Viareggio 2011 overview with Club administrator Tony Raciti

Viareggio is without any doubt or argument whatsoever, the most prestigious youth club tournament in the world. The tournament in 2011 will be the 63rd edition, which is the longest held club team competition ever in football history.
Having had the privilege and honour of assisting with the tournament organisation in the past eight years- the whole tournament and involvement, from both a players, coaches and administrator’s point of view, is simply an eye opener.
What I have witnessed and learnt from the very first tour over a 17 day period I had not gained the same knowledge and experience in my involvement over 35 years in the game.
Firstly, our Youth players are damn good, very good – strong, fit, athletic, fast, courageous, honest and 100% performers, every single time. But, the Italian Youth players are all of the above, plus more. Their thinking, timing, technique, ball control, cunningness, tactical awareness, maturity and vision surpasses the majority of our players.
Remember I said the majority, not all of our players. The advantage they have is the fact that their youth players have quality coaches at a young age.
As well they are prepared mentally and physically, again at a young age, with the correct technique, mentality and discipline at all times, from both an individual and team perspective. Having said all of the above, as they say it is better to be late, than never.
And Yes, it is not too late for our players to adapt to the Italian, European and South American approach.
For an Australian Youth player being involved in this tournament, gives them a massive edge and distinct advantage over other Youth players from within Australia.
The main reason being, is that in 17 short days, they will quickly realise and establish in their minds how high is the ‘BAR’, and what they need to do to achieve their goal, and reach that ‘Benchmark’.
Being an outstanding and promising youth player in Australia, is simply not enough to play overseas at the highest level. Remember, there are hundreds of thousands of outstanding Youth players overseas.
So obviously overseas coaches and clubs are not going to select players who are equal to those in Italy. You have to obviously, be better than what they have.
Otherwise what would be the purpose of selecting players from overseas. Viareggio attendance, participation and involvement should, and does open far and wide a player’s eyes on what is required, to step up. A number of players who have been to Viareggio have improved their attitude and commitment, determined to be a stronger and more accomplished player.
They have returned with a strong and burning desire to “lift their game” as a footballer.
Every single player that has been to Viareggio has said it was the greatest experience in their life-on and off the park. I have no doubt the current 2011 APIA Football Club touring team, will also share this fabulous, once in a life time experience.
-APIA Leichhardt Tigers Press Release