso, how is the atmosphere in the locker room as we prepare for the restart?
There is a great desire to sacrifice and have fun all together. During this break, we’ve done our best to stay as fit as possible. It hasn’t been easy, given the uncertainty due to the period we’re going through and the regulations that have limited the regularity of training.
What is your goal for the season now?
The restart of the championship, with the format assumed, can be a stimulus for everyone. In a limited number of games, any end result is possible. For this, it is necessary to stay focused and row all in the same direction. You have to be ready to help your teammates and fight on every ball. Let’s think about giving our best in every game and at the end we’ll look at the standings, knowing that we gave everything we had.