A few days of relax to drive away the disappointment of the missed podium at the VNL Finals with the national team shirt. Spiker Mattia Bottolo, world and continental champion with Italy and vice-champion in SuperLega with Cucine Lube Civitanova, recharges his batteries while waiting to face new commitments with the selection of Fefè De Giorgi and with the sextet of Chicco Blengini. The European Championships and the Olympic Qualifications are approaching, while the Regular Season with the Club will begin on 22 October.
A VNL played well by Italy has ended, a pity about the epilogue.
Bottolo: “The disappointment is considerable, but the last two games have left us with a wealth of important experience that will be useful in the next competitions. Have we found tough rivals? I would say yes and it could not have been otherwise, when it comes to the final stages of an event it is normal to face the best equipped and fit teams”.
The call-up for the VNL Finals automatically excluded you from the Universiade group.
“When commitments overlap or are very close together, it is right to create several groups. I am available to the coach and when I am called up I respond with great enthusiasm. I was very happy to be back in the team that was trying to get on the podium at the VNL. I also find the Universiade very stimulating, but the calendar is busy and there are important milestones on the horizon. If and when I’m called into question, I’ll give my best!”.
In late October you will return to the Lube group. Several teams, even abroad, have courted you. Did you hesitate or were you sure you would stay?
“I came to Civitanova to honor a long-term project and signed a 5-year contract. Changing direction after one season was not my intention. Given that I feel great at Lube, I want to fight with all my strength to get my space and find the ideal conditions. The department boasts important names and high quality players. It stimulates me to work hard all year round to have opportunities and good playing time!”.
The first year at Lube gave you the chance to play crucial challenges.
“Just the chance to play matches with a high specific weight helped me to acquire greater awareness. Taking the field and playing the season in matches from inside or outside greatly favors mental growth. Even if I’m enjoying the few days off, I can’t wait to get back on the pitch to be able to have my say in the games that count and prove my worth.”
