With his Italian league team Chieri out of cup contention, Germany’s new women’s coach Giovanni Guidetti can now concentrate fully on his job with the German Volleyball Association’s national squad. In an interview, the 33 year-old Italian explains the reasons for his move, his objectives and his opinions of Germany’s women’s team.

Why did you want to become the coach of Germany’s women’s team?
Guidetti: “Because the German federation is one of the most important in the world. Because I know most of the players and I like their style. And because I’ve missed international volleyball and the World Championships in Japan is a fantastic target to work towards.”

What are your objectives for the German team?
Guidetti: “In addition to qualifying for the European Championships and a good ranking at the World Championships – I would like to finish among the top 8, but I know that will be difficult – I would above all like to improve the younger players and find the right balance between young and experienced players. I would also like to convince people that no team is unbeatable. If we train well and improve, we can play at the same level as any other team.”

What do you think about your opponents in the European Championship qualifiers, France, Georgia and Belarus?
Guidetti: “We have to beat all of these teams.”

Have you already spoken to Grün, Pachale, Kulakova and Dumler about your new job? If not, when will you speak to Germany’s “Italians”?

Guidetti: “I’ve spoken to Dumler and she’s ready. I haven’t had a chance yet to talk to Kulakova and I’ll be speaking to Grün and Pachale very soon.”

What’s your view of German Volleyball? What are its strengths and weaknesses?
Guidetti: “I think that, with the exception of the past two years, German Volleyball has made some sound achievements and the players have worked well in the past. I have always admired the dedication and team spirit among the German players. The only weakness may be the inexperience of some players at the top level.”

What do the Italian press, the club and your colleagues think about your new job?
Guidetti: “I’ve received a lot of congratulations and good wishes and my club Chieri has been very understanding.”

When will you start preparations?
Guidetti: “I will be in Germany from 5 - 7 May to see two league games. I’ll start preparations with the team on 13 May.”