Greek press conference
“It is a real pleasure to host this round of the European League after the good experiences we had in the past and whereby we proved that our people are totally fond of the sport. This weekend of play joined by the national teams of Greece, Israel, Czech Republic and the Netherlands is a good incentive to prolong our tradition in Volleyball. We would like to thank the Hellenic Volleyball Federation for showing once again their trust in us” said the Mayor of Orestiada, Dimitris Mouzas while opening the press conference.
“As we are being confronted with tough times and severe financial constraints, I can only re-affirm that we have been fulfilling our goal, which is to organize international Volleyball events in our regional communities” said Mr. Hatzipanagiotou. “Orestiada has got a long tradition in Volleyball and our plan is to further support the development of the sport here”.
“I am grateful to the local authorities and to the Hellenic Volleyball Federation for their support and trust. You do not have that often the chance to watch great teams in action like we’ll have this weekend. Our ambition is to organize a good event” added the President of the Orestiada Volleyball club, Vasilis Gizanis.
Greece’s head coach Dimitrios Floros shared some memories from his Volleyball career: “I have been many times in Orestiada and I lost here some matches that I shall actually try to forget. After ending my competitive career, this is the first time I have traveled to Orestiada as head coach of the national team and I hope these days will contribute a smiling, happy face. The city of Orestiada has a special connection with Volleyball and I hope the local fans will enjoy this opportunity to see great Volleyball displayed by the teams included in the toughest Pool of this year’s European League”.
Team captain Maria Chatzinikolaou eventually shed some tears while expressing her emotion for returning back to the city where she was born back in 1978. “I do not want to say that many words but just thank the local organizers and all those who are helping run this event. It is the first time in many years I am returning back to Orestiada, the place where I was born and started playing Volleyball as a little child. There are many personal memories that are associated to Orestiada and our team will be playing its best to give the audience something to cheer about” she said.
