THIS could be the last time that Luciano De Cecco steps onto a FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship court and he intends to savor every moment, determined to cherish what he considers the greatest experience of his life—playing for Argentina.
Now in his sixth consecutive appearance on the World Championship stage, no doubt an impressive feat, the 37-year-old setter is uncertain about what the future holds, but one thing is clear: he is committed to giving everything to help Argentina’s quest for a first world title.
“I can play, and I can try to help my team and my country to reach the highest level, for me is enough. If this is the last [tournament], I do not know, but playing for Argentina is the best experience of my life,” De Cecco said.
“I want the best for the national team in Argentina,” he added, mindful that the country’s first and only medal in the World Championship, a bronze, came in the 1982 edition when they hosted the tournament.
With Father Time obviously catching up with him, De Cecco—who first joined the team in 2006—said he is preparing to pass the torch, guiding the next generation of Argentine stars and sharing everything he has learned so they can carry the team into the future.
He did just that as the former 2020 Olympic bronze medalist came off the bench in their opening match against Finland, providing stability that enabled Argentina to secure a 19-25, 18-25, 25-22, 25-22, 15-11 reverse-sweep victory in Pool C on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
“I think that my mentality is to lead the younger ones and to put my experience, my talent and my mentality for the group to try to grow up. I am one of the last ones, so I try to help these guys and enjoy the game,” said De Cocco, who made it clear he is not ready to hang up his sneakers and shirt just yet.
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