Men even before players. A game system before the single. These were the keys to Tortona’s dream season that conquered the Pala Gianni Asti against all odds. The favorite was Torino, but Bertram proved to be of the same level and quality. A victory built by a company that has always been a family, made up of many former players such as the managing director Marco Picchi or the president Roberto Tava who embody the Tortona spirit, in which the patron and main sponsor Beniamino also joined. Gavio. From Castelnuovo to the management of an empire, for everyone Gavio in Tortona is Mino, a person who, despite his role and importance, is always available. It is no coincidence that he attended the match with the fans, rejoicing and suffering with them. From the arrival of the team bus at midnight until the wee hours there was a party in the streets of the city.
The Turin company, the hugs, the party. Beniamino Gavio, what did you feel?
“Sorry for the low voice, we screamed and hung out late. Huge satisfaction, I’m happy with how people reacted, so much enthusiasm, so many young people. On Sunday evening there was a feeling of being at home. The city was with the team, we are happy, it was a long night of partying. We waited for the boys and ate together ».
At what moment of the season did you realize that Bertram could do it?
«We left to go to the playoffs, then after Ravenna we believed a little more, knowing that Turin was stronger and more physical, but the group made the difference. I’m talking about everyone: guys, staff and management. I have been involved for three and a half years and I am very happy that in this dark period we are living a dream ».
What were the keys to success?
«The group, made up of guys who never give up. Like Fabi who wanted to play in game 5 despite being stretched, Tavernelli who was in pain and went out on the pitch. But also Sanders, Cannon, Severini, Mascolo, all gave their contribution ».
There is a big project in Rivalta for the new home of the Lions. Where are we at? «We have left, we have finished the excavations and the preparatory works are about to begin. It is a project I believed in, with a long and complex process. Two years to finish the work ».
Where will Tortona play next season?
“We will take stock with the coach and the club, surely we need a building that is not too far away, even for training, and we will have to decide whether to stay in Piedmont or move”.
Many dedicated the victory to Luigino Fassino, soul of Derthona, who died two years ago.
«I remember when he came to me to get involved, I started taking care of Derthona and Luigino was a special person. I think that wherever he is he has seen the race and was very happy, I dedicate the victory to our people. Basketball can be a driving force to promote this territory ».
Tortona is in the Olympus of basketball and will compete with Bologna, Milan, Sassari and Venice. What should be the spirit and what can one aspire to for the first year in A1?
«We approach this championship with a lot of humility and respect to understand the new reality. We are with our feet on the ground. In life, things are built a little at a time, I care and the fact of having arrived in A1 for merits is a source of great pride. We will have an important budget, the company has its accounts in place. Then many components are needed in addition to the economic one ».
It’s party time, but we need to lay the foundations for the top flight. Starting with coach Marco Ramondino?
«We haven’t talked about it yet, but I have a good relationship with Marco and I think he’s a very good coach. I think he should be given the chance to coach in the top flight ». –
Marco Quaglini