Pride and sense of belonging. This is the story of Paolo Pontecorvolibero born in 1998 with the green and white jersey tattooed on his skin: from the youth sector to Serie A. Defending the colors of your country is both an honor and a burden, but he has broad shoulders to handle the pressure and always give his all on every ball. Libero, but also a spiker to lend a hand in the fundamentals of the second line when the team needs it. For his determination and versatility, Pontecorvo is an important pawn in the tactical chessboard of mister Nicola Esposito.
A confirmation that shows the trust of the company in you. How does it feel to defend the colors of your country, in a tough and fascinating championship like Serie A3?
“What is about to begin will be my fourth year in Serie A here in Sorrento. I will start again in August with even more hunger, and a desire to improve starting from the first training session. I believe that playing for your country is the dream of any athlete: I am lucky to be able to live this dream, continuing to represent my land”.
How important is it to transmit the values of belonging to kids from outside the region, to create a solid and winning group?
“The road to success lies in a solid group, which is fully aware of the direction in which it is going. With commitment, perseverance and patience. It will be important to share the values and culture of the group we will create, to feel this sense of belonging even stronger.”
Free in the role, but you were often decisive even as a second line spiker. How much work is behind it, to improve the fundamentals of reception and defense?
“I’m willing to do anything to help my teammates. I’ll always be ready for any of the coach’s needs. Behind the results there’s a lot of work during training, to make the most of my flexibility and prepare myself as best as possible to face any situation.”
From the announcements, do you perceive the right mix of youth and where is the bar set this year?
“President Fabrizio Ruggiero has set up an excellent team, and it is right to aim higher and higher every year. Since there are so many new additions, it will be essential to find the right mix as soon as possible. We will build our goals in the gym day after day!”
With what personal expectations and ambitions are you preparing for the new season?
“It will be a very demanding season. I will try to improve myself, go as far as possible, and get other great satisfactions”
