Piacenza 2014-15 is looking more and more solid and ambitious. The club has just signed Thijs Ter Horst but strikes again with the addition of libero Mario Da Silva Pedreira Junior, known as Mario Jr. Born in Rio De Janeiro in May 1982, Mario Jr is currently one of the best liberos in the world. The Brazilian won three national titles with Cimed Esporte Clube from 2008 to 2010 as well as two state championships and the south American championships for clubs. Next stops were Gremio Recreativo and Esportivo Reunidas, with which he won the Paulista league. In 2012-13, he helped RJ Volei win the Carioca Championship and his fourth Superliga. He made it into the Brazilian national team in 2009 and immediately won the World League as Serginho’s back-up. A starter the following season, he won the World League again and he received the best libero award. His career is marked by one victory after another, there was also the gold medal in the Grand Champions Cup in Japan 2013. This summer, his Brazil met Italy four times so far in the World League: two 3-1 wins each.
“Playing in Piacenza is a dream come true for me – said Mario Jr – Piacenza is a great club, they have always been at the top. And I think that’s going to be the case this year again given the team they have put together. I am excited to be part of this project, I will try to give my best in the three certain competitions we’ll take part in: the Super Cup, the League and the Champions League”.
