Thunder boss prepares for the future of NPLQ
FOOTBALL: South-West Thunder coach Francesco Zanoncelli may be the busiest man in the National Premier Leagues Queensland.
After taking over the senior men’s team in April, the Italian has taken on coaching duties with the under 20s, under 18s and a plethora of the club’s junior sides when he gets time.
But the hectic schedule only drives him on.
“I am a busy man but I am happy with my life because this is my profession,” the former AC Milan defender said.
While his side prepares to take on Gold Coast City today, Zanoncelli has now held the top job for longer than his predecessor Fernando Garcia.
Garcia was replaced after five games and his successor is now comfortable with the position his side is in with the prospect of relegation from the NPLQ looming next season.
“I’m happy because from the beginning I saw improvement,” Zanoncelli said.
“As individual players and as a team they have grown in personality and in their confidence - they now believe in themselves.”
While an attempt to build-on an impressive 2016 season have not quite gone to plan, the coach is backing his side to avoid the drop next season.
But he is under no illusions as to what that will
take, and knows the best starting point is three points against City today.
“The situation next season will be completely different with relegation,” he said.
“It doesn’t matter if you are losing or winning you will need three points from seniors and under 18s.
“We have to be ready as well because we a re under pressure.”
The Thunder women go into their game against Easts on the back of breaking a losing streak in the previous round.
The club’s confidence will be boosted when it takes on Easts thanks to a 5-3 win against Sunshine Coast a week ago.