New lessons from Bernardinho

This is the third or fourth ZNR Connection dedicated to the Brazil´s men volleyball national team in recent years and, indirectly, to the coach Bernardinho. And I believe that it won´t be the last, because the Brazilian volleyball is always giving good examples to our football.

On Sunday night, Brazil overcame the mighty Italy in World League´s titles after beating Russia in the finals. It was the ninth title for Brazil against Italy´s eight. The current coach was in charge in eight of these conquests. I´m especially happy for Bernardinho because I really admire him. And I believe that many lessons can be taken from our volleyball team.

Bernardinho is a great manager and he revealed a long time ago the recipe to achieve the goals. Hard work always motivated by professionals that are in fact winners. A team in which even the stars accept the bench without complaining. A good, well-done and constant renovation is also needed. New generations are being formed in an excellent youth categories work.

In a column that I talked about the Brazilian national team last year, I congratulated the setter Bruno Rezende, Bernardinho´s son, that overcame the prejudice of being related to the coach. He is a winner like his father that keeps evolving as a player and won another trophy this year.

Looking at the this team´s history, we can notice players as Murilo, volleybal´s star today, but six years ago was a youngster trying to get his space in the squad. At the same time, Giba, best player of the world in many competitions, was in the bench giving strength to his teammates. An united team never loses its will to work and win. The experienced players are passing this message to the youth, guided by the great leader Bernardinho.

The history is happening and it´s very good to watch it. The Brazilian Volleyball Confederation (CBV) also deserves credits for managing this structured renewal through the years. Champions from the youth team to the junior squad to the first team always winning titles. An ideal process for any sports, based in the work´s continuity forming athletes.

When the first team wins another title, it means the victory of many coaches and technical staffs that are helping to form these players from the beginning. This is fundamental. It´s my model for Flamengo´s future in football and a good example for many teams.

Work, discipline, forming athletes and winning titles: it´s a simple equation to write, but very challenging to apply day by day. That´s why I need to congratulate once again the players of the Brazilian national team and, especially, Bernardinho and his technical staff. May he follow his path forming champions and raising trophies. His work deserves a standing ovation from everybody.

See you next week!


10/07/28.

home | e-mail this article | printer-friendly format |