The seasons go by, but there is only one fixed point to battle in the 3 meters. The green-and-white colors defended with honor starting from the Under 20s and Serie C, up to that dream called Serie A that really wants to hold on to each other. In the last season, through work and sacrifices, he gained more and more space, overcoming all his personal bests. The 8 points (with 3 aces) that put Tuscania in crisis are still imprinted in the eyes, allowing ShedirPharma Sorrento to fight point by point in Montefiascone, giving life to a throbbing battle that lasted 5 very long sets. Still in green-and-white, the middle blocker Antonio Imperatore born in 1999!
Last season you managed to improve yourself by surpassing your personal best in Serie A: 25 points put down overall, and 8 (with 3 aces) in an attempt to comeback in Tuscania which he then won in 5 sets. What is your budget, and where do you set the bar this year?
“The balance sheet is decidedly positive. My first season in Serie A was one of adjustment, because getting used to the rhythms of the game wasn’t easy, and then I was completely closed in my role by Deserio and Pilotto. Last year, after having reaped the benefits of the previous season and with a little more experience, I was certainly able to express myself better. I am satisfied with the progress made, but at the same time I think it is right to raise the bar further. It’s nice to have improved the individual numbers as regards winning points, blocks and serves, but I don’t feel satisfied for this. I will continue to put a lot of effort into training, and I am convinced that I can carve out my space, reaping what I will sow in the work sessions with sweat and sacrifice”.
You have shown that you have acquired such a level that you can have your say in Serie A when called upon. How much desire is there to carve out even more space for yourself through work?
“I’m eager to meet Mr. Racaniello, because everyone has spoken highly of him and I’m really curious to see how he works. His arrival is a very important stimulus, because I believe he will have a huge impact on what my technical-tactical path will be. In my department I know I have two excellent players in front of me: one I know well for having already shared a season with him, the other equally well for the important numbers he can boast in this category. I will try to put the coach in difficulty in making choices thanks to the sacrifice and self-sacrifice that I will always put into the gym, trying to make room for myself to help the team when I get the chance.”
