Club Communications Manager (FOB): To start with, what are your overall thoughts on the first half of the season?
Thibaut Petit, Head Coach (TP): Hello, thank you. We are very pleased with how things have gone so far. With an 80% win rate, whether in the Swiss league or on the European stage, this is an extremely encouraging record. This is a testament to the hard work of the whole team: the board, the coaching and medical staff, and our players, who always give their all in every match.
FOB: You mention a positive outcome, but what do you think were the key factors behind this success?
TP: There are several factors behind our results. First and foremost, the stability and cohesion of the team: every player knows their role and contributes to the team’s success. Secondly, the quality of our physical training with coach Faycel was key to ensuring we were competitive right from the start of the season. Finally, our supporters played a crucial role, although, to be honest, I was a bit disappointed by the low turnout for the Swiss Cup match. Their support remains essential, however, especially in difficult times.
FOB: Speaking of difficult times, what obstacles did you encounter during the first half of the season?
TP: There have been some, of course. Injuries to key players such as Martin, Offurum, Kovac, Massimiliano Dell’Acqua and Cheikh Sane have been particularly difficult to deal with. These absences disrupted our momentum and certainly contributed to our elimination from the Swiss Cup.
However, these challenges have also prompted us to take action alongside the President. We’ve had the opportunity to sign two new players, Michel and AJ, who will be staying with us until early February. Of course, we need to give them a bit of time to settle in properly with the group. Their first performance was, however, quite encouraging, and we are optimistic about what they can contribute. Bringing in new players is always a challenge, but we’ll do everything we can to make it work and ensure they settle into our system quickly.
FOB: Speaking of progress, what are your ambitions for 2025?
TP: One of my key objectives for 2025 is to strengthen the collaboration between the Fribourg Youth Academy and the Fribourg Olympic first team. On the ground, we have seen progress, but when it comes to coordination between the leaders of the two entities, there is still a great deal to be done.
I am convinced that Fribourg Olympic and its academy must operate as a single entity in spirit, even though, in legal terms, they will remain separate. This is a crucial step in shaping the future of basketball in Fribourg and ensuring a smooth transition between young talent and the professional team.
FOB: You’re also in a very strong position in the Swiss league. What are your goals for the rest of the season?
TP: In the league, our aim remains to finish top and maximise our chances of winning the title. It won’t be easy, as the competition is fierce. We need to stay focused and get our injured players back to full fitness so that we can go into the play-offs in the best possible shape.
At the same time, we want to continue making progress on the European stage. These matches are a fantastic learning opportunity and excellent preparation for the major events to come.
FOB: What would you say to the fans to round off this first half of the season?
TP: First and foremost, a huge thank you to our supporters. Their support, just like in our last match against the Foxes, is a real asset, especially in tough moments. We hope to continue putting on great performances for them and to see even more of them coming along to spur us on to greater heights.
FOB: Thank you very much for this interview, and good luck for the rest of the season and your plans for 2025.
TP: Thank you, happy holidays to everyone, and see you soon on the dance floor!
