You Become a Champion When You Feel the Love for the Game

Interview with Lachezar Kotsev, President of Basketball Club "Champion 2006", Sofia

The club has a 15-year history. Do you remember how the idea of founding the club was born and how it all started?
It's impossible to forget! The idea came with a lot of desire and love. It was clear there was a need for more basketball clubs in Sofia. We took the opportunity and in 2006 founded "Champion 2006".

What has been the biggest challenge you have faced over the years?
The biggest challenge was making "Champion 2006" a recognizable club. Today, we are proud of our basketball school, which achieves success and develops players.

Which victory will you never forget and why?
I will never forget the club’s first medal with the 1991/1992 age group cadets, won with a dramatic victory over Overgas in Varna. That was when we proved we have the potential to be true "Champions."

What is the heaviest loss and what makes it so difficult?
We try not to think of losses as defeats. On the contrary, often you can learn more lessons from a loss that make you better.

Do you remember the exact number of trophies and medals your teams have won since the club was founded?
I have not counted them, but the club has been multiple-time national champion in both boys’ and girls’ categories. The latest championship title was with the U19 girls in the 2020/2021 season. Over 40 players have been called up to national teams at various age levels.

Can it be said that the interest in basketball among children is increasing?
Definitely yes. In our club, we have boys and girls from 7 to 20 years old. This year we will have a total of 13 teams in both directions.

Are girls or boys more passionate about the sport?
There are more boys in number, but girls, when passionate, are very persistent and do not yield to boys. They win as many trophies and medals as the boys.

Is becoming a champion only about winning?
You become a champion the moment you become part of the team, score your first basket, and feel the love for the game.

What qualities or physical attributes are necessary to become a good basketball player? Which are non-negotiable?
To become a good player, a person needs a combination of qualities. I would highlight hard work, discipline, dedication, motivation, and willpower. Physically: height, speed, agility, jumping ability, reaction speed, and strength.

How has the global pandemic and indoor gathering restrictions affected you?
The Covid pandemic has had consequences across all areas. For us, the restrictions impacted initial child selection and unfortunately, we could not fulfill our set goals during periods of suspended training and competitions.

How do you overcome such difficulties and maintain team spirit?
Team spirit is always present here – maybe that’s why our team is called "Champion." Despite the pandemic, we managed to unite and achieve very good results. The toughest and most important battle is to keep children coming to the basketball hall, engage them in sports, develop their value system, and keep them away from street dangers.

When does a sports club need additional support?
Maintaining a sports club today is a huge financial burden. To function normally, clubs need funds for hall rental, paying coaches, participating in championships, etc. Every help is crucial, especially during a pandemic.

The Subra Pharmacy chain supports your club. How has this cooperation helped you?
For many years, Mr. Todor Dochev and his family have supported our club. I want to express special thanks for their unconditional help. We also hope to develop our future projects with the support of Subra Pharmacies.

Is it true that "White Men Can’t Jump," as the famous basketball movie says?
With a smile – white men can definitely jump, and they know how to score too!

What is your wish for all the little champions to always be "Number 1"?
To be hardworking, to want to develop, to seek the best in themselves, to set very high goals, not to give up in difficult moments, because they will surely come, and to trust their coaches.

Note: We need to confirm with Mr. Kotsev whether the championship title from the 2020/2021 season is the latest or if there have been new victories since November. If there are updates, we can edit the text accordingly.