Joe Germanese Q & A Interview

Joe Germanese was selected with the 27th overall pick by the New England Revolution at the 2008 Major League Soccer SuperDraft. Soccer City FC had already interviewed Joe prior to the MLS combine. He was kind enough to speak with us again before leaving for the Revolution preseason camp which begins on January 30.

- From the media reports out there, your performance at the MLS Combine was widely noticed and highly regarded. Did you personally feel like you had a strong combine?

A: I felt extremely fit going into the Combine and knew that if I relaxed and played my game I would perform well. I wouldn't say my performance was spectacular but I think I was able to play in such a well as to show my strengths. I am pleased that people noticed my play and proud to now be a part of the New England Revolution.

- What are your thoughts on Steve Nicol? Did you speak with him either at the MLS Combine or at the MLS SuperDraft?

A: I think Steve Nicol is a tremendous coach. New England is consistently atop the table in MLS and contending for trophies both the US Open and MLS Cup. His record at New England speaks for itself. We spoke briefly immediately after the SuperDraft. I am excited to play for both Steve Nicol and Paul Mariner as both had illustrious playing careers at the highest levels of the game in England and at the international level and I look forward to learning from both of them.

- New England has a great fan/supporter following. Have you heard anything about groups such as The Midnight Riders and are you looking forward to interacting with the passionate New England fan base?

A: I have heard about the New England fan support. I look forward to interacting with them more as I get more involved with the team. Supporters' groups add so much to the excitement and atmosphere at games. We at New England are lucky and hopefully we will give them much to cheer about in the upcoming season.

- What are your goals for the 2008 season?

A: My goal for the year is very simple. I want to find my role on this team and play it out to the best of my ability whatever that role becomes. I think it goes without saying that every competitive athlete wants to be a starter and contribute to the first team right away, but that is much easier said than done especially at an established club like New England. I think the first year in MLS is more about learning the ropes and staying mentally and physically prepared to contribute knowing it's a long season and that it's important to be ready to seize any opportunity that comes along.