From 7th to 9th February, a delegation of our men’s 11-a-side football and women’s futsal teams, travelled to Paris to partecipate in Les Parisienne’s tournament, competing against universities from all over Europe. Despite the freezing temperatures, the atmosphere was exciting and the teams showed great determination facing various tough opponents.
Both results were very satisfying, not only for the positions obtained, but also for the effort, team spirit and adaptability shown by the two teams that have proved themselves in a slightly different sport: 8-a-side football. The mens team took home a well-deserved first place after an incredible tournament, culminating in the victory against the cousins of Cattolica. The womens team lost in the semifinals against the winner of the tournament, Amsterdam University College, and won the final for third place, winning a well-deserved bronze medal.
Special mention for the beautiful cheering that has rewarded our athletes, with the two teams always present to be cheer for each other, supported by a large delegation of Bocconi alumni and former Pelicans arrived from all over the world to meet and cheer, taking out of the context Bocconi one of our key points: the Community.
Thanks also to JEME, the men’s team sponsor, who believes in the team and helps make these opportunities a reality.
An incredible experience, commented on by Alice Musto, Women’s Futsal Team Manager:
"It was an extremely formative experience for the whole team, which has strengthened and united even more after these four days spent together. The tournament was a unique opportunity to consolidate the team spirit and face a new challenge: play 8-a-side, although we are a futsal team. The girls have shown great adaptability, determination and passion in every aspect of the tournament, leading each match with commitment and dedication. I am proud of what they have achieved."
Alberto Mancini, Men's Football Team Manager, adds:
"Nine seasons ago this goal seemed impossible. We have gone from being a simple group of football fans to a real family. It is the spirit of this team, the union, its desire to grow at every opportunity that finally has allowed us to win also in the international field. The experience in Paris has cemented even more the ties that bind players, staff and fans, putting a good dose of gasoline to face the rest of the season. This is much more than a team."