David Rivers’ United Message for Olympiacos: “Give your players your constant support”

I watched this year’s Final Four Games and read several statements and placements that followed, about Olympiacos. Let me be short. A wave of intense criticism has erupted on all sides of the triangle (administration, coaches, players). There have been interesting exchanges of views, for good old and bad times in the team’s history.

Throughout this vitriolic outburst there were messages of encouragement to the team. Here’s my brief thought (understanding that the team has reached four consecutive Final Four, but failed to conquer the trophy …).

All these emotions – like all in life – will pass, but they will remain engraved in the memories. Everything I read and heard is perfectly understandable. But what you need now is to understand that what is expressed is simply the proof of passion that is deeply rolled in the Olympic veins!

No one is going to stop supporting the reds. Neither should, nor can it be in your blood. Olympiacos is really an extension of your families. Personally, for me, it is beautiful to see that the heart of the fans remains strong and unmoved. It is this passion that I always remember and feel whenever I have the pleasure of returning to Greece (to see and feel the passion!).

So what should be done from now on? Players, coaches and management are well aware that they have not achieved the goal. And that hurts them more than you can imagine. Believe me, I know. So let’s take a deep breath (or even many) and let’s get out of the ground again, let’s get out of the darkness we have sunk, let’s shake the dust out of our hands and knees, and let’s pull the rope together again. ALL Together!

Because one thing is for sure. There are still matches to be played and there is a last title to be conquered. And victory is the best medicine for pain, recovery and refreshed hope!

My advice? Give players your continued support. Show them that you are still by their side, whatever happens until the end of the season (because you are with them). Expectations by players, coaches and management is to show character in frustration, to continue to believe and fight as a team. For you, the devoted fans, the heart of red lions. And so is the same is needed by you. Continue to be present, filling the stands, singing the hymns and stories of the past and present of the great history of Olympiacos!

And to the players. You fell. “And so?” I say. Get up and fight even harder. Fight for something bigger than yourself. Fight every day to be ready (in mind, body and soul) to write history. Nothing is given in this life, except that one day we will no longer have these moments, nor these blessed opportunities you have now. Continue to believe, rebuild, renewing trust. Give your heart and accept whatever pain comes with this opening in the course of the joy of victory and the creation of unforgettable moments.

Forward, together. Everything.