Albertis: “Panathinaikos is getting ready to write history in Australia – the huge work of P. Giannakopoulos”

The countdown to the 7th Tournament “Pavlos Giannakopoulos” which will take place in Australia, reaches its end with Panathinaikos preparing to honor the memory of his historical administrative leader in the presence of Greeks.

The flagship leader of the club, Franciscan and “child” of the late Pavlos Giannakopoulos, spoke to ‘SBS Greek’ For the tournament and the importance of Panathinaikos, the fact that this will be held in Australia.

Among other things, Franci, talked about his own relationship with Pavlos Giannakopoulos, the transmission of the story to the younger generation, as well as the titles of the basketball team.

In detail what he said to SBS Greek:

For the importance of conducting the 7th Pavlos Giannakopoulos tournament in Australia: “It shows the dynamic and incredible appeal of this team, the team made by Pavlos Giannakopoulos and we honor his offer with a tournament every year. Being in Australia with so much Hellenism waiting to see Panathinaikos is a big deal and emotion for us. I believe we are the only team that organizes such a tournament. A fantastic tournament last year in Kallimarmaro, a historic site that became a global event.

This year we are coming to Australia, a huge country that has a very large number of Greeks. It is a great pleasure to make this tournament worldwide. For me it is a very wise move. There will be people who were just watching television or listening to Panathinaikos on the radio, watching him closely and understanding exactly what was going on. This will be able to “make” new Panathinaikos friends, even if it is so far away. So be all ready because we will have a great time. We look forward to seeing them closely. “

For his relationship with Pavlos Giannakopoulos: “I grew up with him! From the first day I came to the last it was a father figure, not just for me. For everyone. He has done everything for Panathinaikos and Greek basketball. It has contributed to make this team a myth on European stadiums. He left behind a huge work, which continues and grows by Mr. Dimitris Giannakopoulos. He does everything for the team to grow and the name of his father, Paul, to stay in history forever. “

How he perceives the transmission of history to the younger generation: “The new generation of Panathinaikos fans is lucky enough to see the team at a high level. Mr. Dimitris Giannakopoulos has created a unique stadium in Europe. The atmosphere has now passed to another level. Something that proves the hundreds, not to say more, kids with their families who come in every game. Now, AFA games are an event every team that is for the whole family. At the same time, the team is proceeding properly … “.

For whom the title of those he won stands out: “It will be injustice to distinguish someone. The first European certainly has a special place in our memory. Each title required a great deal of struggle and effort. Each title has particular weight and value. “

For the new season: “We are doomed to fight for all the titles and to claim victory every time. It’s too early and needs a lot of hard work and effort. The team has done its best to get the best players he could. Now all the players stay together and work together. “