Olimpia Milano, Ettore Messina explains his resignation
With an open letter on the team’s official website Ettore Messina announced the reasons for his resignation as head coach of Olimpia Milano. Here is the text.
“You will forgive me if I express with this letter, and not with a press conference or interviews, the reasons for the decision I took, with a serene and constructive spirit, today. From the very first day of training in August, I have taken great pleasure in going to the gym with the entire team group, including sanitarians, physiotherapists, trainers and the rest of the staff, whom I unite in heartfelt thanks. So, you may ask, why leave the bench (but not the club)?”
“The reason is very simple: I realized that I have become – not as of today – a divisive and, consequently, distracting factor. Even while striving to do my job in the best possible way, every circumstance turned into an opportunity to open a referendum for or against my person. For this reason (and this reason alone), I decided to eliminate a situation that had become a source of great tension for me and for the team and the company cause of harm. By eliminating the cause of tensions, I believe I am best exercising the responsibility entrusted to me by Mr. Giorgio Armani and the club since my first day in Olimpia.”
“This year, in particular, I struggled to accept the climate, so much so that at times I even hesitated to climb the last steps to the court. Therefore, my decision has only one purpose: to foster a moment of unity, creating the conditions for everyone to gather around the team. With the deep conviction that the group can achieve excellent results, as it has already shown despite numerous injuries.”
“I remain the first Olimpia fan and, above all, I remain in the club to give my contribution to face the new off-court challenges, which are just around the corner. In this sense, I am very happy and motivated to continue working alongside our President Leo Dell’Orco.”
“Looking ahead, I am sure that Peppe and the coaching staff will continue to work with the commitment and competence that they have never lacked. If they have everyone’s help, they will achieve the sporting results we hope for. The members of the technical staff know that I remain at their disposal for whatever they may need, but I know that they will know how to guide in the best way our Olimpia, which now only needs serenity and unity. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
