Chat with Gio

We recently were able to have a short little chat with Giovanni Savarese, the Director of Cosmos Academy East. The questions, which were asked by followers of the Borough Boys, focused on his new role with the academy and its future direction.

TICC: What appealed to you about the Cosmos Academy East role and how has your experience been so far?

GIO: The most appealing part about the Cosmos Academy was the fact that there was a clear plan about developing a strong base of talent for the future. Since the first moment I met with the Board of Directors, I felt that we were on the same page with what we are looking for at the Youth level. We have already made big progress in a short amount of time.

TICC:  What are the Goals of the Academy and where do you see it in 5 years? 

GIO The main goal is to develop the talent in New York under a professional environment. We are committed to developing the best players regardless of their background or financial status. In five years from now, I envision Cosmos Academy East as the feeding youth system for the New York Cosmos’ MLS team, an ambition that we have already put out there. 

 TICC: So you see the Academy forming partnerships with an MLS team? (e.g. Cosmos) 

GIO: It is our ambition to be participating in the MLS in the near future. The New York Cosmos has a great history not only in New York but also around the entire world. It is amazing the passion that The New York Cosmos crest still brings. With The New York Cosmos, Giants Stadium had the privilege to have witnessed the best players soccer has ever seen.  We are looking forward to having our young, rising talents be the main core of a future MLS team.

TICC: Can you share anything about Alex Muyl and his recent call up to the U-17 Residency program?

GIO: We are extremely proud that one of our Academy players has been chosen to be in the U-17 US roster. His accomplishment will be a motivation for other Cosmos Academy players to follow his footsteps.

TICC: How can someone get in contact with the Academy and either sign a child up or watch some of the matches?

GIO: They will have to navigate on our website, www.nycosmos.com <http://www.nycosmos.com/>  or other local soccer websites to be aware of our periodical announcements regarding tryouts and games.

 

TICC: Finally, While your career saw you play in various countries, what is your fondest memory of New York City soccer?

GIO: I played in New York for many different teams - MetroStars, LI Rough Riders, Long Island University and the Greek Americans - and they all represent special moments in my soccer memories.


We are happy to see that the academy is not only focused on developing young talent but that it also hopes to serve as an opportunity to play at the highest level.

Thank you for your time Mr. Savarese and best of luck in your new role.