Sad. Another coach from Europe bites the dust.
Julio Velasco has quit his position as the coach of Spain’s men’s national team. Velasco and the Spanish Federation, RFEVB, have mutually decided to terminate his contract. RFEVB was pleased with how Velasco developed the Spanish team since 2008 but they just couldn’t afford to keep him until next year.
Blame it on recession!
RFEVB President Agustín Martín Santos has released this statement on its website:
During the time that Julio Velasco has been leading the national team, there has been a generational change and July has had to work under difficult circumstances, particularly in its final stage, in which the team had to go to compete with a template absolutely decimated by numerous sports injuries, joint at all coincided with the proclamation of European Champion in 2007. Still, you have got two second places in the European League qualifying for the last World Championship in Italy and a worthy ninth place in the latter.
I really think anyone could have improved these results with a team that was in full swing with the addition of young athletes and the absence of their best players for various sports injuries,” said federation leader, who expressed regret at the departure of technician: “It is unfortunate that the delicate moment we live does not allow Spain to continue with Julio Velasco, for unquestionably is one of the best coaches in the world and was doing great work in the medium term.
I appreciate the generosity that has had to terminate the contract.
Awwww what a great letter! We’re glad that they were able to separate in good terms unlike how Anastasi left the Italian Team. Anyways, Velasco is indeed a great coach. He pushed Spain to finish in the Top 12 at the World Championship (they almost beat Cuba in 5 sets).
We wish Velasco the best!
Side Dish: Julio Velasco is from Argentina who led the Italian men’s team to a SILVER medal in the 1996 Olympics. He coached the women’s for 1 season (1996-1997) and became the coach of Spain in 2008. As for Spain, the men’s team is scheduled to compete in the 2011 European League later this year.
(images: as.com/ fivb.org)