Here's another instalment of 'On The Bench,' as we get to know the coaches who are leading their teams out into Season 2022.
This week we get to know RAA NPLSA Senior Men's and new Campbelltown City coach, Michael Matricciani.
Why did you become a coach?
I see my coaching as a profession. My first coaching job was at 16, coaching my younger brother's Futsal team. It was a natural progression for me after my playing career was cut short at 28. I have been coaching full-time for 15 years in various coaching roles, and am grateful to live from football.
Who is your coaching idol; and why?
I study all types of football but the two coaches I admire and study the most have been and are Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho.
Coaching mentors have been a major part of my journey both locally and internationally. To name a few would be Airton Andrioli, Aurelio Vidmar and Phil Stubbins whom are all coaches I hold in high regard and value their advice.
What has been your biggest achievement(s) as a coach?
Having coached in a number of different job roles and age groups, success for me comes in a number of different ways, it was making 3-5 year olds fall in love with the game and gaining the confidence to not need their parents in class anymore.
Working with out Next Step programs at Soccajoeys and seeing the joy football can bring, helping the progression of players playing at a higher level, into the A-Leagues and the Matildas.
And of course winning two promotions one in the women's SL1 and mens SL2.
Best SA team to watch, past or present, that excites you as a coach.
Apart from the Adelaide United teams under Josep Gombau I have full respect for the Campbelltown Championship teams under Joe Mullen.
As a player even though we didn't win a Championship the 2010 & 2011 MetroStars teams under Dave Terminello, were the best two years of football that I have been apart of.
What excites you most about the 2022 Season?
The RAA NPLSA is getting better every year, the social media coverage and fan engagement is the best it has ever been. At Campbelltown City our goal is to challenge for all 3 trophies so that is what excites me the most.
Name a player in your squad under the age of 23 who we should look out for in 2022 and why?
Antony Piscioneri and Nick Francese
Which new transfer are you most excited to be working with and why?
We have signed a few new players this season most I have coached before so I would say Josh Barresi and Yohei Matsumoto are the two new players I haven't coached before so I am excited to work with both of them.
And finally....Besides finishing as high in the table as possible, what are your goals for the season ahead?
My goals for the season are getting my players to believe in my game model and playing style. It's a process, with new ideas and new job roles for some players. With hard work we can achieve this and the results will take care of themselves.