 |
Vladimir ZinichevGeneral Director of one of the national team's base clubs, Moscow Dynamo
Country:
 Russia |
Content:
- Moscow Dynamo: A Season of Stability and Reflection
- Silver Lining
- Seeking Stability
- Kazan's Success
- Final Series Disappointment
- Coach Contract Renewal
- Transfer Market Priorities
- Kosheleva's Recovery
- Обмочаева's Loyalty
- Departing Players
Moscow Dynamo: A Season of Stability and Reflection
As the Russian women's national team embarks on its first tournament under new head coach Yuri Marichev in Montreux, Switzerland, Moscow Dynamo General Manager reflects on the team's 2012/13 season.
Silver Lining
Dynamo has claimed the silver medal in the Russian Super League for the fourth consecutive year. While failing to secure the title, General Manager acknowledges the team's consistency: "After our revival in 2004, Dynamo has not missed a single final, winning three of them." He adds, "This silver is a good result, especially considering the tragedy at the start of the season."
Seeking Stability
The season began with the loss of head coach Sergei Ovchinnikov, prompting the need for a new coaching staff and organizational restructuring. The General Manager emphasizes that demanding a championship under these circumstances was unrealistic.
Kazan's Success
When asked about Kazan Dynamo, which defeated Moscow Dynamo in the Cup final and Champions League playoffs, the General Manager downplays the role of star player Ekaterina Gamova: "Kazan has had an almost unchanged lineup for three years, a level of consistency unmatched by any other Super League club." He adds that many of Kazan's leaders gained experience in major matches while playing for Moscow Dynamo.
Final Series Disappointment
After winning the first match of the final series 3-1, Moscow Dynamo lost the next three without winning a set. The General Manager attributes this to overconfidence: "We overestimated our abilities and underestimated Kazan, and this lack of motivation impacted the result."
Coach Contract Renewal
Svetlana Ilich remains the head coach of Dynamo after signing a new one-year contract. She will begin preparing the team for the next season on July 1st, while also conducting training sessions for the Swiss national team.
Transfer Market Priorities
The General Manager identifies re-signing Natasha Osmokrović as a top priority. He also confirms the acquisition of Sanja Popović, Katarina Tretiakova, and Olga Zhitova. Additionally, the club has high hopes for the recovering Vera Vetrova and Tatiana Kosheleva.
Kosheleva's Recovery
Kosheleva, who played a key role in Russia's 2010 World Championship victory, is recovering from a serious injury. The General Manager is confident she will return to form before the Rio Olympics but emphasizes that there is no rush.
Обмочаева's Loyalty
Despite rumors, Natalia Obmochaeva, who succeeded Gamova as the team's leader, has signed a new contract with Dynamo. Her husband, Alexei Obmochaev, has also recently moved to Dynamo Moscow.
Departing Players
Maria Perepelkina and Anna Makarova are temporarily suspending their careers due to family reasons. The General Manager emphasizes that they remain part of the Dynamo family and hopes to work with them in the future.
