Since Pablo Ruiz, Andrew Brody and Josh Heard had a more than successful time at FC Pinzgau Saalfelden a few years ago, the local fans now always take a very close look at US-American newcomers. The expectations are correspondingly high. Last season, for example, Sota Kitahara was able to meet these expectations. The former junior international quickly became an indispensable part of the team, delivering consistently good performances and impressing with his calmness on the ball and his fighting spirit. With Nicholas Bianchi and Juan Alvarez, there are currently two US boys in the squad again, who are currently undergoing intensive winter preparation under the direction of Markus Fürstaller.
“My first days here in Pinzgau were great and I’ve already had a lot of great experiences. When I went to college back then, I already left my home country. That was already a big step, but now being in a whole new country is something else again. I have to say I haven’t regretted my decision for a second and I’m happy to be here. I want to use this time to learn and improve. But not only from a sporting point of view, but above all as a person I want to absorb everything and take it with me. For me, it’s the perfect place right now. My teammates, the coaches and the people at the club have made it very easy for me. There is a clear idea here, you can feel that every day,” reports Nicholas Bianchi, who obviously feels very comfortable.
Last year, the 20-year-old transferred to Gonzaga University, which not only provides an excellent education but is also a perfect sporting fit for the offensive player. After his Austrian adventure, Bianchi wants to return there and push his dream of a professional career. “I’ve been playing soccer since I was three years old and I fell in love with the game very quickly. Soccer means everything to me. My father has pushed and supported me tremendously along the way. I hope to continue playing as long as I can. It’s my dream to reach the next level. It was really emotional to leave my friends and family, but everyone is very supportive of my decision and I’m thankful for everyone in my life who is behind me,” the winter newcomer admits.
Father As Important Mentor
Papa Bianchi has always played a crucial role, challenging and encouraging his son in all aspects of life: “My father is my great role model. He has been with me through all the ups and downs and has always given me advice and support. Without him, I probably wouldn’t have been able to follow my path in the way I did. My goals are to play at a high level and to consistently improve as a player and as a person. I have been given the chance to show myself here at FC Pinzgau – I want to make the most of this opportunity,” explains the 20-year-old.
In a stressful everyday life, it’s important to be able to unwind and recharge your batteries every now and then. In the USA, Bianchi has already found his relaxation set-up, we are sure that he will soon find his places to unwind in Pinzgau as well. “My favorite place in the USA is Rochester, New York, where most of my family lives. The weather is always beautiful there and provides a stress-free and relaxing environment for my family and me every time I travel. I will always call Phoenix home and I miss it every day. My family and friends are all there and nothing beats the warm weather and beautiful places there,” Bianchi, who is considered very caring, adventurous and adaptable, says with a big grin. The US American is generally enthusiastic about sports and shows great interest in the various sports. One thing is very important to him, however: competition is the be-all and end-all – it’s the only way to push yourself even further.