Italian National Team Head Coach Gianmarco Pozzecco has publicly shared a deeply personal wish concerning one of his key players, Achille Polonara. While Polonara is currently facing a significant challenge off the court, undergoing medical treatment, Pozzecco expressed a strong desire to keep the forward involved with the `Azzurri` during the upcoming EuroBasket tournament.
In a recent interview with the Eurodevotion portal, Pozzecco revealed this aspiration: “Polonara? I dream of having him on the staff at EuroBasket.” For a coach often known for his expressive and passionate nature, this statement isn`t just a casual remark; it highlights the strong bond within the Italian national team and Pozzecco`s profound respect and care for Polonara.
Achille Polonara`s Health Challenge
Achille Polonara, a vital big man known for his energy and skill on the court, is currently based in Valencia, Spain. His focus is entirely on his health recovery after being diagnosed with myeloid leukemia. The diagnosis was made during the crucial stages of the Italian league playoffs earlier this year, a development that understandably brought his professional playing commitments to a halt. As a result, his participation as a player in the EuroBasket group stage, scheduled to take place in Cyprus, is not a possibility while he undergoes necessary treatments.
Despite the geographical distance and the immense personal battle Polonara is facing, the connection with his coach and teammates remains unwavering. Pozzecco confirmed, “I hear from Achille every day.” This consistent communication underscores the personal level of support offered by the coach and the clear message that the team`s unity extends well beyond game days and training sessions. It`s a reminder that they are a family, supporting one another through difficult times.
A Gesture of Support and Hope
Pozzecco views the potential inclusion of Polonara within the national team setup, even in a non-playing capacity on the staff, as something more than just symbolic. He described it as potentially “a very strong signal.” This signal would represent resilience in the face of adversity, serve as a beacon of hope for Polonara`s recovery journey, and powerfully demonstrate the enduring spirit and solidarity of the Italian squad. It sends a clear message that once you contribute to the national colors, you remain part of that identity and community, particularly when navigating personal challenges.
While the practicalities and feasibility of this proposal depend entirely on Polonara`s health condition and his treatment schedule – with his full recovery being the undisputed top priority – Coach Pozzecco`s sentiment is unambiguous. The entire `Azzurri` contingent stands firmly in support of Achille, offering encouragement and cherishing the possibility of his presence with the team in any capacity that his health allows.
As Italy prepares to compete in the EuroBasket tournament in Cyprus, the primary focus is naturally on tactical preparation and on-court performance. However, for Head Coach Gianmarco Pozzecco, the well-being, personal support, and continuous connection with players like Achille Polonara are fundamental pillars of the team`s philosophy. His expressed hope beautifully illustrates that the national team is far more than just a list of names on a roster; it embodies a tight-knit community supporting each other through life`s challenges, on and off the basketball court.
