Massimo Barbolini became head coach of Turkey in 2013
Trieste, Italy, September 30, 2014 - The Turkish national team is a squad that is improving rapidly. In Trieste, Turkey proved their strength with good results versus their Pool B contenders, including World No. 1 Brazil.
In 2013, Massimo Barbolini became head coach of the Turkish team. Barbolini had arrived in Turkey after a long and fruitful campaign with the Italian national team. He led the “squadra azzurra” to the Olympic Games (Beijing and London) twice, conquered the World Cup in 2007 and 2011 and a bronze medal at the FIVB World Grand Prix.
“When I became coach of the Turkish team, I tried to form a staff that could help building up a national community of volleyball coaches and trainers. That is why I did not bring an Italian coaching staff to Turkey what some other coaches had done in the past. I prefer to work with a local crew - for the respect of the country where I am working.”
“It is a good mix of two cultures: Italy is a traditional volleyball country. I feel the respect for our tradition and our philosophy of volleyball.” Turkey captain Gözde Sonsirma confirm the additional value of mixed cultures. “I am very happy to play the World Champs here in Italy. I love the Italians so much. Italians and Turks are similar. They are nice, happy and always smiling.” With an enthusiastic smile she adds: “I must admit my love for Italian food. I adore pizza, mozzarella and parmigiano!”
Turkey will continue their 2014 FIVB Women’s World Championship campaign on Wednesday with the much-awaited duel versus powerhouse United States of America.