Unrivaled haughtiness or self-importance - The head of HSV criticizes the work of anti-doping organizations.
Jonas Boldt (42), the sports director of HSV, shared his feelings about the recent events with the "Volksparkett," a panel of HSV fans, prior to the match against 1. FC Nürnberg. Last week, Boldt accompanied his player Mario Vuskovic (22) to Lausanne, Switzerland, for the Court of Arbitration for Sport's (CAS) proceedings on Epo doping charges.
"It was an incredibly emotional experience there," Boldt reflects on his ordeal with Vuskovic. "Seeing the young man in such a situation, after working with him for a year and a half, really impacted me. Those few days were incredibly difficult for him. You could see it in his demeanor. Mario was sobbing as he made his statement. It's all over now. Eventually, there will be a decision."
Is there any suggestion that the central defender will be playing for HSV again soon? His suspension lasts until November 14, 2024, and he's fighting for a not-guilty verdict at CAS. The anti-doping agencies Nada and Wada, on the other hand, are urging an extension of his punishment to November 2026.
Boldt comments, "He's still in peak physical condition, and he's made the most of his time so far. But if the anti-doping agency's only argument is that they're always right and that they're the only ones who never make mistakes, you can't argue with that arrogance. This doesn't mean I'm against anti-doping measures. However, I've learned that the mechanism for detecting Epo is unreliable."
During the warm-up, the HSV team wore black shirts with the words "Team 44 Mario" as a display of solidarity with Vuskovic. After scoring the first goal to make it 1-0 against Nuremberg, Robert Glatzel (30) ran to the bench and lifted Vuskovic's jersey high.
Midfielder Laszlo Benes (26) explains, "We've supported Mario from day one. We want to help him through this difficult time. The worst thing for a footballer is not being allowed to play. These actions are intended to provide him with strength and encouragement. I'm hoping for a favorable outcome."
Vuskovic, who was at the Volksparkstadion for the club's match against Nuremberg on Sunday, was touched by the support from his teammates and fans. He expresses his gratitude on Instagram, "The support from the fans, friends, and family means the world to me. I'm very optimistic about the trial in Lausanne. The verdict may be announced in July. I hope to return to the pitch for HSV next season."
Back to the "Volksparkett." Boldt's disappointment with the end of the season is apparent, "It's disheartening because it was apparent that we didn't secure promotion by match day 33. We're not happy about it. There was a feeling that every 50-50 situation worked against us. It shouldn't be an excuse; rather, it should serve as motivation to improve in the future."
To achieve promotion at the seventh attempt, Boldt believes that the club needs to transfer their teamwork and perseverance to the field, "You have to bring the incredible camaraderie that exists in this club and the determination that exists to the pitch." Regarding personnel? "We've made significant progress in our planning."
The former Leverkusen player shares his desire to work for the club, "Seeing what's grown here is striking. I believe we're not even close to reaching our full potential."
However, there is still uncertainty about Boldt's future with the club.
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Source: symclub.org