I’ve returned back to Istanbul after a successful trip to Cologne, Germany. It was a 5 team tournament stacked with some of the best talent and skill wheelchair basketball has to offer — shame only the top 2 teams moved on to Champions Cup. Needless to say the stakes were high! We had some closely contested matches, but at the end of the weekend we were able to escape without a single loss.
I have really enjoyed being apart of this team and we have played well together all year, but this tournament specifically put the mirror in front of us, showing areas of strength and improvement. Reflecting on how the games unfolded I am left with a sense of confidence not because we won all of the games, but because we were able to do so when in my opinion didn’t perform to the level of potential we as a team posses. The games we played in this competition with out a doubt served there purpose as a measuring stick, and most importantly we have proven ourselves qualified to compete amongst the top 8 teams in Europe in the final Euro league tournament that will decide which team is the best — Champions Cup.
The Galatasaray Team’s Enthusiastic Fans
We were greeted at the airport by a crowd of loyal supporters of our team making us feel right at home. They welcomed us with flowers, hugs, cheers, songs. It was really amazing! A lot of the fans were locals of the area we were in, but some of them traveled from far away places just to be with us during the matches — showing an unbelievable amount of devotion. I’ve played wheelchair basketball for a long time and have never witnessed fans like this team has. The support that they have given us over the years is remarkable and in my opinion Galatasaray fans are the best in the world! They made the games a pleasure to be apart of! Hundreds of Galatasaray supporters were in attendance and made their presence felt. The intensity of the games mixed with the enthusiasm of the crowd created such an incredible atmosphere. I am very much looking forward to Champions Cup!
Relaxation & Site Seeing in Cologne, Germany
This trip was also enjoyable for reasons outside of sport. For one I love to travel! Especially to places I’ve never been before. Also, it was the longest trip so far this year. It was nice to spend some quality time with my teammates getting to know all of them much better. The other teams also have players that I have either played with or against for many years or very close personal friends with, and it was a joy to compete against them, but also turn down the intensity a little and enjoy each others company.
Cologne was a really nice town, and we were able to do some sight seeing during our downtime. Mostly shopping centers and restaurants but the Cologne Cathedral was breathtaking!
Now that its over and we got the result we were chasing, Its time to prepare for our next goal!
Matt I am very proud of your teams success, but most of all I am proud of of you and your determination. Continue to reach high and the sky is yours.
God Bless you Matt. I am with you always in spirit at your games , even though I am at home holding my breath until you return home. You should see the look on Alex’s face, he is so proud. Go for it as always Matt. Bring home the Cup. Love Mom